Boxer vs German Shepherd

With their muscular physique and dark eyes, Boxers might seem tough and serious. But don’t be fooled! The ability to make many two- and four-legged friends is one of the Boxer’s greatest strengths. Silly pups at heart, they’re like a kid in a dog’s body, which may explain why Boxers and kids get along so well. They’ll never cease to put a smile on your face with their clown-like antics. You can often catch them sitting with their rear legs out in front of them (like people) and rolling back into a lazy dog position. They’re also prone to zoomies and stopping on a dime to dole out sloppy, wet kisses. If your dream dog is athletic and affectionate, the Boxer’s for you.

Often described as being more human than dog, Boxers are known to be quite sensitive. They’ll work 24/7 to please their loved ones, but this desire to please means they can get their feelings hurt. (Sad puppy dog eyes warning!) Originally bred to serve as guard dogs, Boxers perform brilliantly as service, assistance and therapy dogs, and in roles such as drug detection and search-and-rescue. However, some Boxers may not get along well with dogs they don’t know and of the same sex.

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.