Field Spaniel vs German Shepherd

Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • German Shepherd is the larger breed at 65–90 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Field Spaniel.
  • The Field Spaniel typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The German Shepherd has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Field Spaniel sheds less.
  • The German Shepherd is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitField SpanielGerman Shepherd
Group
SportingHerding
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
18"24–26"
Height (female)
17"22–24"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs65–90 lbs
Weight (female)
35–50 lbs50–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years9–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate British spaniel — rare flushing breed, taller than a Cocker. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate.

About the German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a confident, courageous, and smart working dog — the world's leading police, military, and service breed. Originally from Germany, this large herding breed typically weighs 65–90 lbs and lives 9–13 years. Breeders describe them as confident, courageous, smart.

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Field Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Ear infections

German Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Degenerative myelopathy