German Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever
What are the differences and similarities between German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers? While German Shepherds and Labradors are close in size, German Shepherds are a bit heavier on average than Labrador Retrievers and are taller as well. Although German Shepherds and Labradors make good companion dogs, these breeds were developed with very different purposes. German Shepherds had the original purpose as herding and guarding dogs. Labrador Retrievers, in comparison, were developed for the purpose of retrieving game. Potential owners of German Shepherds or Labrador Retrievers will notice a significant difference in temperaments of these popular breeds. German Shepherds are strong working dogs, very alert and intelligent. GSDs are protective of their owners and make good watchdogs.
In comparison, Labradors are reliable family dogs, good-natured and sociable. German Shepherds and Labradors are easily trainable and impressively intelligent breeds.
Labrador Retriever German Shepherd Mix
German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever cross size can reach up to 26 inches in height and up to 88 pounds in weight. Lab and GSD mix dogs may have an array of different color combinations because Labradors can have three different colors and German Shepherds can also have a variety of color combinations. Half German Shepherd half Labrador Retriever dogs have a temperament that may resemble one of the parents. These dogs are alert, easy to train and in the right hands can be trained to a high standard.
Image of Labrador Retriever and German Shepherd mix.
German Shepherd versus Labrador Retriever: Grooming
Large breeds with double coat such as German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever require daily brushing to remove the dead hair. Brush the dog's teeth once a day with a canine toothpaste, starting at a young age. Puppies are more flexible when it comes to learning to accept grooming procedures such as teeth getting brushed. GSDs and Labs need their nails trimmed once every six weeks. Bathe the dog once every six weeks to two months or as necessary. Only use a canine shampoo for bathing your pet. Rinse the shampoo well to prevent skin dryness. Always wipe the ears after bathing with a dry towel to prevent ear infections.
Lab vs German Shepherd: Lifespan
Labrador Retrievers have a live expectancy of 12 to 13 years on average, while German Shepherds have a life span of 9 to 12 years. Labs have a longer life expectancy than German Shepherds. A dog's livestyle, diet, genetics and care all affect a dog's life expectancy. Can German Shepherds or Labs live longer? Owners of German Shepherds or Labradors can find reputable breeders whose dogs are healthier and are known for their longevity.
Labrador Retriever vs German Shepherd: size comparison
When comparing sizes of German Shepherds and Labradors, notice that German Shepherds are slightly taller than Labrador Retrievers.
Labrador retriever male weight: 27 to 40 kg (60 to 88 lb)
German Shepherd male weight: 30 to 40 kg (66 to 88 lb)
Labrador retriever male height: 56 to 63 cm (22 to 25 in)
German Shepherd male height: 60 to 65 cm (24 to 26 in)
Labrador Retrievers vs German Shepherds: Shedding
Both, Labradors and German Shepherds are known for abundant shedding. Owners of these breeds can successfully manage either breed's shedding by using tools such as furminator for large breeds such as German Shepherds or Labs. Furminator deshedding tool needs to be used regularly and it successfully helps to keep the dog's shedding under control.
German Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever: Price
While many factors affect a price per German Shepherd or Labrador Retriever dog, Labrador Retriever cost starts at $300 while a German Shepherd cost starts at $600. German Shepherd dogs tend to be pricier than Labs.
Labrador Retriever vs German Shepherd: Temperament
There's a significant difference in temperaments when comparing German Shepherd to Labrador Retriever. German Shepherds are more intense and these high energy dogs need a job to do during the day. German Shepherds are alert and make good guard dogs because of the protective nature of the breed. Labrador Retrievers are also very active dogs. In comparison to German Shepherds, Labs are not typically used as guard dogs. Labradors are playful and sociable and make great family dogs, while German Shepherds are essentially working dogs that need a job to do during the day to stay physically and mentally in best shape.
Labs compared to GSD: Country of breed origin
German Shepherds were developed in Germany.
Labrador Retrievers come from the Canadian island Newfoundland.
Good with kids: Labrador Retriever vs German Shepherd
Although both breeds can be good with kids, Labradors are more appropriate as family pets than German Shepherds. German Shepherd breed is more intense, and need a purposeful life, while Labs have a friendly, non-aggressive temperament that ideally fits into a family environment.
German Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever: Companion dogs
German Shepherds and Labradors make great companion dogs for owners who have the time and energy to dedicate to the animal companion. German Shepherds are more appropriate for active owners who can provide the dog with the necessary training and can keep their pet busy during the day. Labrador Retrievers are the ultimate companion dogs that also deserve to get the proper training and plenty of mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis. Both breeds are active and not suited for a couch potato owner. These dogs need daily long walks and lots of time with the owners every day.
These large companion breeds prefer a country or suburban life where there's enough space for the dog, including a good size yard where the dog can exercise. Energetic Labs and German Shepherds aren't ideal for apartment life.
Good with other dogs: Labradors vs German Shepherds
Early socialization around other dogs and pets is necessary for both, German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers. Labradors are generally friendly and get along with other dogs. German Shepherds need more careful introductions to other dogs.
German Shepherd vs Labrador: Intelligence
German Shepherds as well as Labrador Retrievers are highly intelligent breeds that require plenty of mental stimulation during the day. Keep either a Labrador or German Shepherd busy by providing the dog with interactive toys starting during puppyhood to stimulate your pet's mind.
Labrador Retriever versus German Shepherd: Trainability
Both breeds respond well to training and can quickly learn new commands. Labs and GSDs are highly suitable for advanced training disciplines such as agility or competitive obedience. Labrador Retrievers are eager to learn and are often trained to be superb guide dogs. German Shepherds can be trained to a high standard and are often employed in law enforcement, search and rescue teams and other important jobs.
German Shepherd versus Labrador Retriever: Barking
Labradors bark more on average than German Shepherds. German Shepherds tend to bark when left alone with nothing to do. This breed is not meant to be locked in an apartment all day long while the owners are at work. German Shepherds are essentially working dogs that need to have a meaningful life, otherwise psychological issues may occur and excessive barking is one of the side effects of a lonely and boring existence. German Shepherds require an owner who spends most of the time with this intelligent breed, keeping the dog physically and mentally active. Labradors also need human companionship and a healthy energy outlet. Leaving either of these breeds home alone for hours on end will lead to excessive barking.
Lab vs German Shepherd: Exercise needs
These large breeds need a good amount of daily exercises that include running, walking, playing and getting trained. German Shepherds are even more active than Labradors, but both breeds require a healthy energy outlet every day. Labradors have a tendency to get lazy and in combination with good appetite Labradors can quickly turn into obese dogs. To avoid various health issues it is important to provide either of these two breeds with daily exercise, long walks and a healthy lifestyle.
Health issues: German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers compared
The health related similarities between German Shepherds and Labrador retrievers include predisposition to joint issues in both of these large breeds. Various eye problems are also common for German Shepherds as well as Labradors.
German Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever: Dog behavior issues
Behavior problems in dogs often stem from lack of mental and physical stimulation. Leaving a German Shepherd or a Labrador Retriever alone frequently with nothing to do will lead to boredom that eventually will turn into a psychological issue. Behavior problems often result from the dog's attempt to keep himself busy while the owner is away and there's nothing else left to do. To minimize the possibility of developing behavior problems always tire out your dog by giving him a long walk before leaving the dog alone for some time. Also leave something for the dog to do while you are away.
A chewable toy or a treat dispenser toy goes a long way and gives your dog something to do while the dog is waiting for the owner.
German Shepherd compared to Labrador Retriever: Popularity
Labrador Retriever is the number one most popular dog breed in the United States according to AKC. German Shepherd dogs are not far away and take the second place in popularity in the United States.
Difference between GSD and Labrador Retriever: Loyalty to the owner
Loyal and intelligent German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are happiest when spending time with their families.
Labradors and German Shepherds compared: apartment dogs
German Shepherds and Labradors are more suitable for a life in a home with a big fenced yard, where the dog can spend some energy during the day. Living in an apartment is not ideal for either of these two breeds.
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