German Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier
Side-by-side comparison of the German Shepherd and Yorkshire Terrier — size, temperament, shedding, trainability, cost, and compatibility ratings.
Quick comparison
Best for families
German Shepherd
Based on good-with-kids rating
Easier to train
German Shepherd
Based on trainability rating
Less shedding
Yorkshire Terrier
Based on shedding level
Better for apartments
Yorkshire Terrier
Based on apartment-friendly rating
Lower maintenance
German Shepherd
Based on grooming needs
Longer lifespan
Yorkshire Terrier
Based on average lifespan
Detailed comparison
Physical traits
| Trait | German Shepherd | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Small |
| Height | 22–26″ | 7–8″ |
| Weight | 50–90 lbs | 4–7 lbs |
| Lifespan | 7–10 yrs | 11–15 yrs |
| Group | Herding | Toy |
| Coat type | Dense double coat, medium length | Long, silky, straight, human-hair-like |
Temperament & behavior
| Trait | German Shepherd | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | Very High | Moderate |
| Trainability | Very High | Moderate |
| Barking level | Moderate | Very High |
Compatibility
| Trait | German Shepherd | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with kids | High | Low |
| Good with dogs | Moderate | Moderate |
| Good with cats | Low | Moderate |
| Apartment friendly | Low | Very High |
Care requirements
| Trait | German Shepherd | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | Very High | Very Low |
| Grooming needs | Low | Very High |
| Daily exercise | 60–120 min | 20–40 min |
| Daily food | 2.5–3.5 cups | 0.25–0.5 cups |
| Annual cost | $1 500–$2 600 | $1 000–$1 800 |
Temperament
German Shepherd
ConfidentCourageousSmart
Yorkshire Terrier
AffectionateSprightlyTomboyish
Common health issues
German Shepherd
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Bloat
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Yorkshire Terrier
- Patellar luxation
- Tracheal collapse
- Portosystemic shunt
- Hypoglycemia
- Dental disease
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