German Shepherd vs Boxer: 3 Key Differences Explained

German shepherds and boxers are both popular breeds with many things in common. But what are the differences between German shepherds VS boxers? Both breeds are loyal, courageous, and alert. They are distinguished by their appearance, temperament, and health. For example, German shepherds have medium-length, double coats, while boxers have short single coats. As a result, boxers do not shed as much as German shepherds. But there are more distinctions between these breeds, and this post will determine the three key differences between the two.

German Shepherd Vs. Boxer: A Comparison 

Comparison between German shepherds Vs. boxers.

Key Differences Between German Shepherds and Boxers

Although both breeds are large dogs, they differ in appearance, personality, and needs. But, some of the biggest differences between German shepherds vs boxers are their life expectancies and health concerns. But, when it comes to size, social needs, and temperament, they are actually quite similar.

1. German Shepherds vs Boxers: Appearance

There are minimal differences between German shepherds and boxers regarding their size. However, their coats, build, and coloring are drastically different.

Height

When German shepherds are fully-grown, they measure 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder, while boxers are a bit shorter, measuring between 21 to 25 inches tall.

Weight

German shepherds weigh between 50 to 90 pounds, while boxers weigh 50 to 80 pounds, so there is no significant difference in weight.

Coat Type

The German shepherd has a medium-length double coat, which requires a lot of grooming, and sheds a lot, while boxers have a short, single coat and don’t shed a lot, requiring very little grooming.

Colors

German shepherds have several coat colors, including:

• Black and tan
• Black
• Black and red
• Black and cream
• Black and silver
• White
• Sable
• Liver
• Blue.

Boxers come in three colors, brindle, fawn, and white.

2. German Shepherds vs Boxers: Characteristics

Surprisingly, German shepherds and boxers have many similar characteristics, but they do differ in a few aspects.

Temperament

German Shepherd

It’s no wonder these beautiful dogs are so popular; they are intelligent, courageous, protective, and have gentle natures. German shepherds are eager to please, and have many wonderful traits that make them fantastic working dogs. If they receive consistent training and obedience lessons, these dogs will be loyal to a fault for the rest of their lives.

While German shepherds were originally bred to work and need a lot of stimulation, they are ideal family dogs as long as owners have the time to dedicate to them. They need an hour or more of vigorous training daily. Furthermore, they need large spaces to exert all their energy, so German shepherds do not make good apartment dogs.

Boxer

These lovable goofballs are silly, loyal, affectionate, intelligent, alert, courageous, and hard workers. However, they are wary of strangers and animals if not socialized and trained properly. Therefore, it is best to enroll your boxer in puppy school to develop strong connections and learn to behave.

Once they grow out of their puppy phase, boxers are fun and naturally friendly, without barking too much or being overly excited and jumpy. But you’ll have to wait a while as they only fully mature at the age of three, which is longer than most breeds. Additionally, they are easy to train, so they are the perfect breed for first-time dog owners. Boxers respond well to cues and leash training. Furthermore, they dislike routine, so owners must dedicate a lot of time to finding various types of stimulation for their boxers to keep them from getting up to mischief.

Social Needs

When it comes to German shepherds vs. boxers, they both need a lot of attention and exercise. But how do they differ regarding other social needs?

German Shepherd

Today the German shepherd is a loving family companion, but they are also working dogs that excel at working long hours sniffing out contraband for the K-9 unit, or patrolling the trenches on the front lines, just to name a few. While these large dogs are very adaptable, their size and energy levels make them unsuitable for small homes with little or no outdoor space. However, they can be happy living in an apartment as long as they receive enough exercise and outdoor time.

German shepherds get along with other pets in the home if trained and socialized from a young age but prefer being the only pet. They are incredibly loyal to their families and will protect them at all costs. However, they are not ideal dogs for first-time owners as they can be too big and powerful for novices to control.

These dogs are very particular and need order; if things are not routinely done, they will show signs of stress and anxiety. Therefore, owners need to ensure their dogs receive a high degree of control and training to mold them into well-behaved companions and guard dogs. Furthermore, German shepherds need a lot of attention and stimulation. So, this is not the breed for you if you have a demanding job or schedule. German shepherds suffer from separation anxiety and don’t do well being left alone all day.

As a result, these dogs thrive in environments with active owners or families who enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors. They especially like hiking. So, before you purchase a German Shepherd on impulse, be sure you are the right fit.

Boxer

This breed is incredibly goofy and active, so they don’t like being alone for long periods or left in the backyard with no stimulation or attention. Boxers are social dogs and need regular interaction. Therefore, they are not the best choice for singles or seniors that can’t give them all the attention they crave.

Boxers were initially bred as working or guard dogs, and they need to stay busy to be healthy and happy. Therefore, they need at least an hour of exercise daily. Due to their intelligence and social personalities, they made excellent messengers during World War II, K9 unit dogs, cattle wranglers, and guide dogs for the visually impaired.

3. German Shepherds Vs. Boxers: Health Factors

Life Expectancy
German shepherds have a life expectancy of 7 to 10 years, while boxers can live between 10 to 12 years old.

Health Conditions

Both breeds are prone to several health issues. For example, German shepherds are susceptible to:

• Bloat
• Hip dysplasia
• Arthritis
• Degenerative myelopathy
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

Boxers are prone to:

• Cancer
• Dilated cardiomyopathy
• Bloat
• Hypothyroidism
• Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease

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