Top 20 Dog Breeds Similar to German Shepherds You Should Know

Discover 20 Remarkable Breeds of Dogs That Look Like German Shepherds

Do you like the German Shepherd dog but have wondered about other breeds that look just like this breed? The German Shepherds are well recognized for their smartness, their obedience, and their elegant look that many tend to prefer. But they are not the only breed that gives such an outstanding characters and appearance. In this article, we are going to unearth many breeds that may look almost similar to a German Shepherd. Whether you plan on getting a new pet for your funny animal-loving family member or just curious how some of the breeds resemble the dogs you, then this guide will provide you with the glimpse of the world all around doppelgänger breeds.

Overview of German Shepherds

History of GSD

One more breed, which took its beginning in Germany, appeared in the late of the 19th century, it was German Shepherd, created by Captain Max von Stephanitz who wanted to get an ideal herding dog. Crossbreed of various herding breeds yielded a smart, strong and a versatile dog through selection by von Stephanitz. German Shepherds rose to prominence very fast and apart from being herding dogs, were adopted as police, military and service dogs because of their excellent work ethic and easily trainable nature.

Characteristics of German Shepherds

The German Shepherds are large muscular dogs with very well developed body structure and musculature. They have a dense undercoat with a top coat that can be medium to long and are available in certain specific colours such as black and tan, sable and black. Often referred to as a smart as well as a loyal dog, a GSD responds well to training and is suitable for functions ranging from search and rescue, assistance to guarding.

They are also described as very confident, brave, and protective, therefore great protectors and friends. These basic characteristics relate the breeds to German Shepherds that are depicted as very popular due to having various temperaments and physical features.

List of Dog Breeds Similar to German Shepherds

Belgian Malinois

Appearance

Belgian Malinois are of a similar size and shape to the German shepherd, though leaner and slightly more athletic. Their coat is short and they have fawn coloration with a black mask over the eyes, similar to the coloring of some GSDs.

Temperament

Similar to GSD, Belgian Malinois are intelligent, protective, and energetic breeds of dogs. They are employee-oriented and known for their hardworking nature these are employed in police and military forces. They are, however, more nervous and need intense mental and physical exercise in order to be calmed down.

History and Origin

One of the four types of Belgian Shepherd dogs, Belgian Malinois descends from the region of Belgium. They were developed primarily as herding dogs, but at the present time they are widely known for protection and service activities.

Suitability as Pets

That is why Belgian Malinois are appropriate for active families and those who have previous experience with breeds. It is imperative that they are given lots of exercise and their riddles solved daily to ensure that are happy and obedient.

Dutch Shepherd

Appearance

Dutch Shepherds have almost the similar build and shape like GSD, these dogs are muscular and well built with excellent agility. They possess a brindle coat, coming in short, long, or rough which distinguishes them based on coat patterns.

Temperament

As German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds are intelligent, loyal dogs that possess a great variety of usages. They are smart animals that are famous for their ability to follow instructions they understand the cultural norms of herding. They are slightly more independent as compared to Labradors but are very obedient.

History and Origin

Known to be from the Netherlands, Dutch Shepherds were originally developed to work as herders and on the farm. Due to this they have been used in many working situations since they can be useful in many ways.

Suitability as Pets

They are appropriate for the active families, and for people who already have some experience in training intelligent and playful dogs. It is for this reason that they need to be exercised often, and have their minds challenged in some way.

Shiloh Shepherd

Appearance

Shiloh Shepherds are slightly bigger and stronger than German Shepherds, the body has muscular development and a dense coat of two layers. They look a bit calmer and their fur on their head looks richer.

Temperament

Contrary to the German Shepherds which are protective, Shiloh Shepherds are mild and friendly thus more appropriate as family dogs. They have well developed brains and are receptive to training but they are more calm as a breed.

History and Origin

Shiloh Shepherds were bred in the United States in the, early 1970s from working German Shepherds, but as a companion breed not a working breed as is the German Shepherd.

Suitability as Pets

They are great family companions especially for families with kids. As for physical fitness they require moderate exercise and they like both physical manual work and mentally challenging tasks.

King Shepherd

Appearance

The Kng Shepherds, for instance, are substantially bigger as compared to the German Shepherds they are well built with muscles and have a twin layer coat of fur. They are dominant Individuals and seem to have powers that usurp them even more.

Temperament

King Shepherds are friendly, great-minded, and guard dogs like German Shepherds. These dogs are generally more relaxed and kind to the people around them, proving to be good for families.

History and Origin

However, King Shepherds were recognized in the United States in the 1990s after the breeders sharpened the German shepherds with other breeds such as Alaskan Malamute and Great Pyrenees to boost on body size and personality.

Suitability as Pets

Perfect for families which want a friendly and large-sized pet, these dogs need moderate amounts of physical activity and they are great for owners who want to spent a lot of time with their pets.

