Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around the world.
Origin and History
The Dachshund, which directly translates to “badger dog” in German, is a breed with roots dating back to the 15th century. They were initially bred for their courageous tenacity and excellent scenting abilities. Their long, low bodies, broad chests, and strong forelimbs were designed for hunting badgers, foxes, and other burrow-dwelling animals by tunneling into their dens.
Despite their working-class origins, Dachshunds soon found their way into royal courts across Europe, particularly in Germany. Their bold yet affable nature won them many influential fans, including Queen Victoria of England, who is often credited for increasing the breed’s popularity.
Physical Characteristics
The Dachshund’s most defining physical characteristic is its elongated body and short, sturdy legs, a design that inspired nicknames such as “sausage dog” and “wiener dog.” They come in two sizes – standard and miniature – and three coat types – smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Each variety has its unique charm and appeal, but all Dachshunds share the same robust physique and expressive face.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds are surprisingly strong and resilient. They have a keen sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound. These traits, combined with their strong, muscular bodies and tenacious spirit, make them formidable hunters.
Temperament and Behavior
Dachshunds are renowned for their bold, confident, and sometimes stubborn personalities. They are spirited and playful, yet can display a surprising level of independence. While their hunting instincts can make them relentless and single-minded, they are also incredibly loyal and protective of their families.
They have a strong prey drive and can be quite courageous, often unaware or seemingly indifferent to their small size when confronted with a larger adversary. Because of their hunting roots, they can be somewhat challenging to train and may require a bit of patience and consistency.
Health and Care
Generally, Dachshunds are healthy dogs, but their unique physical structure does make them prone to certain specific health issues. The most common of these is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), which can affect the dog’s spine due to their long back and short rib cage.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet are crucial for this breed to maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of spinal problems. It’s also advisable to minimize situations where they might strain their backs, such as climbing stairs or jumping off furniture.
The Dachshund in Popular Culture
From Picasso’s famed Dachshund, Lump, who often became the subject of his master’s art, to Crusoe, the “celebrity Dachshund” with millions of followers on social media, Dachshunds have long held a cherished place in popular culture.
Their distinctive silhouette is instantly recognizable and has been featured in countless forms of media, from advertising and cartoons to films and literature, further cementing the Dachshund’s status as an iconic breed.
Despite their small stature, Dachshunds possess a big personality. Their boldness, playfulness, and devotion to their families have endeared them to dog lovers everywhere. Whether you’re charmed by their unique physique, captivated by their spirited personalities, or simply intrigued by their rich history, there’s no denying the allure of Germany’s beloved “badger dog.”
German Dog Breeds-There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer-The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman-Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane-The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler-The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer-Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog-“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon-Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating world of the Schnauzer breed, from their historical origins and temperament to care and health considerations.
Historical Origins
The Schnauzer is steeped in history dating back to the Middle Ages, originating in Germany around the 15th century. The term “Schnauzer” is derived from the German word “Schnauze,” which translates to “snout” or “muzzle,” describing the breed’s distinctive bearded face.
Initially, Schnauzers were bred as farm dogs for a variety of tasks. They served as herders, guard dogs, rat catchers, and even transporters of goods. Schnauzers have been depicted in several paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries, signifying their presence and importance during that era.
Schnauzers arrived in America in the early 20th century and quickly became popular, with the first Schnauzer registered with the American Kennel Club in 1904.
Physical Appearance and Size Variations
Schnauzers are renowned for their spirited eyebrows, whiskered muzzles, and robust build. They have dense, wiry coats that come in shades of black, salt and pepper, black and silver, and occasionally pure white.
Schnauzers come in three different sizes: the Miniature, Standard, and Giant Schnauzer. The Miniature Schnauzer stands 12 to 14 inches tall and weighs 11 to 20 pounds. The Standard Schnauzer, often considered the original size, stands 17.5 to 19.5 inches and weighs 30 to 50 pounds. The Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the three, standing 23.5 to 27.5 inches and weighing between 55 to 85 pounds.
Temperament
Schnauzers, regardless of size, are known for their energetic, intelligent, and friendly nature. They are highly trainable and are often known for their spirited, playful nature. With their roots as farm dogs, Schnauzers have an inherent protective instinct and are excellent watchdogs.
While they are generally friendly towards humans, their background as rat-catchers means they might not always get along with other small pets unless they are socialized from an early age. Schnauzers are known to be vocal and are not shy about alerting their families to strangers or perceived threats.
Health and Care
Schnauzers are generally healthy breeds, with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years for Miniature and Standard Schnauzers and 10 to 12 years for Giant Schnauzers. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercises can help ensure a long, healthy life.
