German Shepherds are a playful and energetic dog breed.

They enjoy the company of people and kids, especially if they are socialized from a young age.

However, sometimes they can become aggressive towards other dogs and people.

To avoid this situation, you must beware of the size and character of the other dog.

Here’s all you should know about the interactions of German Shepherds with other dogs.

Best Companion Matches for German Shepherds

  • German Shepherd Dogs (GSD)
  • Labrador Retriever
  • Siberian Husky

German Shepherd Dogs (GSD)

GSDs temperamentally complement each other almost as well as their physical characteristics do.

You can guarantee that two GSDs will have similar degrees of energy and playfulness.

Furthermore, two dogs that follow your every instruction will be more likely to get along.

German Shepherds are very trainable and obedient canines.

Most of the requirements that make GSDs compatible are met by German Shepherds.

The only issue is that German Shepherds don’t accept other dogs with the greatest ease. [1]

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is the only breed of dog that is more well-liked in the US than the German Shepherd.

They have maintained their top spot for many years.

So, if you are familiar with the breed, it is simple to understand why.

The AKC gave Labrador Retrievers a 5/5 rating for adaptability, just like German Shepherds do.

The breed has also received high marks for trainability.

This indicates that once trained, they are more likely to be obedient.

This offers you more control over your dog and makes it simpler to solve issues before they go out of hand. [2]

Maybe Labradors are not the number 1 companion match for GSDs.

However, these 2 dog breeds are smart and highly compatible.

Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are slightly smaller and more delicate than German Shepherds.

They weigh roughly 60 pounds and stand close to two feet tall.

Still, they make up for that with amazing temperaments.

In any physical contest, Huskies may still compete favorably with German Shepherds.

This species was formerly employed to pull sleds with supplies across icy stretches.

These dogs are not easily intimidated.

Siberian Huskies get along with any dog they meet, unlike German Shepherds who may not.

Huskies have comparable amounts of energy as German Shepherds and are as playful.

What Characteristics Should You Be Looking for In Other Dogs?

  • Similar Size
  • Opposite Sex
  • Intelligence
  • Energy and Playfulness

Similar Size

You don’t necessarily need to look for a Great Dane to be your companion.

But if your second dog is too little, they might not get along with your GSD as well. [3]

This is due to the possibility that the companion dog will pick up cues from your intelligent GSD.

It is one reason why the German Shepherd can be such a wonderful Boxer friend.

Your companion dog might perform more politely or pick up tricks more quickly.

However, you don’t want a completely boring companion for your GSD.

Your GSD will grow bored very soon if their buddy can’t keep up.

Energy and Playfulness

Your German Shepherd has incredible energy levels and all-day stamina.

A competent playmate requires comparable amounts of stamina and energy to stay up.

Your GSD can miss out on all the fantastic exercise they could get from intense play.

This could happen if you chose a low-energy, sluggish breed as a friend.

You should search for a breed that enjoys spending limitless energy playing all day.

How to Help GSD Get Along With Other Dogs?

  • Daily Training
  • Early Socialization
  • Frequent Exposure
  • Avoiding Aggressive Dogs

Daily Training

Your initial reaction might be to reprimand your Shepherd severely for acting aggressively.

Doing so could cause them frustration and excessive barking.

Instead, you must learn how to discipline a GSD using the appropriate methods.

To show them that your behaviors will remain constant, discipline them in the same manner. [4]

The easiest way to train an aggressive GSD is to keep them on a leash at all times.

I help to steer them away from the source of their annoyance.

Calmly call them to you instead of screaming or shouting. [5]

Avoid agitating them more by refraining from harsh reprimands and physical abuse.

Early Socialization

After settling in for a week after you bring your GSD puppy home, he might feel at ease enough to entertain guests.

The best course of action is to invite a friend over by then.

To encourage friendliness, it’s a great idea to give your friend some snacks to treat your GSD. [6]

Give your friend a warm hug while grinning at them.

Around your pal, maintain open body language.

Dogs can detect any anxiety.

Frequent Exposure

Start desensitization as a strategy to prevent your GSD from reacting to other dogs.

When you use desensitization training, your dog will be around other dogs.

But they will be far enough away for your Shepherd not to respond negatively or aggressively.

You’ve pushed your pet too far if you notice them getting aggressive around other dogs.

So, until they are at ease, move them farther away from the other dog.

When you try again, start further away from other dogs.

When your dog looks at the other dog and then back at you, give them a treat. [7]

Avoiding Aggressive Dogs

Avoiding other aggressive pets will help lower overexcitement and being reactive.

It will also show your GSD that meet-ups can be fun and joyful experiences.

Only a small amount of behavioral traits are inherited by a species.

Over 80% of dog’s behavior is created by environmental factors. [8]

Do German Shepherds Get Along With Other Dogs?

Yes, German Shepherds get along with other dogs.

Their best matches include other German Shepherds and Siberian Husky.

Their compatibility depends on traits like size and the dog’s gender.

Frequent exposure and professional training help avoid aggression towards other pets.

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