Bohemian Shepherd

Appearance

The typical Bohemian Shepherds shares the same dimensions and musculature as that of the German Shepherd though they are smaller and have a more expensive looking fur. Common types come in black and tan colour.

Temperament

Bohemian Shepherds are sociable, alert, and they love to work for their owners. But it is not as aggressive as the German Shepherds, which again are very faithful, protective dogs.

History and Origin

Bohemian Shepherds hail from the Czech Republic, and were utilized in the 14th century as herder and protectors of livestock.

Suitability as Pets

It is equally important to note that they are suitable for families as well as those lead an active lifestyle. It is essential that they have daily exercise and need brain stimulation for them to remain in good form.

East-European Shepherd

Appearance

East-European Shepherds are similar in looks to the GSD but are in most cases larger and more muscular. They are built stocky with a dense double layer coat and are also larger in size.

Temperament

They have the smartness, obedience, and guard characteristics of German Shepherds. It is usually less aggressive and calm to some extent this is because they make good guard dogs.

History and Origin

East-European Shepherds on the other hand were bred from the German Shepherds in the 20th century in the Soviet Union although the German Shepherds originated from European sub-region.

Suitability as Pets

They are better for skilled handlers who will be able to give the firm constructive training and enough exercise. They shine in protective positions and busy homes.

Carpathian Shepherd Dog

Appearance

Carpathian Shepherd Dogs are medium to large in size and very muscular with distinct similarity to the GSD in the physical structure. They have a dense, waterproof coat usually in shades of brown or tan.

Temperament

They are Police-like, have very strong protectiveness feelings towards their owners like German Shepherds. However, they are somewhat more independent and defiant.

History and Origin

Developed in the Carpathian Mountains of Eastern Europe, the breed was for ages used in guarding its owners’ livestock from attacks by other animals.

Suitability as Pets

They demand a very experienced owner who can deal with their high tendency of guarding and their exercise needs. They are rather useful in rural or suburban territories.

American Alsatian

Appearance

The American Alsatians are large dogs belonging to the sturdy group being closely related to the German Shepherds as bigger, more relaxed dogs. These dogs have a double layer of fur and physical appearance that resembles wolves.

Temperament

They are quite non-violent and they love to cuddle with their owners unlike German Shepherds that are more athletic and are naturally guarding dogs. They are perfect family pets.

History and Origin

Created in the United States in the later part of the twentieth century, the American Alsatian was intended to be a companion dog of the Dire Wolf type.

Suitability as Pets

It is perfect for families and persons seeking for a big but friendly dog. They need only moderate amount of exercise and are rather lazy.

Tervuren (Belgian Shepherd)

Appearance

Tervurens are medium to size bigger dogs with friendly disposition same as the German Shepherds. They have a long straight coat fawn to mahogany colour with black overlay.

Temperament

Similar to GSDs, Tervurens are intelligent, energetic, and loyal dogs or as Bouilly puts it, ‘‘Living,Hunting.’’ They are usually sensitive and should be trained lightly but frequently.

History and Origin

Tervurens are one of the four Belgian Shepherds with the creation of the dog breed mainly for herding and protection duties.

Suitability as Pets

They are well suited for families that engage in a lot of physical and mental activities which will keep the dog busy. They have to deal with experienced owners of dogs.

Groenendael (Belgian Shepherd)

Appearance

These dogs are as large and muscular as the German Shepherd, but they have a very elegant long, black fur. It has a slender and suave look and the dogs have an improvised air about them.

Temperament

They are smart, obedient, and will guard their owner, much like the German Shepherd. It’s important to note they are sensitive and very loyal to their owners.

History and Origin

Recognized in Belgium, the Groenendael is one of the four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd dogs which were bred for herding and guarding duties.

Suitability as Pets

It is recommended to families with an active life style and people who already have some experience in dog breeding. They require entite exercise and mental stimulation in order to live healthy and joyful lives.

Laekenois (Belgian Shepherd)

Appearance

Like the german shepherds, laekenois are also medium in size and built but their coats are rough and wiry. They are not so often spotted and look rather antique.

Temperament

As the member of Belgian Shepherd, Laekenois are intelligent, loyal and energetic as their counterparts. They usually appear to be shy and guarded in some ways.

History and Origin

Laekenois lays origin in Belgium and is one of the four varieties of Belgian Shepherd breed primarily used for herding and guarding.

Suitability as Pets

These breeds are especially appropriate for owners who can offer them precise and effective potty training and lots of physical activities. They perform optimally in active as well as working situations.

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

Appearance

Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs resemble German Shepherds but have a more wolf-like appearance, with a lean, muscular build and a dense coat. They have a distinctive, wild look.

