If you hate vacuuming, this matters. The German Shepherd's 5/5 shedding level means daily fur management is part of life.

Life expectancy favors the German Shorthaired Pointer: 12–14 years versus the German Shepherd's 9–13 years. For many families, those extra years together are a compelling reason to lean toward the German Shorthaired Pointer.

Purchase prices are in the same ballpark: $1,000–$3,000 for a German Shepherd and $800–$2,000 for a German Shorthaired Pointer. The initial investment won't differ dramatically between these two breeds.

Personality is where these two breeds diverge most visibly. The German Shepherd — originally from Germany — has a courageous, intelligent and loyal disposition.

Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.

The German Shepherd stands 55–65 cm (22–26 in) and weighs 22–40 kg (49–88 lbs), while the German Shorthaired Pointer measures 53–64 cm (21–25 in) and 20–32 kg (44–71 lbs). The German Shepherd is the larger of the two, though not by a dramatic margin.

Both breeds share identical exercise needs (5/5) and similar energy levels (German Shepherd: 5/5, German Shorthaired Pointer: 5/5). Your daily exercise routine will look the same regardless of which breed you choose — plan for at least 60 minutes of vigorous daily activity.

Both breeds score 5/5 for trainability — you'll have a similar experience training either one. Both are cooperative, eager learners.