Have you ever heard someone call other dogs German Shepherds, even if they are not? We are, at least a hundred times… Is it that hard to distinguish a German Shepherd from other dog breeds? People unfamiliar with this dog breed can easily make this mistake.
Plenty of dog breeds bear an uncanny resemblance to the classic German Shepherd. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion or a pup who looks like your favorite breed, one of these doggy “twins” may be perfect! From their colorings and markings to their size and shape, these ten dogs share some common traits with the iconic GSD.
Read on to learn more about each unique breed and find out which one is right for your family!
How to recognize a German Shepherd Dog?
Recognizing a German Shepherd dog (GSD, aka. Alsatian dog) is fairly simple when you know what to look for. The GSD's physical appearance is unmistakable; they have a strong, muscular body, long tail, strong jaw, and erect ears with intelligent facial expressions. Their most recognizable feature is their striking color, ranging from a light tan to deep mahogany.
German Shepherds are known for their alert and intelligent nature, making them excellent guard dogs and companions. They are incredibly loyal and protective of their owners and will go to great lengths to keep them safe. German Shepherds also have strong working drives and can easily be trained to do various tasks.
The breed is highly trainable and makes an excellent choice for those looking for a loyal and active companion.
German Shepherds can also be very friendly dogs with the proper socialization training. They have a strong protective instinct but can be gentle and loving when properly trained.
Not only are they exceptionally smart, but these four-legged friends also form bond connections with their owners in no time. Loyal and loving, German Shepherds make amazing companions that bring us immense joy.
German Shepherds are very trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement. These canines make excellent family pets with proper training, socialization, and exercise.
Now, let’s look at some of the most popular dog breeds that share similar characteristics and look like German Shepherds. We'll start with the most obvious one; Belgian Malinois.
1. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois (aka. Belgian Shepherd) is a dog breed that looks similar to German Shepherds. They have strong, muscular bodies, long tails, and erect ears with intelligent expressions. Their coloring ranges from light tan to deep mahogany.
Belgian Malinois make good family pets with enough exercise, training, and socialization. These dogs are alert and intelligent, making them good guard dogs and loyal companions. They can be trained to do different tasks and need socialization training to be friendly with people.
But be careful. Believe it or not, some dog breeds have more energy than German Shepherds, including the Belgian Malinois.
Belgian Malinois isn't an ordinary pet. They're working dogs, and you need to invest a lot of time to burn out all the energy that they have.
Why do people think that Belgian Malinois is a German Shepherd?
People think that Belgian Malinois is a German Shepherd because they share many similar physical characteristics. They both have strong bodies and erect ears, with intelligent facial expressions. They also both have coloring ranging from light tan to deep mahogany. Their sizes are also fairly similar, and both breeds tend to be loyal and protective of their owners.
All these qualities can make it difficult to tell the difference between the breeds unless you know what to look for.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Smart
- Confident
- Hardworking
How can you recognize a Belgian Malinois from a German Shepherd?
- Belgian Malinois have a shorter coat
- Belgian Malinois is a higher energetic dog
- German Shepherd is a larger dog (for 10-15% approximately)
| German Shepherd | Belgian Malinois | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 2-4 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | 36th place |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | 22nd place |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 20-30 kg (44-66 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Smooth |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Short |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 10-14 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $500-1,800 |
2. White Swiss Shepherd
The White Swiss Shepherd (aka. Berger Blanc Suisse) is a rare (not that popular) breed of dog that originated in Switzerland and is closely related to the German Shepherd. These medium-sized dogs have a white double coat that gives them a beautiful, regal look. The fur is thick and soft, usually from light cream to almost silver colors.
White Swiss Shepherds are known to be intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs that make great companions. They are eager to please and will take well to obedience training. The White Swiss Shepherds is a high-energy dog breed and need plenty of exercise, including long daily walks and trips to the dog park.
Why do people think that White Swiss Shepherd is a German Shepherd?
