German Shepherd vs Pug Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Alsatian or Mops?

Compare the German Shepherd and Pug breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Alsatian or a Mops? 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

Dutch Bulldog, Dutch Mastiff, Carlin, Mini Mastiff, Mops, Chinese Pug

Weight

What is the average weight of German Shepherd and Pug?

77.5 pounds ( 35 kg )

15.5 pounds ( 7 kg )

Height

What is the average height of German Shepherd and Pug

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

11.5 inches ( 29.2 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: German Shepherd or Pug?

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

Pug tends to gain weight easily, needs increased exercise and playtime along with controlled food intake.

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shepherds or Pugs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither German Shepherd nor Pug 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 Pug dogs?

Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Obedient
Confident
Curious
Loyal
Watchful

Affectionate
Courageous
Intelligent
Going
Loyal
Cheerful
Gentle
Friendly
Playful

Shedding Level

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

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

Pugs are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

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

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.

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

Origin

What is the origin of German Shepherd and Pug dog breeds?

Germany

China

Ancestry

What are the origins of German Shepherd and Pug breeds?

Shepherding Dog, Wolf-type Dog

Pekingese, Bulldog, French Mastiff

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register German Shepherd and Pug?

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

Date of Birth

When were German Shepherd and Pug breeds first developed?

1800s

Ancient Times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of German Shepherd and Pug?

Herding (AKC:1908, UKC)

Toy (AKC:1885)
Companion breeds (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of German Shepherd and Pug dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shepherd and Pug?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
Gray
Red
Silver
Sable
Fawn

Black
Fawn

Coat Length

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

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

Pugs have short coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of German Shepherd and Pug?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of German Shepherd and Pug?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for German Shepherd and Pug?

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.

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Pug can have a litter of 12-15 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 Pugs 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 Pug, 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.

The Pug breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

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

Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Entropion
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Pug Dog Encephalitis
Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis

Minor Concerns

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

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

Allergies
Corneal Ulcer

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for German Shepherd and Pug breeds?

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

Eye
Blood Test
Liver Ultrasound
X-Rays
CT Scan
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

Energy

How do the energy levels of German Shepherds and Pugs compare?

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

Pugs are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

German Shepherd vs Pug social needs comparison

German Shepherd has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Pug has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

German Shepherd vs Pug exercise need comparison.

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

Pugs need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

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

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

Pugs have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, German Shepherd or Pug?

The German Shepherd and Pug 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 Pugs 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.

Pugs 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 Pug 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.

Pug dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: German Shepherd vs Pug?

Roaming urge

German Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep German Shepherd and Pug 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

Go to Park, Walk, Eating Snacks, Nap, Playdate, Tug-of-war, Fetch, People watching, Sleeping, Walking, Petting, Sitting, Chase, Run, Barking, Running, Dog park, Very slow, Sniffing, Swim, Smell, Snacks, Explore, Walks, Pets, Jumping, Treats, Resting, Slow walking, Peanut butter

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, German Shepherds or Pugs?

Medium

Both German Shepherd and Pug 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 Pug 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.

5 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pug, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do German Shepherds or Pugs 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.

40 minutes

In general most Pugs usually need at least 40 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 Pugs?

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

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

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

German Shepherd and Pug 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 Pugs?

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to German Shepherd or Pug 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.

1 cups

For an average 13-20 pound (6 - 9 kg) Pug feed 1 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 Pug?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

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

$1.40 - $1.70 / day

The average cost of a Pug is somewhere $1.40 - $1.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$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.

$35 - $50 / month

The average per month expenses of a Pug is between $35 - $50. This makes an average of $420 - $600 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 Pugs

German Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

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

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shepherd and Pug compare in sensitivity?

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

Pugs have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

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

Apartment Friendly

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

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

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

Child Friendly

Do German Shepherds or Pugs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

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

Pugs 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 Pug?

Cat Friendly

Do German Shepherd or Pug 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.

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

Dog Friendly

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

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

Pugs are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do German Shepherd or Pug dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

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

Pugs are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between German Shepherd and Pug?

German Shepherd and Pug 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 Pugs compare?

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

Pugs may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.