Beauceron vs German Shepherd

This high-energy, intelligent dog loves to get out and adventure with an active family. As a friendly and regal pup, Beaucerons can adapt well to children if they’re socialized from the time they’re a puppy. To be extra safe with kids, you’ll want to set up playpens and baby gates and close doors when needed, since the dogs can be pretty strong. Plus, they’re herders, so they may try to herd smaller children. And of course, monitor their interactions when they’re together, to ensure everyone—dogs and tiny, young humans alike—respect each others’ boundaries.

Although they look intimidating, Beaucerons are not aggressive. When they do run up to people, it’s to greet them enthusiastically. However, Beaucerons can be trained to be effective guard dogs when needed.

Their high level of intelligence makes them easy to train, but those smarts can also lead them to feel stressed or anxious if they don’t get enough mental stimulation—and it also can mean they can be comedians and get into a lot of funny antics.

Beaucerons have a strong prey drive, so they may not be the best pet for homes with cats or small dogs. But early socialization can certainly help with other dogs and cats in the home. But even around other dogs, you’ll want to supervise them, since they can be a little bossy when they play.

Because of their intelligence, large size and high energy levels, they may not be the best choice for first-time pet parents. But experienced pet parents who have previous experience training dogs may find a Beauceron to be a loyal companion for life.

The German Shepherd’s best trait is their intense, unwavering loyalty to their families. (There’s a reason they make some of the best police dogs.) The fearless breed has also been known to put themselves in harm’s way before they let a family member get hurt.

Socialization and training are essential for German Shepherds, to teach them that most things in this world are nothing to fear (and nothing that poses a threat to their loved ones, either). Early social interactions with kids, babies and other animals is also important if you want your German Shepherd to be well-behaved around guests. (Remember to teach children how to interact appropriately with dogs, too.) With the proper education, this easy-to-train pup can be a great family dog.

German Shepherds are born talkers. They will bark when they’re bored, and they’ll bark to alert you if something isn’t quite right. But training and exercise can help curb a lippy pup and keep their barking to when you need it the most.

These dogs are incredibly smart, and they are at their best when they have a job to do, whether working as a police or military dog, doing tracking or search and rescue, serving as a guide dog or at home practicing scent work or solving puzzles for a treat. And when they’re with their family, German Shepherds will let their silly side show as they flip their toys in the air and roll around on their backs.