People often confuse the White Swiss Shepherd with the German Shepherd because of their similar physical characteristics and behavior. They are both large-sized dogs with white double coats and have an affectionate, loyal temperament. They are both highly intelligent breeds that respond well to training and require a lot of exercises.
This similarity in appearance and temperament is likely why people mistakenly think they are the same breed because most people will think that White Swiss Shepherd is a White German Shepherd.
Related blog post: Different types of German Shepherd dogs
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Intelligent
- Confidence
- Courage
How can you recognize a White Swiss Shepherd from a German Shepherd?
- White Swiss Shepherd is a smaller dog breed
- There is no different coat color of White Swiss Shepherd, only white
- Their eyes are generally darker when compared to German Shepherd
| German Shepherd | White Swiss Shepherd | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | Unknown |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | Unknown |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 25-40 kg (55-88 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium & Long |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 4 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 10-14 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $1,000-3,000 |
3. Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren is a breed of dog from the herding group that hails from Belgium. Also known as the Chien de Berger Belge, these intelligent canines were developed in the villages of Groenendael and Tervuren, hence the breed's name. It is one of four distinct varieties of Belgian Sheepdogs, along with the Malinois, Laekenois, and Groenendael.
The Belgian Tervuren is a medium-sized dog that stands between 21 and 26 inches tall and weighs around 50 to 65 pounds. It has a square body shape and a strong bone structure. The breed's double coat consists of a short undercoat and a long, straight outer coat that is usually fawn to mahogany in color and has a black overlay.
The Belgian Tervuren is an intelligent, loyal breed with natural working ability. It is alert and eager to please its owners. The breed is known for its high energy level and strong herding instincts, so it needs plenty of physical and mental exercise.
It is also highly trainable, but its independent streak can sometimes make it challenging. With the right leadership, however, they are a loving and devoted companion. They thrive as part of an active family that will provide them with plenty of daily stimulation.
Why do people think that Belgian Tervuren is a German Shepherd?
The German Shepherd (GSD) looks almost the same as a Belgian Tervuren. The two breeds have similar body shapes and double coats. This similarity can confuse, leading to people incorrectly calling a Tervuren a GSD.
However, there are some key differences between the two.
German Shepherds usually have tan or black coats with distinct markings, while Belgian Tervurens come in shades of fawn and mahogany with a black overlay. Another difference is that while the GSD has sloping shoulders and a more angulated head, the Tervuren's shoulder line is straight, and its head appears narrower.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Intelligent
- Courageous
- Alert
How can you recognize a Belgian Tervuren from a German Shepherd?
- In most cases, Belgian Tervuren has a longer coat
- Belgian Tervuren is more energetic than the German Shepherd
- The German Shepherd is larger and heavier than a Belgian Tervuren
- German Shepherds can be more intelligent than Belgian Tervurens
| German Shepherd | Belgian Tervuren | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | 103rd place |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | 14th place |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 20-35 kg (45-75 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 12-14 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $700-1,500 |
4. Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)
The Groenendael dog breed, also known as the Belgian Sheepdog, is a highly intelligent and loyal animal. It is a medium-sized herding dog with a long, thick coat that comes in black with occasional white markings. They have pointed, upright ears and alert expressions on their faces.
The Groenendael is known for its strong herding instincts and can be trained to herd other animals, such as sheep. It also makes a great guard dog since it is highly alert and protective of its owner's space. This breed does need plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy, so daily walks or jogs with the owner are recommended, or even giving a job to this dog breed.
Groenendaels are sensitive and responsive to their owners, making them easy to train. Many dog trainers believe this dog is the most obedient of all Belgian herding breeds. Groenendaels have a high level of intelligence that allows them to learn quickly and be very attentive to commands.
Why do people think that Groenendael is a German Shepherd?
This dog breed has a very similar body shape to the German Shepherd. Most people think Groenendael is the same dog as the black-coat German Shepherd. Their body shape and size are almost the same, and the main difference between these two dog breeds is their look and behavior.
While the German Shepherd is known for its alert and protective personality, the Groenendael is more loyal and obedient.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Intelligence
- Confidence
- Courage
How can you recognize a Groenendael from a German Shepherd?
