Imagine a scene where a remarkable dog tries to step into the spotlight. The dog is a German Shepherd which is incredibly strong, smart, and loyal. These dogs have a remarkable history of bravery and being extremely loyal to their human mates they are like heroes in the world of dogs.
There are many environmental barriers present that are stopping many from petting these dogs, you are here which shows that you are also facing this issue or simply curious to know about the breeds that may assemble German shepherds. Don’t worry pals, we are going to meet 20 of them. Fasten your seat belts and let’s jump into this “20 Dogs That Look Like German Shepherds”.
20 Dogs That Look Like German Shepherds
Following are the details of those 20 breeds. I will try my level best to provide you with the details that you have been looking for.
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois also simply known as Malinois is a breed mostly famous for its versatility, strong work ethic, and intelligence. They are relatively medium-sized with an athletic build. They have a straight and short coat that comes in various shades depending upon the species.
Malinois are highly intelligent dogs and are often used in police work, search and rescue, and other demanding roles that require problem-solving skills. Belgian Malinois are best suited to active households and working environments where their energy and intelligence can be put to good use.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Belgium |
| Height | 22-26 inches (male), 20-24 inches (female) |
| Weight | 60-80 pounds (male), 40-60 pounds (female) |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 14 years |
| Coat | Short to medium-length, straight |
| Color | Fawn to mahogany with a black mask |
| Recognition | AKC, FCI, UKC, CKC, KC (UK) |
Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd is a breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands. They are of medium size. Males have a body size of 22 to 24 inches while the body of females is slightly smaller. Dutch Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable.
They love to take part in obedience training and can efficiently learn commands. They are highly energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Both the German and Dutch shepherds share many common features like having erected ears, Both have strong work ethics and are highly intelligent and trainable. Still, the final choice depends on your preferences.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Netherlands |
| Height | 22-24.5 inches (male), 20.5-23.5 inches (female) |
| Weight | 50-70 pounds |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 13 years |
| Coat | Short to medium-length, dense, harsh texture |
| Color | Brindle, often with a black mask |
| Temperament | Versatile, intelligent, and attentive |
Shiloh Shepherd
Shiloh Shepherds are a breed of dog that originated in the United States in 1960. They were basically developed by Tina Barber whose aim was to create a more gentle and larger version of German Shepherds. They are larger than the standard German Shepherds. and weigh around 80 to 140 pounds.
They closely resemble German Shepherds but are heavier as compared to them. Their body is well muscled consisting of a double layer of coat. They can adjust themselves to many environments like Urban and Rural however they survive the best in homes having access to a vast yard where they can play and run whenever they want.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States (developed in the 1960s) |
| Height | 26-30 inches (male), 26-28 inches (female) |
| Weight | 120-140 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female) |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 12 years |
| Coat | Plush or smooth, double coat |
| Color | Various colors including sable, black, and tan |
| Temperament | Gentle, loyal, and protective |
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
It is a relatively rare breed of dog that was produced by crossbreeding of German Shepherds and Carpathian wolves. They have a double coat usually gray or silver. The eyes are amber in color and are almond-shaped. Ears are pointed just like a wolf that also resembles German Shepherds. This breed is not suitable for a sedentary lifestyle or apartment living they need a fenced yard for proper and healthy survival.
They are not recommended for first-time dog owners as they are wild. They survive best in homes with sort of experienced dog owners. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog and German Shepherds are well known for their intelligence and work ethic.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Czechoslovakia (created in the 1950s as a military breed) |
| Height | 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female) |
| Weight | 57-70 pounds (male), 44-57 pounds (female) |
| Group | Working |
| Life Expectancy | Around 14 years |
| Coat | Thick double coat, straight and close to the body |
| Color | Wolf gray, agouti (wild wolf-like coloring) |
| Temperament | Intelligent, lively, and pack-oriented |
White Swiss Shepherd
This breed originated from Switzerland and resembles the German Shepherd in many ways. These dogs have a double layer of coat that is mostly pure white. Males typically stand between 24 to 36 inches with females slightly smaller than that size.
