In total, there are 56 German Shepherd breeds that are officially recognized. Below is a list of the top 30 most popular species worldwide:
However, the popularity of these dogs only partially says something about their efficiency at work. Because nowadays many of these species are kept primarily as family dogs.
1. German Shepherd
The German shepherd is by far the most popular type of shepherd in the world. This breed is also the second most popular dog internationally.
There are many reasons for this. On the one hand, they have excellent noses. On the other hand, these four-legged friends are very versatile due to their excellent trainability.
This also explains why they are not only used as family dogs but also as police, guard, military, rescue, and assistance dogs.
Compared to other breeds, the German shepherd also has a strong hunting instinct, sheds relatively heavily, and is considered courageous, confident, and loyal.
Fun Fact: Statistically, this species is particularly prone to dwarfism. You can tell by the fact that the affected dogs hardly gain any size after birth.
2. Border Collie
The Border Collie originated in Great Britain. Among all dog breeds, this German shepherd type also ranks 35th among the most popular breeds.
The guardian instinct of these animals is also often so strong that they guard literally everything that moves. So, for example, bicycles and strollers.
Combined with their enormous stamina, this makes them ideal farm dogs. Due to their trusting nature, they also make great house and family dogs.
In addition, they bark relatively little, are very easy to train, and need a lot of exercises. However, they are definitely unsuitable for living in apartments.
Fun Fact: Not only are these dogs excellent at herding, but they are also good at four roles. Because the “Jumpy” can ride 100 meters on the skateboard in under 20 seconds.
3. Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie has earned a reputation as a “farmer dog” in its homeland. Because for many farmers, this type of shepherd dog is significantly cheaper than hiring people.
On the one hand, the popularity of these four-legged friends is due to their versatility. Because they give both good shepherds, guards, service, and family dogs.
On the other hand, they can also be excellently trained and are considered to be very friendly, eager, and intelligent. Incidentally, they also live up to a whopping 15 years.
However, pointy-eared dogs find it difficult to stay alone and need a lot of attention. They are also ideal for first-time owners.
Fun Fact: Speaking of versatility… This breed also holds the world record for surfing.
4. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie comes from Scotland and only became internationally known through the film industry. Because of their calm nature, they are very good actors.
In addition, this German shepherd type is very easy to train and has a charismatic appearance. Because of their long fur, they also get along well with the cold.
They also learn very quickly compared to other dogs. They are visibly happiest when you give them lots of work, occupation, and attention.
In addition, these animals get along very well with children. They also warmly welcome strange dogs and people into the family.
Fun fact: The eyes of these long-haired shepherd dogs are hardly visible due to the long coat, but they have all the better developed other senses.
5. Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund was once bred specifically to herd reindeer. Nowadays, however, this type of shepherd dog is mostly kept as a family dog.
In their Finnish homeland, four-legged friends are very popular. In the past 10 years, they have also gained international popularity due to their good trainability.
On average, these four-legged friends live to be around 13 years old. However, there are many experience reports in which the animals were up to 17 years old.
Because of their calm, friendly, and persistent nature, they also make great dogs for jogging. Their fur is also very cold-resistant.
Fun Fact: These dogs were taught to bark a lot from the start to herd their flock. So don’t be surprised if your popularity drops among your neighbors.
6. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is one of those dogs that needs almost constant activity. In addition, these four-legged friends need a lot of exercises.
The latter explains why this type of shepherd dog is less suited to apartments and city life. They don’t like solitude at all.
In addition, these animals are also suitable as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. They are also among the top 20 most popular breeds worldwide.
They are very trusting towards their own family and always want to be close to their master. Strangers, on the other hand, are more often shy and reserved.
Fun Fact: As the name suggests, these dogs hail from… The United States. Yep, you read that right.
7. Rough Collie
The Rough Collie has made a name for itself with its long snout and long hair. On the other hand, they also have above-average hair.
Statistically, this type of shepherd dog is one of the 40 most popular dogs in the world. Because they are not only suitable for herding animals but also make great family dogs.
These four-legged friends also love company – whether it’s their own family or even other pets. They also get along very well with children.
The Scottish breed is also considered very loyal, protective, and gentle. However, If a stranger comes too close to the family, they also intervene physically if necessary.
Fun Fact: These animals’ guardian instincts are so strong that even long-serving house dogs can be transformed into efficient sheepdogs in a day.
8. Berger Blanc Suisse
The Berger Blanc Suisse is not only suitable for herding but is also used as a family and guard dog. Incidentally, they are descended from the German Shepherd Dog.
Visually, this type of shepherd dog is reminiscent of white wolves. However, the fur of the white shepherd dogs discolors very quickly – especially on freshly mown grass.
In addition, they shed relatively heavily, are easy to train, and need a lot of exercises. However, they are definitely too active to live in flats and apartments.
However, this breed is not really widespread. This is partly because the animals were once banned from being bred by the government.
Fun Fact: To say that these dogs are “loyal” is almost an understatement. Because they follow you even if you only have to go to the toilet for a short time at night.
9. Basque Sheepdog
The Basque Shepherd originally comes from northern Spain and was primarily used as a shepherd and guard dog in the past. But they also make great house dogs.
In addition, this type of shepherd dog is easy to train and needs a lot of exercises. They are therefore less suitable for living in apartments.
These animals are perceived to be happiest when people are around them. They are also considered very territorial, friendly, and protective.
These four-legged friends are even ideal for beginners and first-time owners. They also learn very quickly, get along well with children and live up to 15 years.
Fun Fact: This breed often spins in circles with joy. The happier they are, the more circles they spin.
10. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
According to studies, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the 11 most intelligent dogs in the world. And yes, despite its size, it’s a German shepherd breed.
In the past, these four-legged friends were also mostly used for herding cows. Constant barking and one or the other pinching of the heel are her primary techniques.
Even if they have very short legs, they can reach a speed of up to 40 km/h. They are also among the 13 most popular breeds worldwide.
They are also excellent for training, shed a lot, and need a lot of exercise. However, they are less suitable for annoying neighbors. Because they bark too much for that.
Fun Fact: In heavy snowfall, these dogs often overestimate their size. This sometimes leads to them jumping in snow that is too deep and then getting stuck.
11. Hrvatski Ovcar
Hrvatski Ovčar originated in Croatia. In its homeland, the black shepherd dogs are also used as family and guard dogs.
They are also described as “workaholics” among other things. Because this type of German shepherd visibly thrives the more tasks and responsibilities they are given.
Without early socialization, however, they are also more often reserved towards strangers. In addition, they are known to be very sociable, loyal, and alert.
These four-legged friends also have a strong urge to be with people and need a lot of attention. In addition, they bark and shed comparatively much.
Fun fact: This breed looks at its master almost every 2 seconds so that it cannot ignore any instructions.
12. Belgian Shepherd Dog
There are four different subspecies of the Belgian Shepherd Dog. The so-called “Groenendael” has an all-black coat and an excellent nose.
The “Laekenois” is known for its strong guardian instinct as well as its rarity. The “Tervueren” often serves as a drug sniffer dog and is very people-oriented.
And last but not least the “Malinois”, which is often used by the police and the military. All of these German shepherd types can also be excellently trained.
In addition, due to their uniqueness, they are now also recognized as an independent breed. In addition, they bark relatively little and have a strong hunting instinct.
Fun Fact: This breed is feared by many people. Because they not only serve as watchdogs in government institutions but also as drug sniffer dogs at customs at the border.
13. Puli
The Puli comes from Hungary and is primarily known for its long dreadlocks. These develop completely automatically in this type of shepherd dog.
The thick and heavy fur also has several functions. On the one hand, it protects against cold and heat. On the other hand, it also provides additional protection from predators.
Because bites from poisonous snakes or even wolves and bears are much more difficult to get through the fur. In addition, they lose very little hair through knotting.
The latter explains why, paradoxically, the four-legged friends can sometimes be kept by allergy sufferers. They are also known to be very loyal, clever, and obedient.
Fun Fact: These dogs’ coats take around 3 years to reach their final length. In fact, without a regular haircut, the fur grows so long that it brushes the ground.
14. Koolie
The Koolie is originally from Australia. This type of shepherd dog is also considered to be so persistent that it can run almost the whole day with short breaks.
This race is also naturally proficient in a wide variety of Guardian techniques. They are therefore suitable for herding animals of all sizes – from rabbits to horses.
Her good trainability combined with her friendly nature also makes her ideal for beginners and first-time owners. They are also very loving and patient.
On average, they live to be around 15 years old – but many of them also reach the age of 18. They also love to be kept busy and make great family dogs too.
Fun Fact: Internationally these four-legged friends are also known as “German Kollie”. The highlight? This breed originated in Australia.
15. Schapendoes
The Schapendoes have proven to be very useful, especially for farmers. Because this type of shepherd dog is considered to be particularly versatile and independent.
Compared to other breeds, these four-legged friends can therefore also easily do a job without human supervision. The bearded dogs also bark very little.
They also get along great with children, dogs, or even other pets. This type, on the other hand, can only be trained moderately well.
The latter explains why they are not recommended for first-time owners and seniors. They are also naturally hungry and tend to be overweight.
Fun Fact: This breed is often jealous. So if another animal gets more attention, you have to be prepared for loud barking.
16. English Shepherd
The English Shepherd is one of the few breeds that like a set routine. They usually get up at the same time and want to get their food at the same time.
