German Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever
The German Shepherd was bred for herding sheep; the Labrador Retriever was bred for retrieving game for hunters. The German Shepherd is medium to large by weight; the Labrador Retriever is large. Both have a short to medium double coat, needing weekly brushing. Both shed a lot. The German Shepherd needs a good daily walk; the Labrador Retriever, lots of exercise.
Side by side
| German Shepherd | Labrador Retriever | |
|---|---|---|
| Bred for | Herding sheep | Retrieving game for hunters |
| Size | Medium to large | Large |
| Weight | 49 to 88 lb | 55 to 80 lb |
| Coat | A double coat, short to medium | A double coat, short to medium |
| Grooming | Brushing every week | Brushing every week |
| Shedding | A lot | A lot |
| Exercise | A good daily walk | Lots of exercise |
| Voice | Its descriptions mention barking | Not in its sources |
| In license records | 6,477 | 15,822 |
What people name them
The most common names in the pet license records we use.
From pet license records published by New York City, Seattle, Cambridge in Massachusetts, and Allegheny County in Pennsylvania.
General information to help you narrow your choices. Every animal is an individual; meet them first. Check your lease and local rules.
Breed facts: Wikidata and each breed's Wikipedia article, read 2026-10-04. The ratings are ours, from those facts; how we match is on the breed fit quiz.
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