Both breeds share common temperament traits such as protectiveness and loyalty. Both these breeds are useful in police, search and rescue, and other investigatory processes.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Switzerland (developed in the early 20th century) |
| Height | 23-26 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female) |
| Weight | 55-88 pounds |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 13 years |
| Coat | Long, dense double coat with a pure white color |
| Color | White |
| Temperament | Intelligent, friendly, and devoted |
Saarloos Wolfdog
This is a breed of dog that was basically developed in the Netherlands by crossbreeding a Eurasian gray wolf with a German Shepherd. They are known for their independent nature and tend to be reserved with strangers. They are also highly intelligent and loyal just like German Shepherds.
They have a thick double coat that comes with various shades of gray with long fur around the neck. They can adapt themselves to various environments like apartments as long as they receive proper mental stimulation.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Netherlands (developed in the 1930s-1940s by Leendert Saarloos) |
| Height | 24-30 inches (male), 24-28 inches (female) |
| Weight | 79-90 pounds (male), 66-79 pounds (female) |
| Group | Working |
| Life Expectancy | Around 11 years |
| Coat | Dense double coat, straight and harsh |
| Color | Agouti (wolf-like coloring), varying shades |
| Temperament | Reserved, loyal, and independent |
American Alsatian
The American Alsatian is a rare breed of dog that was introduced in America. The goal behind the production of this breed was to provide dog lovers and enthusiasts with a loving and calm breed of dog that may also resemble German Shepherds.
American Alsatians are known for their gentle and calm nature. They are intelligent and can be trained easily. They can adapt to various climates but survive better in temperate regions. They are a good option if you want to pet them indoors and want to make a pup a part of your family.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States (developed in the 1980s) |
| Height | 26-31 inches (male), 24-29 inches (female) |
| Weight | 90-120 pounds (male), 70-100 pounds (female) |
| Group | Therapy |
| Life Expectancy | Around 11 years |
| Coat | Dense double coat, plush or long |
| Color | Various colors including sable, black, and tan |
| Temperament | Gentle, calm, and good-natured |
King Shepherd
This breed of dog is famous due to its versatile characteristics. Their weight is between 75 to 150 pounds. They have a dense undercoat for insulation purposes. and have triangular and erect ears. They have a blushy and long tail. They are very energetic and require regular sessions of exercise to stay healthy and fit.
You guys need to note that these dogs are mostly suitable in households due to their size and structure. If you are willing to have them in your backyards, a lovely and memorable journey is waiting for you.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States (developed in the early 1990s) |
| Height | 25-29 inches (male), 23-27 inches (female) |
| Weight | 90-150 pounds (male), 75-120 pounds (female) |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 10 years |
| Coat | Double coat, straight or wavy |
| Color | Various colors, commonly tan and black |
| Temperament | Intelligent, loyal, and versatile |
Northern Inuit Dog
It is a breed that was first produced in the United Kingdom and has been featured in many films and TV shows such as “Game of Thrones”. They are famous due to their wolf-like appearance. Their body is well muscled and their size varies from medium to large.
Their coat is different from German Shepherds but they resemble them in many ways. Both breeds have erect ears but Northern Inuit Dog somehow resembles a lot with wolves. Both these breeds are highly intelligent, loyal, and trainable.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom (developed in the 1980s-1990s) |
| Height | 23-32 inches (male), 20-28 inches (female) |
| Weight | 55-110 pounds (male), 44-88 pounds (female) |
| Group | Not officially recognized by major kennel clubs |
| Life Expectancy | Around 13 years |
| Coat | Double coat, dense and straight |
| Color | Various colors and markings, often wolf-like |
| Temperament | Gentle, friendly, and sociable |
Bohemian Shepherd
The Bohemian Shepherd is also commonly known as Chodenhund. It is a breed of dog that originated in the Czech Republic. It is not commonly known outside its home country but it can prove to be a good alternative for those who are looking for German Shepherds. This breed requires proper fencing and social interaction for their mental satisfaction and to survive better in moderate to cool climates.
