The German Shepherd, also known in Britain as an Alsatian, is a German breed of working dog of medium to large size. The breed was developed by Max von Stephanitz using various traditional German herding dogs from 1899.
The German Shepherd was developed in Germany and thrives in environments where it can engage in physical and mental activities.
The German Shepherd is renowned for its intelligence and versatility, making it one of the most popular breeds worldwide. Originally bred for herding and guarding sheep, this breed has been utilized in various roles including police, military, and service work due to its adaptability and trainability. Known for its loyalty and protective nature, it is also a beloved family pet.
Max von Stephanitz, the founder of the breed (with Horand von Grafrath), circa 1900
Illustration from 1909
Sable bitch (left) and dog (right)
Skeleton in the Museum of Veterinary Anatomy of São Paulo, Brazil
A human infant with two dogs
A common breed club's goal for German Shepherd body conformity, criticised by the UK Kennel Club
East-European Shepherd
Shiloh Shepherd
White Shepherd
White Swiss Shepherd Dog
A nine-week-old puppy
Portrait of a ten year old German Shepherd
Two Karelian Bear Dogs at 10 months of age, left is an unaffected littermate and on the right is a bitch affected by pituitary dwarfism
An adult Karelian Bear Dog bitch with pituitary dwarfism displaying severe alopecia
Strongheart, one of the earliest canine stars (1921)
Trainability
Responsiveness to training: —/5