- Groenendael is a more friendly dog breed
- German Shepherd is a larger dog breed and heavier dog breed
- Unlike German Shepherds, Groenendael has a low tendency to bark
| German Shepherd | Belgian Sheepdog | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | 129th place |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | 15th place |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 20-35 kg (45-75 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 12-14 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $600-1,800 |
5. Byelorussian Shepherd (East European Shepherd)
The East European Shepherd, also known as the Byelorussian Shepherd, is a breed of large sheepdog that originated in Eastern Europe. They are large and powerful, with an impressive athletic build. The breed boasts a thick double coat that offers protection from the elements and can be found in several colors, including white, black/tan, and brown.
Their head is broad and wedge-shaped, with a strong muzzle and dark, almond-shaped eyes. East European Shepherds have an intelligent, watchful expression that makes them excellent guard dogs.
East European Shepherds are known for their loyalty and courage. They are devoted to their families and can be extremely protective when needed. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train for various tasks. With the right guidance and education, they can become wonderful companions.
Why do people think that an East European Shepherd is a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds and East Europe Shepherd are basically “twins”. East Europe Shepherd was developed by selectively breeding from the old-style German Shepherd lines to local dogs, reportedly including Ovcharkas and Laikas, to produce a larger dog capable of performing in and withstanding some of the harshest environments of the former USSR. Their body shape is identical, only in this case, the German Shepherd has a smaller body.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Intelligence
- Power
- Courage
How can you recognize an East European Shepherd from a German Shepherd?
- German Shepherd is a more friendly dog breed
- German Shepherd is a more intelligent dog breed
- East European Shepherd is not the most dog-friendly dog
- East European Shepherd is larger and heavier than German Shepherd
| German Shepherd | East European Shepherd | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | Unknown |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | Unknown |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 61-71cm (24-28 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 34-47 kg (75-105 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 10-12 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $700-1,500 |
6. Shiloh Shepherd
Shiloh Shepherds are a relatively new hybrid breed of dog loved for their intelligence and loyal personalities. Developed from the German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute, this breed has quickly become one of the most popular breeds in America.
With Shiloh Shepherds, you can expect a very active and inquisitive dog that loves to be around its owners. A large breed, these dogs need plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They are generally good with children and other pets as long as they have been properly socialized from an early age.
Shiloh Shepherds have thick double coats in various colors, including shades of black with tan, golden tan, reddish tan, silver, and cream. These coats require regular brushing at least once or twice a week to prevent tangles, which can be difficult to remove due to the thickness of their fur.
Overall, Shiloh Shepherds are excellent companion animals that make loyal family pets. They thrive in active households and need plenty of exercise and attention from their owners.
Why do people think that Shiloh Shepherd is a German Shepherd?
Shiloh Shepherd has a very similar dog coat color (in some cases), identical body shape, and long hair. People know that the German Shepherd is a “big dog” and often, they can’t make a difference between these two dog breeds. This dog breed also has pointed ears and a nose like a German Shepherd.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Intelligence
- Confidence
- Very friendly
How can you recognize a Shiloh Shepherd for a German Shepherd?
- Shiloh Shepherd is a less energetic dog
- Shiloh Shepherd is larger and heavier than a German Shepherd dog
- Shiloh Shepherd is a more friendly dog
| German Shepherd | Shiloh Shepherd | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 1-2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | Unknown |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | Unknown |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 66-81cm (26-32 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 40-58 kg (90-130 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium & Long |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 4 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 9-14 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $1,000-2,000 |
7. Bohemian Shepherd
The Bohemian Shepherd, also known as the Chodský pes, is a medium-sized dog that originated in the Czech Republic. It’s an ancient breed, bred for hundreds of years as a versatile hunting and guarding dog. The Bohemian Shepherd is an active, loyal, and intelligent breed that is highly trainable and well-suited for various activities, from obedience to agility.
They are excellent family companions and can do well as therapy dogs due to their calm and gentle nature.
