German Shepherd vs Siberian Husky

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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
12 to 14 years
Size:

Large

Maintenance Level:

High

Shed Level:

Very High

Best For

German Shepherds, intelligent and loyal, thrive on mental challenges and active engagement. With a strong work ethic, they make exceptional working dogs. The rewarding companionship of a German Shepherd is perfect for those seeking a...

German Shepherds, intelligent and loyal, thrive on mental challenges and active engagement. With a strong work ethic, they make exceptional working dogs. The rewarding companionship of a German Shepherd is perfect for those seeking a devoted and versatile pup.

German Shepherd Temperament

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. Socializ...

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.

German Shepherd Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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siberian husky running in snow

Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
12 to 14 years
Size:

Medium

Maintenance Level:

High

Shed Level:

High

Best For

Siberian Huskies are as energetic as they are strikingly beautiful. This independent breed needs firm training, as well as consistent exercise and mental stimulation. If you're looking for a loyal canine partner to join your...

Siberian Huskies are as energetic as they are strikingly beautiful. This independent breed needs firm training, as well as consistent exercise and mental stimulation. If you're looking for a loyal canine partner to join your active adventures, this might just be the breed for you.

Siberian Husky Temperament

Siberian Huskies, renowned for their friendliness and intelligence, are wonderful companions who thrive on social interaction. They have an inherent need to be surrounded by both humans and fellow canines, and express their sociable nature in unique ways: Many will “talk” to you using howls, growls and whimpers, which is...

Siberian Huskies, renowned for their friendliness and intelligence, are wonderful companions who thrive on social interaction. They have an inherent need to be surrounded by both humans and fellow canines, and express their sociable nature in unique ways: Many will “talk” to you using howls, growls and whimpers, which is an endearing part of their personality.

Their affability comes with two caveats:

  • Since they’re predisposed to welcoming strangers, they lack the traits of a typical guard dog. (Not a problem if you don’t need a guard dog!)
  • Siberian Huskies don’t enjoy long periods of isolation or contemplation. In such circumstances where they are stressed or bored, they may contemplate, and act on, destructive behaviors. If left in the backyard, Huskies are notorious for their escape attempts. Secure fencing is a must to prevent exploratory escapades.

Huskies are also strong-willed, a trait that may make training a bit of a challenge. They’re typically good around kids and other dogs, but they do have a high prey drive and may chase cats and small animals. However, with an experienced pup parent who can train and socialize them consistently, they can be a well-behaved family member.

MORE: Behavior Of Your Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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