German Spitz vs Border Terrier
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
German Spitz
Foundation Stock Service
Border Terrier
Terrier Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
German Spitz Overview
German Spitz dogs showcase a distinctive fox-like face with alert, pointed ears and a luxurious double coat that forms a striking ruff around the neck. Their compact yet sturdy build combines elegance with strength, featuring a well-proportioned body and characteristic plumed tail carried high over the back. These spirited companions display remarkable agility and grace in movement, embodying their lively and attentive nature.
Border Terrier Overview
Border Terriers possess a distinctive otter-like head, alert expression, and sturdy, well-proportioned frame. Their rough double coat, typically grizzle and tan or blue and tan, provides protection in all weather conditions. Standing 12-15 inches at the shoulder, these agile terriers combine a determined spirit with an affectionate nature, displaying remarkable stamina and intelligence in their movements.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: German Spitzs are less energetic than Border Terriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: German Spitzs require more grooming attention compared to Border Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, German Spitzs tend to be more reserved with strangers than Border Terriers.
- Trainability: Border Terriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Border Terrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Border Terriers adapt better to apartment living, while German Spitzs typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the German Spitz and Border Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | German Spitz | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 13-15 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Terrier Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | German Spitz | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm |
| Weight | 24-26 lbs 11-12 kg | 11-15 lbs 5-7 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | German Spitz | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Devoted, Lively, Attentive | Affectionate, Happy, Plucky |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | German Spitz | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
German Spitz Temperament
The German Spitz is known for being devoted, lively, attentive, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Border Terrier Temperament
The Border Terrier is characterized by being affectionate, happy, plucky, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the German Spitz and Border Terrier, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
German Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
German Spitz
Rating: 4/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
German Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
German Spitz
Rating: 1/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
German Spitz
Rating: 4/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
German Spitz Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
German Spitzs require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, German Spitzs require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Border Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Border Terriers need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Border Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
German Spitz Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Eye Problems
- Dental Issues
- Hip Dysplasia
- Heart Murmurs
Border Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- SLEM
- Heart defects
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
Pros & Cons
German Spitz
Pros
- Highly adaptable
- Excellent watchdog
- Affectionate with family
- Low maintenance cost
Cons
- Can be vocal
- Suspicious of strangers
- Regular grooming needed
- Strong prey drive
Border Terrier
Pros
- Excellent with families
- Adaptable to different living situations
- Low grooming requirements
- Good with children
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Strong prey drive
- May dig and bark
- Needs consistent exercise
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the German Spitz and Border Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.