Bohemian Shepherds share many common features with the standard German Shepherds. Firstly, the coat color of both breeds is mostly black but they also have some different colors. Both breeds have a proper athletic build and share some similar facial characteristics like dark eyes along with expressive faces.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Czech Republic (developed in the 20th century) |
| Height | 19-22 inches (male), 18-20 inches (female) |
| Weight | 40-55 pounds (male and female) |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 14 years |
| Coat | Double coat, long and straight |
| Color | Sable with a black mask, white markings |
| Temperament | Intelligent, loyal, and active |
Canadian White Shepherd
It is a breed of dog that is also known as the White Shepherd and is similar to the German Shepherd in many ways but can be distinguished only because of the white color of its coat. These dogs are famous for their loyalty, versatility, and intelligence. These dogs enjoy physical activities like obedience training, jogging, and hiking which simply indicates that they cannot survive in hot climates.
Both German Shepherds and Canadian Shepherds show approximately the same body structure hence many just call them White Shepherds. The intelligence and trainability of these beads make them crucial parts of many works such as police work.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany (recognized as a separate breed) |
| Height | 25-29 inches (male), 24-28 inches (female) |
| Weight | 90-120 pounds (male), 70-100 pounds (female) |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 13 years |
| Coat | Double coat, medium-length, straight |
| Color | White |
| Temperament | Intelligent, loyal, and versatile |
Tervuren
The Tervuren is one of the 4 recognized breeds of Belgian Shepherds. They are mainly famous due to their elegance and intelligence. Their elegant build is what makes them pretty satisfying in appearance. The eyes are almond-like which exhibits the intelligent nature they possess. They have a double coat that provides them effective insulation for survival in cold climates and households.
Both the Tervuren and German Shepherd consist of a bushy tail that provides them a clever impression. Both these breeds are really loyal to their families, sarcastically saying, even more than your pals. They are always ready to sacrifice everything they have for their owners.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Belgium |
| Height | 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female) |
| Weight | 55-75 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female) |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 11 years |
| Coat | Long, straight, dense double coat |
| Color | Fawn with black overlay, black mask |
| Temperament | Intelligent, alert, and energetic |
Siberian Husky
A Siberian Husky is a breed of dog that is famous due to its distinctive look and appearance. They have an insulating undercoat that helps them to survive in cold climates. They consist of triangular-shaped ears with heterochromia eyes. They are famous in the world of dogs due to their sociable and friendly nature. They have an independent mindset which somehow compels them to train themselves in a significant way. They can survive better in extremely cold climates as compared to moderate and hot climates.
Siberian Huskies and German Shepherds share some similar features. Both of these dogs have a double coat layer but the coat of Huskies is slightly denser as compared to the German Shepherds. However, when it comes to temperament, these 2 breeds are pretty different from each other.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Siberia, Russia |
| Height | 20-24 inches (male), 18-22 inches (female) |
| Weight | 45-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female) |
| Group | Working |
| Life Expectancy | Around 13 years |
| Coat | Thick double coat, medium-length, straight |
| Color | Various colors and markings, often with striking facial masks |
| Temperament | Friendly, outgoing, and mischievous |
Berger Picard
Berger Picard is also known as Picardy Shepherd. It is a breed of dog that originated in France, Picardy region. Their head is wedge-shaped and there is a bushy tail present in them. They are majorly famous due to their endurance and effective strength. The double coat present in their body provides protection in different climates. The eyes of this breed are oval-shaped and dark. They are a good option for those who are looking for a competitive dog that can win titles for them in the world of “Dog Competitions”.
German Shepherds and Berger Picards also share many similar features. Both breeds are highly intelligent and they have a strong history as working dogs. Both of these doggies have exhibited efficient herding instincts due to which they are protective of their families.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | France |
| Height | 26-31 inches (male), 24-29 inches (female) |
| Weight | 90-150 pounds (male), 80-120 pounds (female) |
| Group | Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 13 years |
| Coat | Harsh, crisp, and straight |
| Color | Fawn with or without a mask |
| Temperament | Intelligent, energetic, and friendly |
Saarlooswolfhond
The Saarlooswolfhond is a breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands. They have a wolf-kind of appearance. Their body is also well muscled and they have a double layer of coat which is very dense. They aren’t suitable for those who want to pet them in their apartments, they need a place where they can roam peacefully. They are suitable for families that have experience so that they can handle independent breeds.