These dogs have an unmistakable appearance, with a thick double coat that ranges in color from black and tan to grey or brown. Their long, triangular ears and deep chest add to their distinctive looks. Bohemian Shepherds are highly active dogs that love outdoor activities like long walks, hikes, and agility trials.
Why do people think that Bohemian Shepherd is a German Shepherd?
This dog breed also has a similar coat color as most German Shepherds, black & tan. When you compare a German Shepherd to a Bohemian Shepherd, you will notice that a German Shepherd is a bigger dog breed, but because of so much similarity between those dog breeds, sometimes it’s really hard to make a difference.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Friendly
- Devoted
- Intelligent.
How can you recognize a Shiloh Shepherd for a German Shepherd?
- German Shepherd is larger and heavier than Bohemian Shepherd
- German Shepherd is a more intelligent dog breed
- Bohemian Shepherd is a more friendly dog breed
| German Shepherd | Bohemian Shepherd | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 1-2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | Unknown |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | Unknown |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 50-55cm (19.3-21.7 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 17-27 kg (37-60 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double, Wavy |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 12-15 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $600-1,500 |
8. American Alsatian
The American Alsatian is a rare, large-gauge dog breed originating in the United States. While any major kennel club does not recognize the breed, the American Alsatian Breeders Association (AABA) has worked to standardize the breed and promote responsible ownership.
The American Alsatian is a strong, muscular dog with a large head and prominent ears. They typically stand between 24-29 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 80-120 pounds.
The breed’s intelligence and calm demeanor make them a great choice for family pets. They are loyal and protective of their owners yet gentle and loving with children. American Alsatians are active in the home but can also be independent thinkers.
Why do people think that an American Alsatian is a German Shepherd?
Sometimes can be hard to make a difference between these two dog breeds. Seriously. These two dog breeds are almost identical. American Alsatian has the same body structure, almost the same dimensions, head shape, pointed nose, and ears, and some of them have the same coat color as a German Shepherd dog.
The major difference between these two dog breeds is size and coat color. American Alsatian is a bigger dog breed with mostly gray-black fur.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Friendly
- Lively
- Intelligence
How can you recognize an American Alsatian from a German Shepherd?
- American Alsatian is large and heavier than German Shepherd dogs
- American Alsatians have a lower energy level
- German Shepherds is a more intelligent dog
| German Shepherd | American Alsatian | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 1-2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | Unknown |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | Unknown |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 61-71cm (24-28 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 34-54 kg (75-120 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium & Long |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 9-13 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $1,200-2,500 |
9. Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd is a breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands, where it was originally used to guard and herd livestock. This breed is a medium size, strong-boned dog with an athletic build and high-energy level.
They have a reputation for being strong-willed, independent, loyal, and devoted to their owners. The Dutch Shepherd is an intelligent breed that excels at obedience, agility, and tracking.
They are brave and versatile dogs that can be used for various purposes, such as search and rescue, police work, guarding, herding, and family companions. They are strong and muscular dogs with short but dense coat that comes in solid colors of brindle or fawn.
The Dutch Shepherd is a very social breed that loves to be around people. They like to stay connected with their owners and are very loyal to them. This breed is not for everyone, as they require consistent training and socialization from a young age.
Why do people think that Dutch Shepherd is a German Shepherd?
The main reason why people think that Dutch Shepherd is a German Shepherd is because of the very similar body structure of these two dog breeds. They have pointed ears, noses, and long tails, but in this case, the Dutch Shepherd has a different dog coat from the German Shepherd.
The hair of a Dutch Shepherd is significantly shorter than the coat hair of a German Shepherd dog. Also, their coat color is different.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Lively
- Athletic
- Intelligent
How can you recognize a Dutch Shepherd for a German Shepherd?
