German Shepherd vs Golden Retriever

Both the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever are large breeds. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

German Shepherd

Trait

Golden Retriever

Large

Size

Large

65–90 lbs

Weight (Male)

65–75 lbs

50–70 lbs

Weight (Female)

55–65 lbs

24–26″

Height (Male)

23–24″

9–13 yrs

Lifespan

10–12 yrs

Medium double coat

Coat Type

Long double coat

Herding

AKC Group

Sporting

Germany

Origin

Scotland

Temperament & Care Ratings

High

Energy Level

High

Moderate

Grooming Needs

Moderate

Extreme

Shedding

Extreme

Exceptional

Trainability

Exceptional

Good

Good with Children

Excellent

Moderate

Good with Dogs

Excellent

Frequent

Barking Level

Occasional

Common Health Issues

German Shepherd

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Degenerative myelopathy
Bloat

Golden Retriever

Hip dysplasia
Cancer
Heart disease
Skin allergies

Learn More

German Shepherd Breed Profile

Complete guide to the German Shepherd — size, temperament, health, and care.

Golden Retriever Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Golden Retriever — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds

German Shepherd vs Golden Retriever

Both the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever are large breeds. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

German Shepherd

Trait

Golden Retriever

Large

Size

Large

65–90 lbs

Weight (Male)

65–75 lbs

50–70 lbs

Weight (Female)

55–65 lbs

24–26″

Height (Male)

23–24″

9–13 yrs

Lifespan

10–12 yrs

Medium double coat

Coat Type

Long double coat

Herding

AKC Group

Sporting

Germany

Origin

Scotland

Temperament & Care Ratings

High

Energy Level

High

Moderate

Grooming Needs

Moderate

Extreme

Shedding

Extreme

Exceptional

Trainability

Exceptional

Good

Good with Children

Excellent

Moderate

Good with Dogs

Excellent

Frequent

Barking Level

Occasional

Common Health Issues

German Shepherd

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Degenerative myelopathy
Bloat

Golden Retriever

Hip dysplasia
Cancer
Heart disease
Skin allergies

Learn More

German Shepherd Breed Profile

Complete guide to the German Shepherd — size, temperament, health, and care.

Golden Retriever Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Golden Retriever — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds