While many people are familiar with the iconic German shepherd, there are actually many different dog breeds that hail from the country of Germany, with a wide range of sizes, characteristics, and personalities. From tiny toy breeds to burly hunting companions, we’ve compiled a list of 26 wonderful breeds that began in the land of beer, to give you all the information you need in your search to find the perfect pet.
This low-energy, affectionate dog is a perfect fit for families with small children. Because of their loving dispositions, they are often considered among the friendliest toy breeds, and make great pet dogs. Affenpinschers also have a striking, ape-like appearance which gave them their name, which in German means “monkey terrier.” Fans of Star Wars have also noted the striking resemblance of these solid black dogs to the fictional Ewoks.
American Eskimo dogs are another high-affection breed from Germany that make excellent companions. These dogs have plenty of energy and love being outside with their families. They can come in three different sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Although they have a similar appearance to the Siberian husky, they don’t share any close ancestors. Fun fact – Eskies were once employed as entertainment in circuses thanks to their high intelligence and ability to perform tricks.
Originally bred to create a similar but more uniquely colored version of the Yorkshire terrier, these playful little terriers are incredibly charming and lovable. They have a happy-go-lucky attitude and love showing affection to their humans. Biewers make good family dogs even with small children, thanks to their laidback personalities.
Although we may think of these lovable goofballs as anything but serious, boxers were actually some of the earliest military and police dogs because of their intense loyalty and high intelligence. Those working dog traits are still seen in boxers, making them great for active families. They’re also known to do an adorable dance when they get happy – the “kidney bean dance,” where they twist their bodies into a curve and hop around.
The dachshund’s short legs and long body give this badger dog its signature look. Pound for pound, doxies are considered some of the most courageous dogs, having originally been bred for the specific purpose of hunting badgers in the late 1800s. Dachshunds can come with smooth, wired, or long coats, and in a variety of different sizes, and the most common color red. Even with historically fiery charisma intact, they are beloved by their owners, often appearing near the top of popular breed lists year after year.
The Deutscher wachtelhund, also called the German spaniel, is a medium-sized dog that is popular in Germany but still somewhat rare elsewhere in the US and other parts of the world. The Deutscher wachtelhund is a versatile hunting dog that’s always up for adventure and ready to take on any given task. They are a loyal and noble breed and hold much respect for their families.
With a unique history, the Dobie was first developed by German tax collector Karl Dobermann in the late 1800s, likely from a combination of the German shepherd, rottweiler, and others. Considered to be excellent guard dogs, these large dogs may appear intimidating, but with proper training and socialization, they can be as affectionate and loving as any other breed. Some individuals are a “single animal family,” though, meaning they don’t always get along too well with other pets, so proper introductions should be had with all existing animals before bringing a Doberman home.
This versatile breed has one of the recorded oldest breed standards of all the German breeds. The standard for the breed was first established in 1897 and developed by Baron von Schorlemer. When not working, the GLP is often an affectionate dog at home, with a laid-back and friendly disposition. When in the field. GLPs are great hunting partners and can assist hunters in a variety of ways.
This lively and loyal breed loves to play and dote on its owners. Although the devotion is hard-earned, once you get their affection, you’ll be bonded for life. They are very high-energy and playful, so small children should not be unsupervised around them. These dogs’ loyalty and devotion make them great family pets.
Considered among the smartest dog breeds, the GSD is a highly intelligent dog that can also be extremely playful and loving. Because of their high intelligence and trainability, they were the first service dogs (Trusted Source) and guide dogs used to assist the visually impaired. Today, they are often employed in police units, search and rescue teams, and military operations.
Although this breed started off with humble beginnings in Germany, it quickly spread across all of Europe and into the United States. The GSP is a fun, active, and high-energy breed that loves to go on adventures outdoors, but will be content to curl up on the couch once they’ve expended enough energy. One quirk the GSP shares with cats – if it fits, it sits! This includes your lap, the latest delivery box, a shelf, or wherever else in your home.
These lively dogs, once kept as versatile guardians and companions on family farms, are known for their fluffy long coats and pointy snouts. They are lively and fun-loving and can be excellent pets for the right owner. One thing to keep in mind is because of their small size, they don’t like rough handling so younger children might not be the best match for them. German spitzs were also historically the preferred dog of Queen Victoria of England.
GWPs are highly intelligent and energetic and need a lot of space to run and play. They can make great pets for the right owner, but some caution should be used when they’re around small animals, as they do tend to possess a high prey drive. GWPs love to go hunting, hiking, or engage in any variety of outdoor activity with their owners.
Instantly recognizable thanks to their large size, these excellent family dogs live up to the moniker “gentle giant.” They are sweet and affectionate and love to spend time with their families. Historically bred as working dogs to help hunt wild boar, Great Danes were also once thought to ward off ghosts and evil spirits. Potential pup owners should be aware, however, that the immense size of the Dane can make them more prone to certain health issues, like hip dysplasia (Trusted Source) .
This is an even-tempered and intelligent breed that was first bred to assist hunters in flushing out game from underground. While they are still used in hunting today, they are also increasing in popularity as friendly and loving family pets. Jagdterriers are known to be dependable and affectionate with their families.
This breed is on the smaller within the class of medium dogs, but they come with a plus-sized personality. The Kromi is known for its distinctive smile, which is a good indicator of their cheerful and playful personality. They love learning tricks for their person and are even good with children and other dogs.
Known for their gentle temperaments to contrast their large and shaggy looks, Leonbergers make excellent therapy dogs because of their calm dispositions. They make excellent family pets because of their low exercise needs and high cuddle needs, but be prepared for a lot of shedding and grooming maintenance. A Leonberger is more likely to snuggle than snarl, and they tend to love on everyone, even strangers.
Originally bred for ratting, with ancestors including dachshunds and Italian greyhounds, the miniature pinscher loves to pounce when they play. They are little fireballs with endless energy and love to play chase. Minpins are confident extroverts that adore their families. Although they are often great with all ages, their small size and high prey drive limits their patience for grabby toddlers.
Although they share a name and appearance with the standard schnauzer, the miniature schnauzer is its own unique breed. These spunky and lively dogs were bred as ratters for German farms. That liveliness can still be seen in the minis of today. Don’t let their small size fool you, as they are big in personality and love.
Pomeranians were originally larger than their current size, and were employed in various jobs around the farm, including herding. Today they weigh between three to seven pounds and have a main job as cuddlers. They are very affectionate and love showing it to their family in a shower of kisses and demands for more snuggles.
Surprisingly to many people, the poodle was not bred in France, but rather Germany. The word “poodle” actually comes from the German word pudelin which means “splashing in water.” They were bred as a working and hunting dog with a waterproof coat that helped them thrive in the water. Now they can be seen all over the world in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard), showing off their latest fashion such as the teddy bear cut or the iconic continental cut.
Pudelpointers are a highly intelligent and loyal breed with a unique appearance. Having been bred from poodles and german pointers, they have a unique double rough coat that can range in appearance from smooth to curly or wiry. They also have the eye-catching characteristic mustache and eyebrows also commonly seen on schnauzers and some other breeds.
These large dependable dogs were originally bred for carting and drafting in Germany, but are known as a versatile breed capable of anything from search and rescue to therapy dog work. When properly trained and socialized, they have a gentle, affectionate nature, as well as a quirky habit of leaning on their people.
This is a friendly and affectionate breed that can often be seen sleeping near or on their human’s feet. These dogs have a relaxed affection that works best with an active and outdoor-loving family. They are also a versatile and adept hunting dog making them great for a family who loves to do both.
Standard schnauzers are an amazingly versatile and adaptable breed of German origin. They have such a strong bond with their family that they naturally follow along with any activity whether it be out camping or napping on the couch. They do have a strong guard-dog instinct that may cause them to guard against non-threats, so early training is advisable.
Weimaraners love to be independent and outside as much as possible. However, they don’t like being alone, and they love spending time with their families and form strong bonds with them. Due to their dispositions, weims may be susceptible to separation anxiety if not given enough time with their bonded family.
From big dogs to small dogs, German breeds offer lots of love and many can make a wonderful addition to any pet-loving household. If any of these German dogs seem like they could be a good fit for you, make sure to do as much research as you can before finding a shelter, rescue, or reputable breeder to help you bring home your new furry family member.