This type of shepherd dog is also suitable as a family, guard, and farm dog. In addition, they are very easy to train and learn very quickly.
As a rule, they develop a close connection with their own family within a very short time. They also like attention but are not cuddly.
They also get along very well with children and other dogs. On the other hand, as they are generally very energetic and active, they are less suitable for apartments.
Fun Fact: This breed originated in Engl… No, you thought wrong! Paradoxically, these dogs have their origins in the United States.
17. Hollandse Herdershond
The Hollandse Herdershond originally comes from the Netherlands and was previously mainly kept by farmers. Because they are considered to be particularly versatile.
In the Second World War, on the other hand, the German shepherd species almost died out. This also explains why they are still considered relatively rare today. They also get along well with heat and cold.
Since these animals can be trained very well, they are also sometimes used as service dogs. They are also available with both short and long hair.
Nowadays, four-legged friends also serve as police, search, and rescue dogs, among other things. In addition, they bark little, shed a lot, and are very athletic.
Fun Fact: This breed has very long ears from birth. They almost look “too big” compared to their small body.
18. Polski Owczarek Nizinny
The Polski Owczarek Nizinny or “PON” has gained a reputation, especially during the war. Because they are very perceptive and were able to warn of bombers.
Part of the reason she has good instincts is that her long hair naturally limits her vision. They also shed very little.
Despite its good trainability, this type of shepherd dog is not recommended for beginners. Because during training, they often behave in a particularly stubborn and stubborn manner.
However, in the hands of a strict and experienced trainer, they are very obedient. In addition, they are very intelligent, confident, and alert.
Fun Fact: When these animals don’t get a daily opportunity to shed their energy, they often do so by gnawing on the legs of tables and chairs.
19. Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd comes from the USA and is statistically one of the 34 most popular breeds worldwide. In part, this is due to their unique coat color.
On the other hand, this type of German shepherd is also very trainable, friendly, and very enthusiastic. They also get excited about things very quickly.
In addition to a strong guardian instinct, these four-legged friends also have a particularly alert aura by nature. But they also give very affectionate family dogs.
When fully grown, these dogs weigh just 12 kg. Due to their thick fur, however, they look much heavier. They can also live up to 15 years.
Fun Fact: Sleep? This is totally overrated according to this breed. 5-6 hours is enough for them instead of sleeping up to 18 hours a day like some sighthounds.
20. Bobtail
The bobtail originated in England and owes its name to a practice that is now forbidden. The tail of this breed used to be cut into a “bob”.
When fully grown, these dogs often weigh up to 50 kg. Compared to other German shepherd species, they also need less exercise and are more often couch potatoes.
In general, the breed is known to be very trusting, outgoing, and gentle. They also get along well with children and strange dogs.
Due to their good trainability and their calm nature, they are also often seen in films. In addition, they naturally have a strong guardian instinct.
Fun Fact: This breed is ideal for series lovers. Because they have no problem spending half the day in bed in front of the television.
21. Kuvasz
The Kuvasz comes from Hungary, where it was once primarily used as a guard for kings and nobles. It was only later that the shepherd dog species was also used as a house dog and hunting dog.
During the Second World War, these four-legged friends almost died out. They are still relatively rare today. In addition, they are described as very strong, territorial, and dominant.
With a weight of over 60 kg, they are also one of the heaviest dog breeds in the world. On the other hand, they are very friendly towards their own family.
Despite their size, the giants live up to 14 years. They also only come with white fur. In addition, beginners are discouraged from this breed.
Fun Fact: The actual name of these four-legged friends was once “Kawasz”. However, due to a translation error, over time it became “Kuvasz”.
22. Entlebuch Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher Sennenhund comes from Switzerland and is one of a total of 4 types of mountain dogs. Incidentally, “Entlebuch” is just the name of a Swiss district.
This German shepherd species has become increasingly popular over the past 20 years due to its rarity. They are also very loyal, friendly, and enthusiastic.
In addition, they are easy to train, bark a lot, and need a lot of exercises. For small flats and apartments, on the other hand, are completely unsuitable.
This is also not recommended for first-time owners. Because they are only obedient if they have a dominant and strict master. Still, they make great family dogs.
Fun Fact: This breed has something called “shepherd’s eyes.” Because the light spots on the eyebrows give the impression from afar that they are always keeping an eye on the herd.
23. Bergamasca Shepherd Dog
The Bergamasque Shepherd Dog can have three different coat colors – white, gray, or black. However, he is primarily known for his plate-shaped dreadlocks.
These also develop completely automatically in this type of shepherd dog. In addition, these four-legged friends learn very quickly, but can also be stubborn at times.
As paradoxical as it may sound, these dogs are also suitable for many allergy sufferers. Because of the knotted fur, they lose almost no hair.