- German Shepherd is large and heavier than Dutch Shepherd
- German Shepherd is usually a more protective dog
- Dutch Shepherd is more independent
| German Shepherd | Dutch Shepherd | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | Unknown |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | Unknown |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 53-63 cm (21-25 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 19-34 kg (42-75 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Short |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 11-14 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $800-3,000 |
10. King Shepherd
King Shepherd is a majestic and noble breed of dog developed in the 1990s in the United States. It combines the best features of German Shepherds, Shiloh Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, Great Pyrenees, and other breeds. The result is an incredibly beautiful dog with all the best qualities of these breeds.
King Shepherds are known for their strength, intelligence, loyalty, and calmness. They are also large dogs that weigh between 90-150 pounds when fully grown.
King Shepherds make excellent family pets and protectors due to their loyal nature and strong guarding instincts. In addition, they can also be trained in agility, herding, and other activities. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training.
King Shepherds require a lot of exercises and mental stimulation, so they are best suited for an active family that can provide them with plenty of opportunities to run around and explore.
King Shepherd is still isn't recognized by the majority of kennel clubs. Instead, King Shepherds are considered hybrid dogs.
Unique talents of dog breeds that look like a German Shepherd
In the world of dogs, the German Shepherd stands out for its versatility and intelligence. However, several other breeds share a striking resemblance to this iconic dog, each with their own unique set of talents and abilities.
In this section, we'll explore the distinctive skills and specialized roles of ten breeds that look like German Shepherds. From the agile Belgian Malinois, known for their police work, to the serene American Alsatian, excellent as therapy dogs, each breed brings something special to the table.
Whether it's for service, companionship, or work, these breeds showcase a remarkable range of talents, reflecting their diverse backgrounds and specialized training!
Here's a detailed breakdown:
-
Belgian Malinois: Renowned for their exceptional work in police and military roles, Belgian Malinois excel in tasks that require agility, endurance, and intelligence. They are superb at obedience, tracking, and protection work, making them ideal for search and rescue operations and K9 units.
-
White Swiss Shepherd: Known for their gentle demeanor, White Swiss Shepherds excel in therapy and emotional support roles. They are intelligent and trainable, making them great at obedience and agility sports. Their calm nature also makes them excellent companions for children and the elderly.
-
Belgian Tervuren: This breed is versatile in herding and guarding, demonstrating high intelligence and trainability. Belgian Tervurens are often successful in dog sports like agility, obedience, and tracking, showcasing their energetic and alert nature.
-
Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael): They are excellent herders and also do well in protection and police work. Their intelligence and trainability make them strong competitors in obedience, agility, and tracking.
-
Byelorussian Shepherd (East European Shepherd): Bred for working in harsh climates, they are resilient and have strong guarding instincts. They excel in obedience and protection work, often used in guard and police roles due to their robustness and endurance.
-
Shiloh Shepherd: Known for their gentle temperament, Shiloh Shepherds are great therapy and service dogs. They possess a keen intelligence that makes them excellent at obedience and agility, coupled with a calm demeanor ideal for companionship and emotional support.
-
Bohemian Shepherd: Often used in search and rescue missions, they have a keen sense of smell and are agile, which also makes them great at agility and tracking sports. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable.
-
American Alsatian: These dogs are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them excellent therapy and service dogs. They have a patient temperament, ideal for working with individuals with disabilities or those needing emotional support.
-
Dutch Shepherd: Highly versatile, Dutch Shepherds excel in a variety of tasks including herding, agility, obedience, and protection work. Their athletic build and intelligence make them suitable for demanding activities like search and rescue operations.
- King Shepherd: These large dogs are known for their strength and gentle nature, making them suitable for roles in therapy and as service animals. They also excel in obedience and agility due to their intelligence and desire to work closely with their handlers.
Each of these breeds, while sharing some physical similarities with German Shepherds, possesses unique talents and characteristics, making them stand out in various specialized roles and activities.
Why do people think that King Shepherd is a German Shepherd?
The similarity between these two dog breeds is amazing. Some would say that King Shepherd is just a bigger German Shepherd, but the main difference between these two dog breeds is not in their look but in their behavior. They have the same coat color, and because of that, it's difficult to make a difference between these two dog breeds.
When you compare a German Shepherd and King Shepherd, you'll see that King Shepherd is also a bigger dog breed.
The main characteristics of this breed of dog are:
- Bravery
- Confidence
- Intelligence
How can you recognize a King Shepherd from a German Shepherd?
- King Shepherd is larger and heavier than German Shepherd
- German Shepherd is a more intelligent dog
- King Shepherd is a more friendly dog
| German Shepherd | King Shepherd | |
| Minimum daily active time | at least 2 hours | at least 1-2 hours |
| Popularity | 4th place | Unknown |
| Intelligence | 3rd place | Unknown |
| Height | 55-66cm (22-26 inch) | 64-79cm (25-31 inch) |
| Weight | 25-45 kg (55-100 lbs) | 34-68 kg (75-150 lbs) |
| Group | Herding | Herding |
| Coat type | Double | Double |
| Coat length | Medium & Long | Medium & Long |
| Shedding level (from 1 to 5) | 4 | 4 |
| Life span | 8-12 years | 8-12 years |
| Average price | $700-2,500 | $1,000-2,500 |
Final words
Are these only dog breeds that look like German Shepherds? Absolutely not. These were our top 10 dog breeds that look like a German Shepherd.
Although there are so many similarities between these dog breeds, each dog breed is unique and beautiful in its way.
The most important thing is to research before getting a dog and ensure that you know the breed well. Also, don't forget to ask yourself if this dog breed suits your lifestyle.
On the other hand, if you're reading this article to expand your knowledge, we hope we help you achieve that!
Frequently asked questions
Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here!
❓What dogs look like German Shepherds but white?
Some dog breeds that look like German Shepherds and have a white coat color are White Swiss Shepherd, Someyed, American Eskimo Dog, Hokkaido, and Keeshond (German Spitz).
❓What are the 5 types of German Shepherds?
German Shepherds have two main categories (bloodlines): working line and show line. Together in these two bloodlines, there are 5 different types of German Shepherds, and they are:
-East German Working Line
-West German Working Line
-Czech German Shepherd
-American/Canadian Show Line
-West German Show Line (European Show line)
❓Are there 2 types of German Shepherds?
There are 2 different types of German Shepherd bloodline; working bloodline and showing bloodline. Altogether, there are 5 different types of German Shepherds, not 2 types.
❓Is a Belgian Malinois the same as a German Shepherd
No, a Belgian Malinois dog isn't the same as a German Shepherd dog. Belgian Malinois is a smaller and lighter dog with a higher energy level than the German Shepherd. Although they look similar, the two breeds differ in their physical traits, temperaments, and abilities.
❓Why are Belgian Malinois replacing German Shepherds?
Over the last 10-15 years, Belgian Malinois started to replace German Shepherds in dog jobs. This is because this dog breed is healthier, can work longer, and this dog breed matures faster than a German Shepherd dog, which means that they can start working earlier.
❓Dogs that look like German Shepherds but smaller
The dog breed that looks like a German Shepherd but it's smaller is Corgis. We know this is maybe a funny comparison, but most people think this way. This dog breed has gained popularity fast because of Queen Elizabeth.
❓Dogs that look like German Shepherds but bigger
One of the most popular dog breeds that look like a German Shepherd and is bigger is American Alsatian. As we mention in this article, the American Alsatian is a rare, large-gauge dog originating in the United States. They're about 10-15% bigger than German Shepherds.
❓Dogs that look like long-haired German Shepherds
King Shepherd is the most popular dog breed that looks like a long-haired German Shepherd. This breed is a mix between German Shepherd and Shiloh Shepherd. They look like bigger versions of the German Shepherd, with their long-haired coats and majestic stature.
❓What calms a whining dog?
One of the best ways to calm a whining dog is to provide them with structure and routine in its daily life. Establishing a consistent feeding schedule and providing regular exercises, such as walks or playtime, can help keep them feeling secure and content.
Creating a designated area where your dog can feel safe when left alone also helps to reduce their anxiety levels. Additionally, showing them love and affection is key in calming a whining dog.
