Russian Hound vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Russian Hound vs German Shepherd - Breed ComparisonRussian Hound is originated from Russia but German Shepherd is originated from Germany. Both Russian Hound and German Shepherd are of same height. Both Russian Hound and German Shepherd are having almost same weight. Both Russian Hound and German Shepherd has same life span. Russian Hound may have less litter size than German Shepherd. Both Russian Hound and German Shepherd requires Low maintenance.

History

russian hound - historyThere are sportsmen and hunters who appreciate the versatile Russian Hound. The Russian Hound has been a popular working breed in its homeland for a long time as it is an ancient dog breed.

This is an ancient dog breed, being developed by crossing common hunting dogs with indigenous ovcharkas and Laikas. Later European hunting dogs were also introduced into the mix.

The dogs numbers have declined but were later revived in the late 1800s. The first breed standard for the Russian Hound was created in 1896. Known as the Russkaya Gontchaya, this tough dog is still popular in all parts of Russia.

​​

german shepherd - historyIn 1882 german shepherd was introduced in a show at Hanover. They were created by the cross breeding of the rural sheep dogs by a man named Max. In 1906 they were first exported to America. After that the breed became very popular in UK.

Description

russian hound puppy - descriptionThe Russian Hound is a medium to large sized dog. He stands at roughly 62 – 67cm in height and weighs roughly 36 to 45kg. The dog however is available in a number of different sizes.

The coat is fairly short and dense, becoming fuller in Winter. The coat color is fawnish with a darker brown, blackish saddle on the back. The paws have some white markings. The eyes are medium length and the tail is long and held down.

Temperament:

The Russian Hound is a peaceful, calm dog, not making a fuss around strangers, but accepting them well. He may be calm, but he is independent and strong willed.

Training and socialization will be good for him, making him obedient and well mannered.

german shepherd puppy - descriptionThe GSD is very good for being a watchdog and hence it do not welcome guests to home. But when trained from a puppy it will suit itself for making new friends. GSD like to be always with somebody and they can be its master or his family members or else its partner. The GSD is very intelligent and active hence they should be always kept busy, exercised and playing. Nowadays many of them are trained well and made as four legged stars.

When we see all around the world many of them are involved in helping the physically challenged people. Also they are very important personnels in working with police and military for finding the criminals. Their excellent sniffing power works very good when given proper training for finding illegal smuggling. But basically the breed was set in to herd the sheep and protect them from predators.

Based on the popularity they are ranked 2nd in US and 4th in UK.

Characteristics

russian hound dog - characteristicsEverybody wants a peaceful, loving dog that can be a good pet and companion without causing a lot of trouble. The Russian hound is a peaceful, loving, loyal dog who is going to make any family a wonderful 4-legged fried.

He can adapt to life in the city or the countryside so long as he is given a good loving home and plenty of exercise.

Children friendliness

german shepherd dog - characteristicsThe GSD is a very good child friendly dog, they love to play with kids.

Adaptability

They adopts both hot and cold climates, but they like cold weather very much and also their body is suitable for cold than hot.

Learning ability

The GSD has high ability to learn tricks and also they are interested in learning. As they have very high intelligence they learn very easily and quickly.

Health Problems

russian hound puppies - health problemsThe Russian Hound is a healthy breed. Nonetheless even the healthiest dog breeds can become ill.

Good food, exercise and lots of love and attention can ensure a long life for him.

However every dog can have one of the many common dog illnesses there are. Toothache can be a serious problem for your pet because if you don’t look in his mouth you won’t be able to tell if he has a bad, painful tooth.

Dogs can also break their teeth, causing sharp, jutting pieces which cut the gums. They can also get gum disease. Plaque can cause a whole lot of bacteria in your pets mouth. With the increase in bacteria, your dog’s health problems increase too. It is imperative to look in your pets mouth and speak to your vet about canine dental maintenance.

Eye Infections:

Eye infection are a common problem with dogs, and an eye infection can be from allergies. Yellow pus can indicate an infection. It is best to speak to your vet because some eye infections can lead to blindness if left untreated.

german shepherd puppies - health problemsThe GSD has the chances for getting orthopaedic diseases such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Other common orthopaedic problems which affects GSD are Panosteitis, Osteochondritis and cruciate ligament rupture.They also get some skin problems such as allergies and pyoderma. Digestive problems such as chronic diarrhea and colitis are also seen in GSD.

Hair fall

GSD is a continuous shedder. They are having a two layer coat. They should be brushed daily as it will remove the dead fur and thus prevents shedding.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

russian hound dogs - caringAs a hunting dog, you will need to ensure your Russian Hound gets enough exercise. He will love his walks with you but will want to be let off his leash when in the park. He loves the opportunity to run free. Games at home in the garden will also be good for this large dog.

General Care:

Provide your pet with a nice, warm, dry sleeping area.

Make sure your pet’s vaccines are up to date.

