German Shepherd vs Norwegian Buhund Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Alsatian or Norwegian Sheepdog?

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

Differences only

Other names

Schäferhund, Deutscher Schäferhund, Berger Allemand, Alsatian wolf dog (UK), Alsatian

Norwegian Sheepdog, Norsk Buhund

Weight

What is the average weight of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

77.5 pounds ( 35 kg )

35.5 pounds ( 16 kg )

Height

What is the average height of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

18.0 inches ( 45.7 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund?

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

Norwegian Buhund has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shepherds or Norwegian Buhunds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither German Shepherd nor Norwegian Buhund 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 Norwegian Buhund dogs?

Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Obedient
Confident
Curious
Loyal
Watchful

Agile
Energetic
Funny
Loving
Courageous
Friendly

Shedding Level

Do German Shepherds shed more than Norwegian Buhunds, or which breed sheds more, German Shepherds or Norwegian Buhunds?

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

Norwegian Buhunds 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 Norwegian Buhund?

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.

Norwegian Buhunds make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund dog breeds?

Germany

Norway

Ancestry

What are the origins of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund breeds?

Shepherding Dog, Wolf-type Dog

Spitz-type

Date of Birth

When were German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund breeds first developed?

1800s

10th Century

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

Herding (AKC:1908, UKC)

Herding (AKC:2009)
Northern Breeds (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund breeds?

Black
Gray
Red
Silver
Sable
Fawn

Black
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund breeds?

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

Norwegian Buhunds have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

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.

13-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Norwegian Buhund can have a litter of 13-15 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 Norwegian Buhunds 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 Norwegian Buhund, 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.

Norwegian Buhunds are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

Panosteitis
Pannus
Perianal Fistulas
Hemophilia
Von Willebrand's Disease
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

None Known

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund breeds?

Cardiac
Hip
Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Hip And Eyes

Energy

How do the energy levels of German Shepherds and Norwegian Buhunds compare?

German Shepherds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Norwegian Buhunds' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

German Shepherd vs Norwegian Buhund social needs comparison

German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund 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 Norwegian Buhund exercise need comparison.

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

Norwegian Buhunds 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 Norwegian Buhund?

German Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Norwegian Buhunds sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund?

The German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund 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 Norwegian Buhunds 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.

Norwegian Buhund dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund 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 Norwegian Buhund 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 Norwegian Buhund?

Roaming urge

German Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund 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

Walk, Run, Catch treats, Play, Chase, Herding

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, German Shepherds or Norwegian Buhunds?

Medium

German Shepherds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Norwegian Buhunds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund 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.

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Norwegian Buhund, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do German Shepherds or Norwegian Buhunds require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most German Shepherds usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

90 minutes

In general most Norwegian Buhunds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, German Shepherds or Norwegian Buhunds?

The German Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

The Norwegian Buhund is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund dogs?

Weekly

German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund 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 Norwegian Buhunds?

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund 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.

2.6 cups

For an average 31-40 pound (14 - 18 kg) Norwegian Buhund feed 2.6 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 Norwegian Buhund?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

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

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Norwegian Buhund is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund?

$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.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Norwegian Buhund is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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 Norwegian Buhunds

German Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Norwegian Buhund has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund compare in sensitivity?

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

Norwegian Buhunds have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: German Shepherd vs Norwegian Buhund?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund?

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

Norwegian Buhunds can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do German Shepherds or Norwegian Buhunds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

Do German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

German Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Norwegian Buhunds are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund?

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

Norwegian Buhunds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: German Shepherd or Norwegian Buhund?

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

Norwegian Buhunds are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between German Shepherd and Norwegian Buhund?

German Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Norwegian Buhunds are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of German Shepherds and Norwegian Buhunds compare?

German Shepherds are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Norwegian Buhunds are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.