German Shepherd vs Skye Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Alsatian or the Fancy Skye Terrier?

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

the Fancy Skye Terrier, Silky Skye Terrier, Glasgow Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, Isle of Skye Terrier

Weight

What is the average weight of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

77.5 pounds ( 35 kg )

40.0 pounds ( 18 kg )

Height

What is the average height of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

10.0 inches ( 25.4 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: German Shepherd or Skye Terrier?

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

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

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shepherds or Skye Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither German Shepherd nor Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terrier dogs?

Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Obedient
Confident
Curious
Loyal
Watchful

Loyal
Friendly
Good-natured
Tempered
Fearless
Intelligent

Shedding Level

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

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

Skye Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

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

The German Shepherd and Skye Terrier dogs are some of the best choices if you want good watchdogs. These breeds will keep watch over you and your family at all times. They take this task seriously and will typically perform their guarding duty with little to no training. These dogs will require obedience training, or you can consider guard dog training to sharpen their skills.

Origin

What is the origin of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier dog breeds?

Germany

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier breeds?

Shepherding Dog, Wolf-type Dog

terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

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 Skye Terrier breeds first developed?

1800s

1500s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

Herding (AKC:1908, UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1887 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
Gray
Red
Silver
Sable
Fawn

Black
Gray
Cream
Fawn
Blue
Silver
Sable

Coat Length

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

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

Skye Terriers are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

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.

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Skye Terrier can have a litter of 12-14 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 Skye Terriers 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 Skye Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The German Shepherd and Skye Terrier breeds are commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

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

Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Hepatitis
Occipital Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

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

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

Lens Luxation
Tracheal Collapse
Atopic Dermatitis

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for German Shepherd and Skye Terrier breeds?

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

Eye
Blood Test
Skeletal
Skin Scraping
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of German Shepherds and Skye Terriers compare?

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

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

Social Needs

German Shepherd vs Skye Terrier social needs comparison

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

Skye Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

German Shepherd vs Skye Terrier exercise need comparison.

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

Skye Terriers need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

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

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

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

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, German Shepherd or Skye Terrier?

The German Shepherd and Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terriers bark more/less frequently?

Compared to most other breeds, German Shepherd and Skye Terrier tend to be less vocal and bark less frequently. They typically only bark when necessary, such as to communicate or alert their owner, and do not bark excessively, especially when left alone.

Territorial

Is the German Shepherd or Skye Terrier 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.

Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terrier?

Roaming urge

German Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, German Shepherds or Skye Terriers?

Medium

Both German Shepherd and Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terrier 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.

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Skye Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do German Shepherds or Skye Terriers require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both German Shepherd and Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terriers?

German Shepherd and Skye Terrier are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

German Shepherd and Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terriers?

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to German Shepherd or Skye Terrier 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 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terrier?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

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

$1.40 - $1.80 / day

The average cost of a Skye Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$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.

$42 - $53 / month

The average per month expenses of a Skye Terrier is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 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 Skye Terriers

German Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

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

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shepherd and Skye Terrier compare in sensitivity?

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

Skye Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

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

Apartment Friendly

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

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

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

Child Friendly

Do German Shepherds or Skye Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

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

Skye Terriers have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

Do German Shepherd or Skye Terrier 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.

Skye Terriers are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

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

German Shepherds and Skye Terriers are below average dog friendly dogs. German Shepherds and Skye Terriers may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with.

Pet friendly

How do German Shepherd or Skye Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

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

Skye Terriers are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between German Shepherd and Skye Terrier?

German Shepherd and Skye Terrier 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 Skye Terriers compare?

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