Have your dog neutered or spayed to prevent unplanned puppies.

Grooming:

Groom your Russian Hound by brushing him twice a week.

Check him over for lumps while brushing him.

Check inside his ears for signs of redness.

Trim his nails.

Look at his eyes and make sure they are clear with no signs of discharge.

Check inside the mouth for rotten or bad teeth as this can cause tremendous pain and also cause toxins to get into the bloodstream.

Diet:

The Russian Hound relies on vitamin and mineral enriched food. The best commercially manufactured dog foods can provide this. These foods are wonderfully convenient. Try not to give your dog dry kibble day after day, but vary it twice a week with some home-made food.

Simply add into one big pot chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots. This food can all be chopped up and added in to the dry kibble twice a week. It is wonderfully tasty for your your canine friend. Dogs thrive on simple, consistent meals. Ty and add some raw meat to his food occasionally.

Ensure there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

german shepherd dogs - caringThe GSD should be given an cool environment which they will enjoy a lot.

Feeding the puppy

The GSD puppy should be fed small quantities of food but several times per day as it needs to gain 2 gms weight per day. The preferred food for them is dry food along with raw liver pieces which would provide them excellent energy. The protein food given to puppy should contain 25 to 30% calories. Puppies consume more food when compared with adults.

Feeding the adult

The GSD needs a food which has a considerable amount of protein. They are carnivores in the nature. The protein can be given from cooked meat. The artificial food products will not be suitable for them. When are provided with protein food they will gain fat from itself. The recommended fat content for GSD is 5% to 8%.

Points for Good Health

The GSD should be provided with a nutritional food for their good health.

Games and Exercises

Physical exercises are very much needed for GSD since they are very energetic and power packed. It is highly recommended to make them play and run daily as they don't need to get bored. They can be made to climb in hilly areas as they want to explore their surroundings. They can be made to swim or play hide and seek and find the missing objects. Regular morning walk will be very good for them.

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Russia
Germany
Height Male:
62 - 67 cm
24 - 27 inches
61 - 67 cm
24 - 27 inches
Height Female:
62 - 67 cm
24 - 27 inches
55 - 61 cm
21 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
36 - 45 kg
79 - 100 pounds
34 - 44 kg
74 - 98 pounds
Weight Female:
36 - 45 kg
79 - 100 pounds
34 - 44 kg
74 - 98 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 13 Years
9 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 8
1 - 15
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Russkaya Gontchaya
Alsatian, Alsatian wolf dog, Berger Allemand, Deutscher Schaferhund, Schaferhund
Colors Available:
Fawnish with darker brown, blackish saddle on the back.
Black and Tan, Sable, Bicolor, Black and White
Coat:
Short
dense and thick, short, medium thick, thick and fluffy, long, furry around their chest, ears, tail or backs of their legs
Shedding:
Moderate
Constant, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Aggressive, Alert, Gentle, Intelligent, Loyal, Outgoing, Protective, Quiet
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Old English Sheepdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Akbash Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Abruzzenhund vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  4. Briard vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Rough Collie vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Bouvier des Flandres vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. East German Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. Saarlooswolfhond vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Estrela Mountain Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Huntaway vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Perro de Pastor Mallorquin vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. South Russian Ovcharka vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Mioritic Sheepdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Siberian Husky vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Golden Retriever vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Rottweiler vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. American Bully vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Boxer vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Akita vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Doberman Pinscher vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Samoyed vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Labradoodle vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Cane Corso vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Alaskan Malamute vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. Santal Hound vs Russian Hound - Breed Comparison
  27. Russian Hound vs Basset Hound - Breed Comparison
  28. Russian Hound vs Pharaoh Hound - Breed Comparison
  29. Russian Hound vs Basenji - Breed Comparison
  30. Russian Hound vs Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla - Breed Comparison
  31. Russian Hound vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  32. Russian Hound vs Hungarian Vizsla - Breed Comparison
  33. Russian Hound vs Redbone Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  34. Russian Hound vs Bluetick Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  35. Russian Hound vs Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  36. Russian Hound vs Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  37. Russian Hound vs Bavarian Mountain Hound - Breed Comparison
  38. Russian Hound vs Basset Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  39. Russian Hound vs Beagle-Harrier - Breed Comparison
  40. Russian Hound vs English Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  41. Russian Hound vs Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie - Breed Comparison
  42. Russian Hound vs Alpine Dachsbracke - Breed Comparison
  43. Russian Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  44. Russian Hound vs Podenco Canario - Breed Comparison
  45. Russian Hound vs Dunker - Breed Comparison
  46. Russian Hound vs Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen - Breed Comparison
  47. Russian Hound vs Chippiparai - Breed Comparison
  48. Russian Hound vs Podenco Andaluz - Breed Comparison
  49. Russian Hound vs Podenco Galego - Breed Comparison
  50. Russian Hound vs English Foxhound - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds