German Shepherd vs Dutch Shepherd

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.

Just as you wouldn’t expect a Havanese to be a fierce watchdog, the Dutch Shepherd temperament isn’t all cuddles and snuggles—but that doesn’t mean they aren’t affectionate! These dogs are faithful pets and people-pleasers who are happiest right by your side, and while they’re active and highly motivated, they’re also happy to lounge by your feet when the day is done.

Dutch Shepherds live to work, but they’re good at knowing when it’s quittin’ time, too. When the job is done, they’ll settle down and recharge (and will let you do the same). Their intelligence, endurance and go-to-the-ends-of-the-earth-for-you loyalty make them both great pets and a top-notch working dog (aka a dog bred to perform a job). There’s a reason they’re a preferred breed for the police and military, and why you’ll often see them as service dogs. Dutch Shepherds can put blinders on to focus on the job at hand and won’t rest until it’s done—and you better believe it will be done right.

At the same time, they can switch gears in the blink of an eye. Their stoic, no-nonsense mugs belie the friendly, faithful and playful dog they are; these pups are great playmates for kids! They aren’t naturally aggressive, but they will keep strangers at bay. If they aren’t working, Dutchies are happiest when they are with their family, and they hate to be left out. When they’re alone for too long, they are sure to get bored and lonely, and undesirable behaviors (like chewing your shoes) may pop up. Keep a Dutch Shepherd busy, give them lots of affection, and you’ll be besties for life.