German Shepherds are one of those breeds that everyone recognizes. We all know they’re loyal, smart, and often seen working with police or in movies. But there’s so much more to these incredible dogs than what meets the eye. Here are 12 things you probably didn’t know about German Shepherds, even if you consider yourself a fan.
1. They Started Out as Sheepdogs
While we often think of German Shepherds as police dogs or military heroes, they actually got their start in the fields. In the late 19th century, Captain Max von Stephanitz wanted to create the perfect herding dog in Germany.
He wanted a dog that was intelligent, strong, and obedient, and that’s exactly what the German Shepherd became. Their herding roots explain a lot about their natural instincts today, ever notice how your German Shepherd tends to “herd” kids or other pets? It’s in their DNA!
2. They Were War Heroes Before They Were Movie Stars
German Shepherds have been serving in the military since World War I. They were used to carry messages, lay communication cables, and even help medics find wounded soldiers on the battlefield.
Their bravery and ability to follow commands under pressure made them invaluable. Some of these dogs were recognized as actual war heroes, receiving medals for their service. Imagine having a furry soldier by your side who not only follows orders but can also sense danger before it happens.
3. Smarter Than You Think
Yes, we all know German Shepherds are smart, but did you know they rank as the third most intelligent dog breed? Only Border Collies and Poodles top them. Their intelligence goes beyond learning simple commands. They can understand complex tasks and even pick up on subtle cues from their handlers.
If you’ve ever seen a German Shepherd working with a police officer or guiding someone as a service dog, you know just how intuitive they can be. They often seem to know what you’re going to ask them before you even say it.
4. Super Sniffers
German Shepherds have an incredible sense of smell about 225 million scent receptors, compared to our measly 5 million. This super-sniffing ability makes them some of the best dogs for detection work.
Whether it’s tracking down criminals, finding explosives, or even detecting illnesses like cancer, their noses are trained to pick up on the tiniest scent particles. They can detect changes in a person’s scent, which can indicate emotions like stress or fear. That’s why you’ll often see them working in airports or in other high-security areas.
5. Not Just Black and Tan
When you think of a German Shepherd, you probably picture that classic black-and-tan coat. But did you know they come in a range of colors? There are sable German Shepherds, all-black ones, and even all-white ones. Some even have liver or blue coloring, although those aren’t accepted by the American Kennel Club’s breed standards. Still, it’s pretty cool to know that there’s a variety of “looks” for this breed, even if they all share the same iconic silhouette.
6. Double Coat, Double the Grooming
German Shepherds have a double coat, which is why they’re so good at handling different weather conditions. The outer coat is water-resistant, while the undercoat keeps them warm. This means they can adapt to both hot and cold climates.
However, this double coat also means they shed a lot! If you have one, you probably already know that vacuuming becomes part of your daily routine, especially during their shedding seasons in spring and fall. It’s a small price to pay for all that fluffy love, right?
7. Loyal to the Core
If you’ve ever owned a German Shepherd, you know just how loyal they can be. These dogs form deep bonds with their families and are incredibly protective. They can be wary of strangers, which makes them excellent guard dogs.
But this loyalty means they can also become overly protective if not properly socialized. The key is to expose them to different people, places, and situations when they’re young. A well-socialized German Shepherd will be friendly yet always alert, ready to protect their loved ones if needed.
8. Fantastic with Kids (With the Right Training)
German Shepherds can be wonderful family dogs, but it all comes down to training and socialization. They tend to be patient and protective, making them great companions for kids.
However, because of their size and energy, they can accidentally knock over small children if they get too excited. That’s why it’s important to teach both the dog and the kids how to interact safely. When raised in a loving environment, a German Shepherd can become a child’s best friend and protector.
9. Stars of the Silver Screen
Did you know one of the earliest movie stars was a German Shepherd? Rin Tin Tin was a German Shepherd rescued from a World War I battlefield. He went on to star in Hollywood films in the 1920s, becoming a household name and even helping to boost the popularity of the breed in America.
Today, German Shepherds still appear in movies and TV shows, often portraying brave and loyal characters. They’re natural performers, thanks to their intelligence and trainability.
10. Born Athletes
If you’ve ever seen a German Shepherd in action, you know they’re built for speed and agility. They’re natural athletes with strong, muscular bodies. This is why they excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials.
They love having a job to do, whether it’s navigating an obstacle course or playing an intense game of fetch. Keeping them physically and mentally stimulated is crucial. A bored German Shepherd can become destructive, so they need plenty of exercise and challenges to keep them happy.
11. Floppy Ears at First
One of the most iconic features of the German Shepherd is their large, pointy ears. But here’s something you might not know: they’re born with floppy ears! As puppies grow, their ears start to stand up, usually around five months old.
Sometimes, their ears may take longer to perk up, and in some cases, they might need a little help through taping (which doesn’t hurt them). Once those ears stand tall, they give the breed its distinct and alert look.
12. They Need a Job to Stay Happy
German Shepherds were bred to work, and that drive still runs deep in the breed. Whether it’s herding livestock, assisting in police work, or simply being a loyal companion, they need a sense of purpose.
If they don’t have a job, they’ll make one up, sometimes to the detriment of your shoes or furniture. Mental and physical stimulation is key. Training sessions, puzzle toys, and regular exercise are essential to keep them engaged and content.
Conclusion
German Shepherds are truly one-of-a-kind dogs. They’re more than just loyal and smart, they’re complex, talented, and full of surprises. Whether they’re serving in the military, playing with kids in the backyard, or starring in movies, these dogs bring something special to every role they take on.
If you’re lucky enough to have one, you know that life with a German Shepherd is never boring. They keep you on your toes, make you feel safe, and most importantly, become a part of your family in the most loving way possible.