German Shepherd vs. Nortese: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shepherds or Norteses hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the German Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Norteses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of German Shepherd and Nortese dogs?

Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Obedient
Confident
Curious
Loyal
Watchful

Active
Playful
Energetic
Sensitive
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Affectionate
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Easygoing

Shedding Level

Do German Shepherds shed more than Norteses, or which breed sheds more, German Shepherds or Norteses?

5 / 5

German Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

1 / 5

Norteses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the German Shepherd or Nortese?

5 / 5

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.

1 / 5

Avoid Norteses as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Ancestry

What are the origins of German Shepherd and Nortese breeds?

Shepherding Dog, Wolf-type Dog

Norwich Terrier and Maltese x

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register German Shepherd and Nortese?

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
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were German Shepherd and Nortese breeds first developed?

1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of German Shepherd and Nortese dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shepherd and Nortese?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for German Shepherd and Nortese breeds?

Black
Gray
Red
Silver
Sable
Fawn

White
Cream
Fawn
Red
Isabella

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for German Shepherd and Nortese breeds?

2 / 5

German Shepherds have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

3 / 5

Norteses have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of German Shepherd and Nortese?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of German Shepherd and Nortese?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for German Shepherd and Nortese?

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.

A Nortese can have a litter of 3-5 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

5 / 5

German Shepherd and Norteses 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 Nortese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

German Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

3 / 5

While the Nortese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for German Shepherd and Nortese breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Cataracts
Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA)
Dental Problems

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning German Shepherd and Nortese?

Panosteitis
Pannus
Perianal Fistulas
Hemophilia
Von Willebrand's Disease
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Patellar Luxation
Portacaval Shunt
Deafness
Allergies
Hypothyroidism
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome
Atopy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for German Shepherd and Nortese breeds?

Cardiac
Hip
Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Eye Examinations
BAER Testing
Blood Sugar and Thyroid Tests
Skin Biopsy or Intradermal Tests for specific allergies
Dental and Oral Examinations
X-rays or other radiographic imaging

Energy

How do the energy levels of German Shepherds and Norteses compare?

5 / 5

German Shepherds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

4 / 5

Norteses' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

German Shepherd vs Nortese social needs comparison

3 / 5

German Shepherd has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

4 / 5

Nortese has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

German Shepherd vs Nortese exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

German Shepherds require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

3 / 5

Norteses 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 Nortese?

1 / 5

German Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

2 / 5

Norteses sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do German Shepherds or Norteses bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

Compared to most other breeds, German Shepherd and Nortese tend to be less vocal and bark less frequently. They typically only bark when necessary, such as to communicate or alert their owner, and do not bark excessively, especially when left alone.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: German Shepherd vs Nortese?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

German Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

German Shepherd or Nortese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, German Shepherds or Norteses?

German Shepherds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Norteses are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Nortese dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should German Shepherd or Nortese walk each 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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Nortese, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do German Shepherds or Norteses require more exercise?

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.

In general most Norteses usually need at least 45 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 Norteses?

3 / 5

German Shepherd and Nortese are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for German Shepherd and Nortese dogs?

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

Ideally, Nortese 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 Norteses?

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to German Shepherd or Nortese in 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.

For an average 7-12 pound (3 - 5 kg) Nortese feed 1 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 Nortese?

The average cost of a German Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

The average cost of a Nortese is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, German Shepherd or Nortese?

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.

The average per month expenses of a Nortese is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $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 Norteses

5 / 5

German Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

3 / 5

Norteses are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shepherd and Nortese compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: German Shepherd vs Nortese?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: German Shepherd or Nortese?

3 / 5

German Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

5 / 5

Norteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do German Shepherds or Norteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

German Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

Norteses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - German Shepherd or Nortese?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do German Shepherd or Nortese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

German Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

5 / 5

Norteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: German Shepherd or Nortese?

2 / 5

German Shepherds are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

5 / 5

Norteses are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do German Shepherd or Nortese dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: German Shepherd or Nortese?

4 / 5

German Shepherd and Nortese 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 Nortese?

3 / 5

German Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

4 / 5

Norteses are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of German Shepherds and Norteses compare?

4 / 5

German Shepherd and Nortese dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.