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?
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
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.