English Springer Spaniel

Sporting · Medium

German Shepherd

Herding · Large

English Springer Spaniel vs German Shepherd

Side-by-side comparison of the English Springer Spaniel and German Shepherd — size, temperament, shedding, trainability, cost, and compatibility ratings.

Quick comparison

Best for families

English Springer Spaniel

Based on good-with-kids rating

Easier to train

English Springer Spaniel

Based on trainability rating

Less shedding

English Springer Spaniel

Based on shedding level

Better for apartments

English Springer Spaniel

Based on apartment-friendly rating

Lower maintenance

German Shepherd

Based on grooming needs

Longer lifespan

English Springer Spaniel

Based on average lifespan

Detailed comparison

Physical traits

Trait	English Springer Spaniel	German Shepherd
Size	Medium	Large
Height	19–20″	22–26″
Weight	40–50 lbs	50–90 lbs
Lifespan	12–14 yrs	7–10 yrs
Group	Sporting	Herding
Coat type	Double coat, medium length, feathered	Dense double coat, medium length

Temperament & behavior

Trait	English Springer Spaniel	German Shepherd
Energy level	High	Very High
Trainability	Very High	Very High
Barking level	Moderate	Moderate

Compatibility

Trait	English Springer Spaniel	German Shepherd
Good with kids	Very High	High
Good with dogs	High	Moderate
Good with cats	Moderate	Low
Apartment friendly	Low	Low

Care requirements

Trait	English Springer Spaniel	German Shepherd
Shedding	Moderate	Very High
Grooming needs	Moderate	Low
Daily exercise	60–90 min	60–120 min
Daily food	1.5–2.5 cups	2.5–3.5 cups
Annual cost	$1 300–$2 100	$1 500–$2 600

Temperament