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German Shepherd vs Westie-Laso Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Alsatian or West Highland Lhasa?

Compare the German Shepherd and Westie-Laso breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Alsatian or a West Highland Lhasa? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Schäferhund, Deutscher Schäferhund, Berger Allemand, Alsatian wolf dog (UK), Alsatian
West Highland Lhasa, Westi Lhaso

Weight

What is the average weight of German Shepherd and Westie-Laso?
77.5 pounds ( 35 kg )
17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

Height

What is the average height of German Shepherd and Westie-Laso
25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )
11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shepherds or Westie-Lasos hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither German Shepherd nor Westie-Laso 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 Westie-Laso dogs?
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Obedient
Confident
Curious
Loyal
Watchful

Playful
Independent
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Devoted
Lively
Steady
Spirited
Assertive

Shedding Level

Do German Shepherds shed more than Westie-Lasos, or which breed sheds more, German Shepherds or Westie-Lasos?

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

Westie-Lasos 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 Westie-Laso?

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.

Avoid Westie-Lasos as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Ancestry

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

West Highland White Terrier, Lhasa Apso

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register German Shepherd and Westie-Laso?
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

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were German Shepherd and Westie-Laso breeds first developed?
1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of German Shepherd and Westie-Laso dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shepherd and Westie-Laso?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for German Shepherd and Westie-Laso breeds?
Black
Gray
Red
Silver
Sable
Fawn

White
Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
Silver
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for German Shepherd and Westie-Laso breeds?

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

Westie-Lasos have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of German Shepherd and Westie-Laso?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of German Shepherd and Westie-Laso?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for German Shepherd and Westie-Laso?

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.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Westie-Laso can have a litter of 4-6 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 Westie-Lasos 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 Westie-Laso, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The German Shepherd and Westie-Laso 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 Westie-Laso breeds?
Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Sebaceous Adenitis
Urolithiasis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

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

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Atopic Dermatitis
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Occasional Tests

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

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Respiratory Tests
Skeletal Exam

Energy

How do the energy levels of German Shepherds and Westie-Lasos compare?

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

Westie-Lasos are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Social Needs

German Shepherd vs Westie-Laso social needs comparison

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

Westie-Laso has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

German Shepherd vs Westie-Laso exercise need comparison.

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

Westie-Lasos 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 Westie-Laso?

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

Westie-Lasos sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do German Shepherds or Westie-Lasos 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.

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

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: German Shepherd vs Westie-Laso?

Roaming urge

German Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep German Shepherd and Westie-Laso 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

Road trip, Tug-of-war, Walk

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, German Shepherds or Westie-Lasos?

Medium

Both German Shepherd and Westie-Laso 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 Westie-Laso 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 Westie-Laso, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do German Shepherds or Westie-Lasos 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.

30 minutes

In general most Westie-Lasos usually need at least 30 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 Westie-Lasos?

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

Westie-Lasos have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for German Shepherd and Westie-Laso dogs?

Weekly

German Shepherd 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

Daily

Ideally, Westie-Laso should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for German Shepherds and Westie-Lasos?
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to German Shepherd or Westie-Laso 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.

1.5 cups

For an average 14-21 pound (6 - 10 kg) Westie-Laso feed 1.5 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 Westie-Laso?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

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

$1.40 - $2.80 / day

The average cost of a Westie-Laso is somewhere $1.40 - $2.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, German Shepherd or Westie-Laso?

$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 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Westie-Laso is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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 Westie-Lasos

German Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Westie-Laso has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shepherd and Westie-Laso compare in sensitivity?

These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. German Shepherd and Westie-Laso can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, unfamiliar people, or animals. This dog breed is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: German Shepherd vs Westie-Laso?

Apartment Friendly

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

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

The Westie-Laso is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do German Shepherds or Westie-Lasos have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of German Shepherd and Westie-Laso 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 Westie-Laso?

Cat Friendly

Do German Shepherd or Westie-Laso 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.

Westie-Lasos are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: German Shepherd or Westie-Laso?

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

Westie-Lasos are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do German Shepherd or Westie-Laso dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: German Shepherd or Westie-Laso?

German Shepherd and Westie-Laso are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between German Shepherd and Westie-Laso?

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

Westie-Lasos are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of German Shepherds and Westie-Lasos compare?

German Shepherd and Westie-Laso 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