Whenever we discuss the best dog breed, the German Shepherd is the first name that comes to mind. They are fairly large, strong, fast, and intelligent, which is why German shepherds are popularly known as military dogs.
But in my recent interactions with a few people, I came to know that there is a huge demand for dogs similar to German Shepherds but more big and powerful at the same time. Also, some look for lighter and quicker alternatives to German Shepherds.
It is very interesting to know that German Shepherds are very aggressive to strangers and require high maintenance and physical activity. This makes it obvious to ask questions like what dog is similar to a German Shepherd.
Note – Check out the table provided at the end of this article for a more comprehensive and user-friendly explanation.
Dogs Similar to German Shepherds
There are many dogs that look similar to German Shepherds but I am going to include the top 7 dogs that are family-friendly, vigilant, brave, fast, and even better than German Shepherds in one way or another. Let’s start this amazing list.
Belgian Malinois
Similar in height and color, Belgian Malinois is often mistaken for a German Shepherd. Like German shepherds, they are intelligent, smart, and family lovers, however, the difference lies between weight and speed.
Belgian Malinois is faster and more lightweight than that of German shepherds. Among all the positives, Belgian Malinois is infamously known for shedding issues as in golden retrievers.
Belgian Shepherds
Belgian Shepherds are dogs similar to German Shepherds and actually a parent category of Belgian Malinois discussed above. The other three categories (or breeds) are Laekenois, Tervueren, and Groenendael which look similar to German Shepherds.
Comparatively, Belgian is shorthaired, black mask, lighter, smarter, and more brave. However, from a general point of view, it won’t make any difference except for the police and military jobs.
American Alsatian
American Alsatian is identical to German Shepherd with almost no difference in size, color, and personality. They are referred to as Alsatian because they originated from the German-French border area of Alsace-Lorraine.
They are calm and quiet but are much bigger and more powerful than German Shepherds. The other traits are the same; they also are loyal, friendly, playable, easy-to-train, and family lovers, however, they are less aggressive.
Read More: Allergic to Dogs? Discover If Golden Retrievers Are the Right Choice for You
East European Shepherd
When you are looking for dogs similar to German Shepherds, East European Shepherds are an easy comparison though the latter is more blackish. As compared to German Shepherds, East European shepherds are larger and heavier.
They are strong-nerved, fearless, vigilant, and easy to adapt in colder climates. So, if your choice is German Shepherds for colder locations, you can consider East European Shepherd. Consider their wary personality before making any decision.
Belgian Tervuren Shepherd
Belgian Tervuren Shepherd is known for their strong proactive bonds and intelligence. These Belgian dogs are loyal to their loved ones, yet they can be guarded by strangers.
Though Tervuren looks similar to German shepherds in size and look, their long and black hair, pricked ears, and aesthetic build make them different.
Read More: Solutions: Why Do Puppy Screaming in Crate for Hours?
Bohemian Shepherd
If you have small children at your home, the Bohemian Shepherd is the best to be your pet animal. Though they can be misunderstood by German Shepherds, their smaller size, longer and black coats, and lesser muscles help in distinguishing.
Committed, vigilant, and cautious of their owners, bohemian shepherds make wonderful family pets. Even though they can be reserved around strangers, they are compassionate and adore cuddles when they are at home.
Northern Inuit
Rather than German shepherds, you might misjudge Northern Inuit as a wolf due to its color combination and shape. But need not worry, their personality is not like wolves, they are peaceful, lovable, and family-friendly dogs.
The Northern Inuit dog breed, which has its origins in England, is a crossbreed of Alaskan Malamutes, German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, and mutations of wolves. Northern Inuit is a family dog due to its low aggressive behavior.
A Comparison Chart – Dogs Similar to German Shepherds
| Dog Name | Origin | Color | Weight | Coat | Lifespan |
| Belgian Malinois | Belgium | Silver, grey, cream, fawn, red, or mahogany | 20-30 kg | Short-haired coats in shades of fawn | 10-14 Years |
| Belgian Shepherds | Belgium & Western Europe | Solid black, black with white patches on the neck and chest | 20-30 kg | Moderately long double coat with ruffed fur | 10-14 Years |
| American Alsatian | California | Black, brown, silver, white | 34-55 kg | Long and rough hair | 12-14 Years |
| East European Shepherd | Soviet Union | Sable, solid black and black and tan | 30-60 kg | Long, rough coat | 10-12 Years |
| Belgian Tervuren Shepherd | Belgium | White patches on the chest, neck, and toes. Black shades on the face | 27-34 kg | Dense undercoat, long and straight outer coat with black tips | 12-14 Years |
| Bohemian Shepherd | Czech Republic | Black, brown, and tan with yellow shades | 16-25 kg | Long, thick fur with a rich undercoat | 10-12 Years |
| Northern Inuit | North America | Pure white, black, or sable with a white face mask | 25-38 kg | Short, dense, double coat | Unknown |
Conclusion
German Shepherds are undoubtedly the best choice for families and dog lovers. However, if you are looking for better options with the same traits then this post might help you. You have acknowledged What dog is similar to a German Shepherd in this article. If you still have any queries, do not hesitate to comment below.
