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German Shepherd vs Boykin Spaniel Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Alsatian or Boykin?

Compare the German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Alsatian or a Boykin? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Schäferhund, Deutscher Schäferhund, Berger Allemand, Alsatian wolf dog (UK), Alsatian
LBD (Little Brown Dog), Boykin, Swamp Poodle

Weight

What is the average weight of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?
77.5 pounds ( 35 kg )
35.0 pounds ( 16 kg )

Height

What is the average height of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel
25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )
16.5 inches ( 41.9 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

German Shepherd has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Boykin Spaniel has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shepherds or Boykin Spaniels hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither German Shepherd nor Boykin Spaniel are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel dogs?
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Obedient
Confident
Curious
Loyal
Watchful

Companionable
Energetic
Intelligent
Eager
Friendly
Trainable

Shedding Level

Do German Shepherds shed more than Boykin Spaniels, or which breed sheds more, German Shepherds or Boykin Spaniels?

German Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Boykin Spaniels are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

Choose a German Shepherd if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Boykin Spaniels are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel dog breeds?
Germany

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds?
Shepherding Dog, Wolf-type Dog

Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Springer, Cocker and American Water Spaniel, Pointer

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
German Shepherd Dog Club Of America

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
National Kennel Club
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
United Kennel Club
American Canine Association, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds first developed?
1800s

1900s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?
Herding (AKC:1908, UKC)

Sporting (AKC:2009)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?
Black

Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds?
Black
Gray
Red
Silver
Sable
Fawn

Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds?

German Shepherds have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Boykin Spaniels have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?
Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?

10-13 puppies per pregnancy

A German Shepherd can have a litter of 10-13 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

14-16 puppies per pregnancy

A Boykin Spaniel can have a litter of 14-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniels are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel, which breed is more prone to health problems?

German Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

While the Boykin Spaniel breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds?
Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Exercise Induced Collapse

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?
Panosteitis
Pannus
Perianal Fistulas
Hemophilia
Von Willebrand's Disease
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Elbow Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Cataracts
Corneal Opacities
Collie Eye Anomaly
Persistent Pupillary Membrane

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds?
Cardiac
Hip
Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Knee
Eyes
Hips
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of German Shepherds and Boykin Spaniels compare?

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

German Shepherd vs Boykin Spaniel social needs comparison

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

German Shepherd vs Boykin Spaniel exercise need comparison.

German Shepherds require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Boykin Spaniels need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

The German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do German Shepherds or Boykin Spaniels bark more/less frequently?

German Shepherd dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Boykin Spaniels bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel a better guard dog?

German Shepherd dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

While Boykin Spaniel dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: German Shepherd vs Boykin Spaniel?

Roaming urge

German Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel entertained?
Tug-of-war, Walks, Fetch, Hike, Walk, Catch treats, Running, Frisbee, Mind games, Walking, Sniffing, Petting, Run, Nap, Hunt, Tracking, Hide & Seek, Head scratches, Go to Park, Playdate, Dog Parks, Back scratches, Exploring, Playing outside, Cuddles, Nose work, Observing, Barking, Chase, Eating Snacks

Fetch, Eating Snacks, Smell

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, German Shepherds or Boykin Spaniels?

Medium

Both German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel walk each week?

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For German Shepherd, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Boykin Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do German Shepherds or Boykin Spaniels require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, German Shepherds or Boykin Spaniels?

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel dogs?

Weekly

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for German Shepherds and Boykin Spaniels?
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Dematter
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel in cups?

3 cups

For an average 65-90 pound (29 - 41 kg) German Shepherd feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.5 cups

For an average 30-40 pound (14 - 18 kg) Boykin Spaniel feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a German Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of a Boykin Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

$55 - $77 / month

The average per month expenses of a German Shepherd is between $55 - $77. This makes an average of $660 - $924 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of a Boykin Spaniel is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: German Shepherds vs Boykin Spaniels

German Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Boykin Spaniel has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: German Shepherd vs Boykin Spaniel?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

German Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Boykin Spaniels make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do German Shepherds or Boykin Spaniels have a friendlier temperament towards children?

German Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Boykin Spaniels are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

Cat Friendly

Do German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

German Shepherds and Boykin Spaniels are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

German Shepherds are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Boykin Spaniels are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: German Shepherd or Boykin Spaniel?

German Shepherds are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Boykin Spaniels are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel?

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of German Shepherds and Boykin Spaniels compare?

German Shepherd and Boykin Spaniel dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Common match-ups