Temperament

They are intelligent, loyal, and energetic, similar to German Shepherds, but with a more independent and strong-willed nature. They require careful socialization and training.

History and Origin

Developed in Czechoslovakia in the 1950s by crossing German Shepherds with Carpathian wolves, they were intended for military and working roles.

Suitability as Pets

They are suitable for experienced owners who can provide extensive training and socialization. They need significant exercise and mental stimulation.

Saarloos Wolfdog

Appearance

Saarloos Wolfdogs have a wolf-like appearance with a robust, athletic build similar to German Shepherds. They have a dense coat and striking, wild features.

Temperament

They are intelligent, loyal, and independent, with a temperament that is more reserved and less trainable than German Shepherds. They are known for their strong pack instincts.

History and Origin

Created in the Netherlands in the 20th century by crossing German Shepherds with Eurasian wolves, they were intended to retain more natural behaviors.

Suitability as Pets

They are best suited for experienced owners who can handle their strong instincts and provide a structured environment. They require ample exercise and socialization.

Northern Inuit Dog

Appearance

Northern Inuit Dogs resemble German Shepherds with a wolf-like appearance, featuring a well-muscled body and a dense, double coat. They often have a striking, wild look.

Temperament

They are intelligent, loyal, and social, similar to German Shepherds, but tend to be more independent and strong-willed. They require consistent training and socialization.

History and Origin

Developed in the UK in the late 20th century, Northern Inuit Dogs were bred from several breeds, including German Shepherds and Alaskan Malamutes, to create a wolf-like companion.

Suitability as Pets

They are suitable for active families and experienced owners. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive.

Utonagan

Appearance

Utonagans have a wolf-like appearance with a strong, athletic build similar to German Shepherds. They have a thick double coat and a striking, wild look.

Temperament

They are intelligent, loyal, and friendly, with a temperament that combines the trainability of German Shepherds with a more relaxed nature. They are excellent companions.

History and Origin

Developed in the UK in the late 20th century, Utonagans were bred from Northern Inuit Dogs and other breeds to create a wolf-like appearance with a gentle temperament.

Suitability as Pets

They are suitable for families and individuals looking for a friendly, wolf-like companion. They require moderate exercise and enjoy both physical and mental activities.

Tips for Choosing the Right Breed

Consider Lifestyle

Appearance While selecting a breed that looks like the German Shepherd, it is critical to ensure that the breed energy and the time that it needs to be cared for coincide with the owner’s lifestyle. For example, the most active dogs such as the Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherd fall under this category and have very high energy levels meaning that they will need to be trained as well as taken outdoors very frequently. At the same, collie-like breeds as Shiloh Shepherd and King Shepherd are calmer and might be good for families that want an easy going and affectionate dog to play moderate amount of exercises.

Temperament Training Needs

For any breed, it is essential to train them / socialize them and this applies even more to dogs that resemble German Shepherds because most will be intelligent and tends to be stubborn. Potty training them at an early age and as they grow ensures that their intelligence and energy are well channeled to do the right thing.

Belgian Malinois and the, Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, especially are dog breeds that need to be trained and socialized in a authoritarian manner because of their immense energy and protective behaviors. On the other hand, other breeds such as American Alsatian and the Utonagan which as known to be more laid back also need to be trained for them to grow up to be good mannered and balanced dogs.

Health Considerations

It is also crucial to know different health problems related to these breeds in order to have a happy and healthy pet. Some breeds with attributes of German Shepherds tend to be predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia which is a joint disease. These may be addressed by visiting the vet frequently to keep track of the pet’s health and ensuring the pet is well nourished and exercises enough.

Also, the King Shepherd and the East-European Shepherd, for example, might have certain inheritable diseases. It is necessary to look up for the health history of the specific breed and opt for the breeders who health check their breeding animals to minimize health issues inherited from the parents. The health status of your dog should also be checked time by time and for that general checkups and preventive care are there.

Conclusion

Choosing a dog that resembles a German Shepherd is also based on several features and the state of the temperature conditions in the client’s home. The types of working dogs that are Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds are very active dogs and require exercise as well as mental stimulation so they are suitable for owners with the liveliness of energy or families.

However, the domestic dogs such as Shiloh Shepherd and King Shepherds are friendly dogs with calm temperaments for people wanting friendly dogs. Further, it is crucial to start the dog training at a young age and make consistent practicing as a method of honest basic socialization of these smart and active dogs that naturally need to be navigated to the right track in obedience and polite ways of interaction and play.

The welfare of the breeds is also another factor that needs to be considered since some of the breeds are susceptible to such diseases as hip or elbow dysplasia. Pets need to be taken for a vet check up and proper attention because they can get many diseases ranging from simple cold or flu to chronic diseases. So while handling all these aspects you should be in a position to find a breed that appears like the German Shepherd but is adapted to the kind of life you live in.