As Saarlooswolfhond and German Shepherds are different from each other, they still share some common characteristics and features. Both breeds have approximately similar ranges of body size. Both breeds have almond-shaped eyes but with different sorts of colors and expressions. They both have the same teeth pattern, sharp canine teeth are present in both of these breeds.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Netherlands (developed in the 1930s-1940s by Leendert Saarloos) |
| Height | 24-30 inches (male), 24-28 inches (female) |
| Weight | 79-90 pounds (male), 66-79 pounds (female) |
| Group | Working |
| Life Expectancy | Around 11 years |
| Coat | Dense double coat, straight and harsh |
| Color | Agouti (wolf-like coloring), varying shades |
| Temperament | Reserved, loyal, and independent |
Utonagan
Utonagan: It is also a breed of dog that has a great resemblance to wolves. It is basically a domestic dog. Eyes are mostly brown or blue. These are very active in nature due to which their nature is considered to be friendly. They are also friendly with children. Weight is around 80-150 pounds and survives at best in cold climates.
Both the Utonagans and German Shepherds are somehow similar when it comes to the shading of their coats, body size, intelligence, and shape of ears.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom (developed in the 1980s) |
| Height | 26-31 inches (male), 24-29 inches (female) |
| Weight | 90-150 pounds (male), 80-120 pounds (female) |
| Group | Not officially recognized by major kennel clubs |
| Life Expectancy | Around 13 years |
| Coat | Double coat, dense and straight |
| Color | Various wolf-like colors and markings |
| Temperament | Friendly, sociable, and intelligent |
Kuchi Dog
The Kuchi Dog is also commonly called the Afghan Shepherd. It is a breed that is native to Afghanistan. They are commonly used by Kuchi people for proper guarding of livestock. They’re large in size. Their coat helps them survive harsh weather. Coat colors can be tan, black, and white. They are very loyal and protective in nature. They require mental stimulation and exercise for proper mental satisfaction.
Their weight is between 80 to 220 pounds and their average lifespan is 10 to 11 years only if they receive proper care and nutrition. Providing a healthier environment with all the basic facilities can surely increase the lifespan of a Kuchi Dog.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Afghanistan |
| Height | 25-32 inches (male), 23-28 inches (female) |
| Weight | 110-220 pounds (male), 80-150 pounds (female) |
| Group | Working, Herding |
| Life Expectancy | Around 11 years |
| Coat | Double coat, dense and coarse |
| Color | Various colors, often shades of gray, brindle, or solid |
| Temperament | Independent, strong-willed, and protective |
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is simply known as Anatolian that originated in Turkey. They are very large and powerful. The size of their adult males is usually between 28 to 30 inches. Their weight is between 80 to 150 pounds. Their head is broader as compared to other beads having a muscular and strong neck.
Both German and Anatolian Shepherds have a tail that is low in posture. The ear size of both of them is also medium. There is also a similarity in facial characteristics of both of these breeds but on the other hand, there are also some sort of variations.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Turkey |
| Height | 28-32 inches (male), 27-31 inches (female) |
| Weight | 110-150 pounds (male), 80-120 pounds (female) |
| Group | Working |
| Life Expectancy | Around 12 years |
| Coat | Short to medium-length, dense, and thick |
| Color | Fawn, brindle, white, with a black mask |
| Temperament | Independent, intelligent, and protective |
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd is a very powerful breed of dog. It originated in the Caucasus region. They are considered to be one of the largest breeds of dogs in the world.
They have a body weight between 88 to 170 pounds and have a double coat for necessary insulation in cold climates. The coat also varies in length depending on the body size. The tail looks elegant due to its gentle curve.
They are pretty determined and loyal to their family members and are of quite an independent type of nature. They are mostly used to provide safety to large properties and can be used to hunt predators to save the livestock.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Caucasus region (Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan) |
| Height | 25-29 inches (male), 24-28 inches (female) |
| Weight | 99-170 pounds (male), 88-154 pounds (female) |
| Group | Working |
| Life Expectancy | Around 11 years |
| Coat | Double coat, long, dense, and coarse |
| Color | Various colors including shades of gray, fawn, and brindle |
| Temperament | Protective, assertive, and loyal |
Malamute Shepherd
It is basically a cross between our lovely German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute. Their size is giant and have semi-erect ears same as German Shepherds As both the parents are intelligent and trainable you can surely expect the same from offspring.
They remain healthy and fit in cold climates and require necessary socialization from the start so that they can behave ethically with their fellow animals. Never forget to ask the breeder about necessary grooming tips if you are willing to purchase a Malamute Shepherd.