The animals also develop a close bond with their masters. However, the bond is significantly weaker with other family members.
Fun Fact: This breed is so alert that napping is jokingly referred to as a “vegetative state”.
24. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog originated in Scotland. Internationally, however, the “Sheltie” is usually spoken of here. This shepherd type also makes very good family dogs.
According to studies, they are also among the 6 most intelligent breeds worldwide. In addition, they learn very quickly, are excellently trainable, and love to be busy.
Internationally, they are currently the 25th most popular dog. Because they are very trusting, and gentle and get along well with children.
In addition, they also usually tolerate other dogs and pets. In return, they bark a lot and need a lot of exercises that is far above average.
Fun fact: the affection of these four-legged friends knows no bounds. For this reason, they are also known, jokingly, as “shadows”.
25. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian shepherd dog comes from Turkey and weighs up to 60 kg when fully grown. This type of shepherd dog used to be used primarily to protect against bears and wolves.
But they were also often used by farmers for herding and herding animals. Nowadays, on the other hand, they serve primarily as watchdogs and family dogs.
On the other hand, the four-legged friends usually behave very “bossive” and dominant towards strange dogs. They also don’t shy away from a fight for the alpha position.
In addition, they are less trainable than other breeds, shed little, and have little hunting instinct. They are also considered loyal and self-confident.
Fun Fact: A flower bed in the garden is not the best choice for this short-haired German Shepherd. Because if they are too warm, they like to dig for cold earth in order to cool off in it.
26. Ciobănesc Romanesc Carpatin
The Ciobănesc Românesc Carpatin reaches a shoulder height of a whopping 73 cm. This type of shepherd dog is about as big as the largest greyhounds in the world.
This also explains why the four-legged friends usually instinctively take on the alpha role among other dogs. Oh yes, and of course also defend them.
The animals originally come from Romania. In their homeland, they are still used today to protect against wolves, bears, or even thieves. But her vigilance comes at a price.
Because of their natural skepticism, they are usually relatively shy or even aggressive without appropriate socialization. They are also considered courageous and independent.
Fun fact: Even after hours of discussion, the association members did not agree on the naming of this breed. This also explains why 9 official names were finally recognized for them.
27. Eastern European Shepherd
The East European Shepherd Dog was bred on the basis of the German Shepherd Dog. The difference? He’s taller and handles the cold better.
That was exactly the goal of this breed. In comparison, this type of shepherd dog is much less suitable as a family dog and is less easy to train.
When working as a military or guard dog, on the other hand, they can fully play to their strengths. These are still their primary areas of application to this day.
Incidentally, the four-legged friends look like a German shepherd dog that has turned out to be significantly too large. They also have slightly more black fur than its ancestor.
Fun Fact: This breed is also known internationally as “BEO”. In Vietnam, however, it is understood as a leopard.
28. Mastin del Pirineo
According to excavations, the Mastín del Pirineo was kept as a domestic dog around 4,500 years ago. In the past, this type of shepherd dog was mostly used to protect against predators.
With a weight of up to 90 kg, these colossuses can easily take on a wolf alone. In a pack, they can also sometimes intimidate large brown bears.
For their job, they used to wear wide metal collars, which had long spikes on the outside. For potential attackers, it almost always ended in blood.
However, this breed also has a very friendly and gentle nature. This also explains why they are mostly kept as family dogs these days.
Fun fact: These four-legged friends are usually fully grown after a year – but only after about three times as long. So for around 2 years, you are dealing with an oversized puppy.
29. Berger des Pyrénées
The Berger des Pyrénées has made a name for itself among shepherds in particular. A single dog can look after and herd up to 500 sheep alone.
During the First World War, this type of shepherd dog was used, among other things, for sending messages and as a search and rescue dog.
Because of their trusting and obedient nature, they also make great family dogs. However, they are often so active and energetic that they almost seem nervous.
They are therefore less suitable for city or apartment life. Because they only really thrive on wide meadows and lots of activity.
Fun Fact: “Active” is almost an understatement for this breed. This also explains why they are internationally known as “Thunderball”.
30. Gos d’Atura Catala
The Gos d’Atura Català is also known as the Catalan Shepherd Dog, among other things. He is also considered relatively rare and has a strong guardian instinct.
The Spanish breed is very easy to train, barks little, and also hardly sheds any hair. For this, they need a lot of exercise and have a strong hunting instinct.
Because of their independent nature, this German shepherd species can easily be left alone for several hours. They are also considered to be very obedient and intelligent.
The fur of these animals is often so long that the eyes are completely covered. But don’t let that fool you – they still see through well.
Fun Fact: The shaggy fur on the legs of these gray German Shepherds is known for forming particularly large snowballs in the snow.