East European Shepherds and German Shepherds are two of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. Though they may look similar at first glance, there are critical differences between these two types of dogs. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most notable similarities and differences between east European shepherd vs. german shepherd.
1) Origin
One of the most notable differences between East European Shepherds and German Shepherds is their place of origin. As their name suggests, East European Shepherds were originally bred in Eastern Europe, while German Shepherds were initially bred in…you guessed it, Germany!
2) Size
East European Shepherds are typically larger than German Shepherds. Male East European Shepherds can weigh anywhere from 110 to 140 pounds, while females usually fall in the range of 99 to 121 pounds. Conversely, male German Shepherds typically weigh between 88 and 143 pounds, while females usually fall in the range of 77 to 110 pounds.
3) Coat type
Another difference between these two breeds is their coat type. East European Shepherds have a thick double coat that helps protect them from cold weather conditions. German Shepherds also have a double coat, but it is not as thick as the one their East European counterparts sported.
4) Temperament
When it comes to temperament, there are more similarities than differences between East European Shepherds and German Shepherds. Both breeds are intelligent, loyal, and protective of their families. However, East European shepherds tend to be a bit more independent than German shepherds and may not always be eager to please their owners. On the other hand, German shepherds are typically eager to please their owners and are known for being exceptionally trainable.
5) Health
Unfortunately, both East European Shepherds and German Shepherds are prone to several health problems. Some of the most common health concerns for these breeds include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and various types of cancer. However, with proper care and regular vet check-ups, most dogs of these breeds can enjoy a long and healthy life.
6) Lifespan
The average lifespan of an East European Shepherd is 10 to 12 years, while the average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 9 to 13 years.
7) Exercise needs
Both East European Shepherds and German Shepherds need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. These breeds are both notoriously active, and they need an owner who can keep up with their high energy levels. A good rule of thumb is to provide your dog with at least one hour of exercise daily. This can come in the form of walks, runs, hikes, or even fetch sessions in the backyard.
8) Grooming needs
East European Shepherds and German Shepherds both have high grooming needs. These breeds must be brushed several times a week to prevent the matting and tangling of their fur. They must also be bathed regularly, but not too often, as this can strip the natural oils from their skin.
Conclusion: As you can see, there are both similarities and differences between these two popular breeds of dogs. If you’re considering adding an East European Shepherd or a German Shepherd to your family, it’s essential to do your research so that you can choose the breed that’s right for you and your unique circumstances. Thanks for reading!