The 5 Types of German Shepherds
Till yet, I have discussed all the 20 dogs that look like German Shepherds. Now it’s time to discuss 5 types of German Shepherds.
Show Line German Shepherds
The Show Line German Shepherds is a type of dog breed that is very famous due to its appearance in shows related to dogs. They have a very distinctive look and are highly intelligent and trainable. They are calm in nature. They come in various coat colors. Tan and Black color are the most common coat colors of this breed but there are also other colors associated with this breed. It is compulsory for the owners to seek proper facilities and environment for their better grooming and nourishment.
Working Line German Shepherds
Working line German Shepherd is a type of German Shepherd that is mainly suitable for various tasks and jobs. They are very smart and are strong in nature. Their back is straighter, and they have a strong muscular build. They are very focused and energetic due to which they are very helpful in performing efficient tasks. If you are looking for a German Shepherd who is active in sports and competitive tasks then working line Shepherd is a good option. They are literally excellent workers.
Working Bloodline German Shepherds
Working Bloodline German Shepherds is a type of dog breed that is again very excellent in guarding and helping police for research purposes. Their bodies are very strong and muscular. They have a focused temperament and have coats of shorter length which is very easy to handle for the breeders and owners. If you are involved in activities such as agility and obedience then this breed is the best option for you. They are literally exceptional when they do something with devotion.
Show Bloodline German Shepherds
These dogs are suitable for exhibitions and dog shows. They have a calm temperament. Their breeders and owners are always very concerned regarding their physical perfection as per the standards. Still, I’d say that while choosing a German Shepherd or any similar breed, try to focus on the qualities you want in your pet and then make a choice accordingly.
Pet Line German Shepherds
Pet Line German Shepherds is also known as Family German Shepherds. Their temperament is very friendly and stable due to which they are very suitable to be regarded as Family pets. Their body structure is more balanced as compared to the other breeds of German Shepherds that we have discussed in this section. The physical appearance of this breed may not be that much under the breed standards.
Should You Get A Dog Breed Similar To German Shepherds?
Surely, you can buy a breed that looks like a German Shepherd but remember that this choice mainly depends on your preferences. If you’re the one whose environment doesn’t support the proper grooming of German Shepherds, then you have gathered the best information yet. Choose the best breed according to the environment and characteristics.
Common Question:
What is the smallest Shepherd dog?
The smallest shepherd dog is a Shetland Sheepdog which is commonly known as “Shetlite”. They are famous due to the small size they possess. They have good herding abilities that make them an expert shepherd dog. Never forget to seek proper vaccination venues for them as they require timely checkups and health facilities.
What big dog is similar to a German Shepherd?
The Belgian Malinois is very large in size and also similar to the German Shepherd. Both these breeds are loyal and protective for their family members but Belgian Malinois have more of a compact size than German Shepherd. Apart from the similarity in structure, there exists a similarity in nature of these two breeds.
What is a Pocket Shepherd?
This term is basically used to refer to miniature types of Shepherd dogs. The term is quite informal. They can be managed easily in smaller areas but the owners must treat them with extra care and affection. Remember, they can not provide similar capabilities to the efficient and larger-sized breeds but are better for those who want to pet a Shepherd and looking for a smaller size.
Which is a bigger wolf or a German Shepherd?
The size of both of them can vary as they both can be different in their relevant sizes. The wolves that are adults can have a larger size as compared to the German Shepherds. You guys need to note that both of these species can be different in size according to species. So, in general, we can conclude that both breeds have species of different sizes.
What’s the most expensive German Shepherd?
German Shepherds can range from 10k dollars to many but one of the most expensive German Shepherd pups named Kobe was recently sold in South Africa. It was sold at a fascinating price of 25k dollars. Isn’t that concerning? Well, no comments on that.
Summary
In this arena of dogs, it is pretty easy for all of us to put our focus on how they look. “20 Dogs That Look Like German Shepherds” literally explains that no matter if these species are similar to German Shepherds, they still have their own identity due to which they are bought frequently across the globe.
I tried my level best to bring authentic and precise information for all of you guys. Thanks for showing your trust and devoting your time. I hope after going through all the stuff that I mentioned above, you are now able to decide which breed is suitable according to your preferences.