Common health issues in the breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, and, in the case of the Miniature Schnauzer, bladder stones. Schnauzers are also prone to skin conditions, so they require regular grooming to keep their distinctive coats in good condition. Regular brushing will help to prevent matting, and professional grooming every few months is recommended to maintain their wiry coat’s texture.
In terms of exercise, Schnauzers are active and energetic dogs that need daily physical and mental stimulation. They excel at various dog sports such as obedience, agility, and herding events.
From the smallest Miniature to the imposing Giant, the Schnauzer is a breed filled with character and vitality. They are versatile, adaptable, and have a rich history that adds to their charm. Whether as a family companion, a protector, or a show dog, the Schnauzer is a dog breed that certainly stands out in the crowd. This German canine stalwart is a testament to the diversity and strength of breeds that have hailed from this region. With their distinctive looks and engaging personality, it’s no wonder that the Schnauzer continues to be a popular choice for dog lovers around the world.
German Dog Breeds-There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer-The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman-Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane-The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler-The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer-Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog-“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon-Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed developed in Germany is of course the German Shepherd, a medium-sized dog that slightly resembles a wolf. This breed is one of smartest in the world and can take on any given task. Due to its psychological and physical qualities, it can be used in the most varied fields of activity: detection, war, intervention, fires, tracking, search and rescue, guide dog and many many other activities.
Learning about German dog breeds not only gives you a great crash course in some of the most beloved and popular dogs of our day, but also offers a unique way to turn back time and learn more about these dogs’ home country and culture.
How many German dog breeds can you name? Let’s see:
Affenpinscher (Monkey dog)
Boxer (German Boxer, German Bullmastiff, Deutscher Boxer)
Dachshund(Standard Dachshund, Miniature Dachshund, Toy Dachshund, Doxie, Teckel, Sausage Dog)
First up on the list of German dog breeds is the Affenpinscher, often called Affens by enthusiasts. At first glimpse, this pint-sized pup seems to be all hair! Chewbacca, anyone???
Affenpinscher is quite a name for a pup that rarely tops 10 pounds. The name literally translates to mean “ape terrier,” a nod to this dog’s shaggy coat and terrier lineage.
These dogs were originally bred to be ratters on farms and in kitchens. But it didn’t take long for this pseudo-serious canine comedian to transition from kitchen help to constant companion. These dogs are great athletes and do well in the show ring as well as in agility training and service dog work.
The Affenpinscher may be small in size, but like many petite pups, he doesn’t seem to realize it. One anecdote describes a teensy Affen facing down a grizzly bear!
BOXER
The Boxer is considered one of the bigger German dog breeds, weighing anywhere from 65 to 80 lbs.
These dogs are all muscle— incredible athletes who exhibit an unfailingly happy, positive nature towards their owners.
However, these dogs were born and bred to work on farms, in the military and police forces, with hunters, and in service work as guide dogs.
Therefore, they really do well when they have a job to do or lots of daily exercise and activity. Not surprisingly, Boxers make excellent guard dogs and watchdogs for many families today!
One fun fact about the Boxer is that this dog gets its name from the way it “boxes” with its front paws when play-sparring or hunting prey. The Boxer has a lovely short, neat coat that requires minimal brushing to maintain.
DACHSHUND
Is there any more classic representative of German hound breeds than the diminutive and distinctive Dachshund. It comes in two sizes: miniature and standard.
So depending on your Doxie’s lineage, she might weigh just 10 lbs or less, or more than 30 lbs! The name dachshund literally translated means “badger dog.”
This is a nod to what these dogs were born and bred to do—chase down badgers and extract them from their underground burrows. This explains their long bodies and low hanging ears, as well as short, sturdy legs. But today, the Doxie is mostly called upon as a lap companion, a job which these dogs are excellent at.
Dachshunds, like many small dog breeds, don’t realize they’re a tiny size and have loud, hound barks, which they have been bred to use. You can expect plenty of alerts from your pint-sized, sausage-shaped watchdog.
Dachshunds can have smooth or wiry-haired coats, short or long. So the amount of brushing and grooming your dog will need can vary depending on the type and length of their coat.
DOBERMAN
The Doberman actually takes its name from its creator, Louis Doberman, a tax collector who wanted a canine companion to protect him during his rounds. Understandably, debtors were never too delighted to see him showing up!
The word “Pinscher” translates to “terrier,” which makes the Doberman a particularly large, sleek and powerful type of terrier. As it turned out, Doberman’s initial canine was very good at his job, and soon the Doberman Pinscher became a fixture in military, police, and service work.
The Doberman has a short, smooth coat that is very easy to groom and maintain. These dogs are also very smart and active and to thrive, require regular exercise.
EURASIER
It is a relatively new breed that was developed by crossbreeding the Chow Chow, Wolfspitz and Samoyed. It is a medium-sized dog, long rather than tall, with a brawny body. The head is strong and conical, similar to a wolf’s, with a flat skull and a frontal wrinkle. It has a conical muzzle and strong jaws. The eyes are medium-sized, slanting and dark. The ears are medium-sized, pointed, triangular, round-ended and erect. The tail is thick, bushy and carried on the back. The fur is double-layered, with a thick, short, fluffy inner layer and outer layer that has medium-length, straight hair that gives it a shaggy look. The hair is short on the muzzle, face and front side of the legs and long on the rest of the body. It can have any color except white and dark red.
It is an intelligent, quiet, well-balanced, alert, pretty friendly and obedient dog that doesn’t bark too much, but sometimes can have an independent thinking. It is affectionate and devoted to its family, it gets along with children, but it is careful and reserved with strangers. Generally it doesn’t have problems with other dogs or other household animals, especially if it was socialized with them from an early age.
GERMAN POINTER
Thanks to its name, the German Pointer is easy to identify as one of the German dog breeds! Like the Dachshund, another German breed, the German Pointer can sport both smooth and wire-haired coat, which can vary in length from short to long.
The wire-haired German Pointer is often slightly bigger and heavier than its smooth-haired cousin. The German Pointer was originally born and bred as a sport and hunting dog.
As such, these dogs are extremely smart and active—this is not a dog who will happily sit on the couch all day. German Pointers are great at agility and obedience training, service work, and tracking work.
GERMAN SHEPHERD
The German shepherd is arguably Germany’s ambassador dog! What is less commonly known is that there are actually several different German shepherds. For simplicity, they can be categorized as either working lines and show lines.
It’s important to be aware that show lines are increasingly plagued with lower back issues on account of the steeply sloping back curve currently prized in the show ring. Overall, the German Shepherd makes a great family companion for active families that like to run, play, and exercise with their dog.
These dogs have thick, double layer coats that shed seasonally, but generally, weekly brushing is sufficient to maintain their coat. German shepherds bond closely with their owners and don’t do well left on their own or cooped up for long hours.
SCHNAUZER
Even today, the Schnauzer is a staple on German farms. Schnauzers are bred in three sizes: miniature, standard, and giant.
All of them are extremely intelligent and share a wiry, close-fitting coat, exaggerated whiskers, and arched eyebrows. Schnauzers make very good family dogs and are great with kids. They are also excellent watchdogs.
It is important to hand-strip (manually remove dead or shed hairs) your Schnauzer’s coat rather than using electric clippers. This allows their coat to retain its protective waterproof properties. These dogs are very sociable and active and don’t do well when left on their own for long periods of time. You will also need to make time daily for exercise and play.
GREAT DANE
There are many opinions regarding the evolution of this breed. In 1876 the Great Dane was proclaimed Germany’s national breed. It is a large-sized dog, with a well-built, square, muscular, sturdy body and an noble and elegant look. The head is long with a square muzzle, equal in length to the skull. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, deeply-set and dark. The ears are medium-sized, drooping but can be cropped to stay erect. The neck is long and brawny. The tail is large and tapers from a broad base to a point at the tip, is kept low at rest and curves when alert. The fur has short, soft hair, close to the body and it can be brown, blue, black, harlequin, striped or with mantle (black with a white collar, chest, nose and feet).
It is a watchful, smart, enthusiastic, playful, calm and sensitive dog. It is very devoted and faithful to its family but especially to one person. Friendly by nature, it accepts other animals and dogs. It gets along well with other dogs. It is not very hospitable with strangers but the friends of the family are accepted straightaway. It isn’t a very noisy dog. It is a one-owner dog. If alienated as an adult, it will never be the same.
HOVAWART
The Hovawart is a medium to large size German dog breed. The name of the breed means “an estate guard dog”, which is the original use for the breed. The breed originated in the Black Forest region and was first described in text and paintings in medieval times. It is a large-sized, strong dog, with a robust build. The head is medium-sized, with the muzzle equal in length to the skull and with a wide, rounded forehead. The eyes are medium-sized and dark. The ears are triangular with pointed tips and drooping. The tail is bushy and long, but without touching the ground. The fur is double-layered, with an outer layer made of soft, glossy, slightly wavy, medium length hair, longer on the neck and tail. It can be black, black with a patch, black with yellow to golden, with a white patch on the chest and the tip of the tail.
It is a brave and watchful dog with a very good sense of smell, well balanced and playful. It is gentle, affectionate, loyal to the family and attached especially to one person. Playful and patient with children, it is reserved with strangers and accepts them only with the master’s approval. It accepts other animals and other dogs, even treating them with indifference if it was socialized from an early age.
MUNSTERLANDER
It is the descendant of the “Hawk dog” from the Middle Ages and the result of the crossbreed between Pointers, Wachtelhunds and Stoberhunds. It was developed mainly in the region Munster from Germany, where comes the name. Through supervised selections were the current specimens were obtained which are very appreciated in Germany and Switzerland.
The Large Munsterländer is a large gundog originating in Germany. It gained recognition in the early 1900s. It differs from the Small Münsterländer due to its size and color, as the breed is only found in solid black or black and white (with black ticking spots allowed).
The Small Munsterländer is similar to its larger cousin but isn’t closely related. The breed was developed in Germany as a gundog capable of hunting on land and in water. They were first used by royal families to hunt alongside their falconers. The breed comes in white and brown with brown ticking acceptable.
LEONBERGER
The Leonberger sure is a looker among German dog breeds! This extra-large fluffy dog can weigh anywhere from 90 to 170+ pounds as an adult, but their long manes make this dog look even larger.
The Leonberger is considered one of the aristocrats of the German breeds and although this dog may be huge in body, they are truly gentle and patient in spirit. Sometimes referred to as Leos by their fans, the Leonberger is a fabulous family dog as well as a great working dog. And a surprisingly good swimmer!
The Leonberger takes its name from its birthplace, the town of Leonberg, Germany. The dog’s creator, Heinrich Essig, wanted to breed a dog that looked like the Leonberg town’s mascot, a lion. When you see this dog, you’ll see he succeeded!
POMERANIAN
No discussion of German dog breeds would be complete without including the Pomeranian, the miniature dazzler hailing from what was once Pomerania and is now part of Western Germany.
In some parts of the world, the Pomeranian is called the Zwergspitz, a nod to the dog ’s Spitz ancestors.
However, it’s fairly safe to say that the Pom, as many fans call them, is hairier than any spitz dog on the planet! Pomeranians are incredibly smart but can be stubborn. They are, however, easy to train. Pomeranians, like many miniature dog breeds, just don’t seem to realize their size, despite the fact that Pom could be described as a big ball of fluff on legs.
The Pomeranian became popular outside of Germany after Queen Victoria, smitten with the breed, took Poms back to England to breed them. Pomeranians require a lot of combing and brushing to maintain their luxurious coat.
ROTTWEILER
This breed is the result of the crossbreeding between the dogs brought by the Roman legions and the German shepherd dogs. The name comes from the town Rottweil, the center of cattle and grain merchants, whom they accompanied and protected. It is widely spread in Europe and also in the USA, where it is very loved.
It is a large-sized dog, with a strong and muscular body that inspires strength. The head is medium-sized, wide, with a short and strong muzzle. The eyes are almond-shaped and dark. The ears are medium-sized, pointed, triangular and drooping. The neck is strong, of medium length and the chest is prominent, wide and brawny. The tail is docked. The coat is short, thick and rough. It is black with reddish-brown patches.
This dog is intelligent, brave, obedient, watchful and steadfast. It is very protective and devoted to the family, but especially to one person and if it was socialized with children from an early age, it will be a great playmate for them. The Rottweiler will defend its master and its territory until the end.
WEIMARANER
The Weimaraner is called the “Grey Ghost” in its home country of Germany. These truly gorgeous dogs and there are many Weimaraner supermodels that have been immortalized by artists.
With their short close coats, Weimaraners are easy to groom. But you’ll need to make time weekly to check and clean your dog’s ears since they hang closely over the ear canals and are prone to infection.
The Weimaraner is a smart, high-energy dog that really needs a lot of daily exercise and activity! If it’s not provided, you can expect your intelligent dog to find her own fun, which may include remodeling your interior décor and perhaps your lawn and garden as well.
The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws as big as an adult’s hands.
A Great Dane is truly a great dog breed — large and noble, commonly referred to as a gentle giant or as the “Apollo of dogs.” Apollo is the Greek god of the sun, the brightest fixture in the sky.
The Great Dane certainly holds stature in the dog world, but though he looks terribly imposing, in reality he’s one of the best-natured dogs around. For all of his size, a Great Dane is a sweet, affectionate pet. He loves to play and is gentle with children.
Despite their names, Great Danes are not from Denmark — the Germans bred Great Danes for hunting and guarding. Some also served in the military. But over the last century, breeders have diminished their prey drive and aggression. Today’s Great Dane will take the couch over combat any time.
This large-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 110-180 pounds and lives an average of 7-10 years.
As puppies, Great Danes can knock over small tables and large children. As adults they can clear a coffee table with a swipe of a tail. Although he may sometimes seem like a bull in a china shop, the biggest thing about the Great Dane isn’t his formidable size (up to 175 pounds), but his heart. He may have been bred to hunt ferocious boars and guard estates, but these days, this tall and elegant dog is better suited to life as a lover, not a fighter. If you’re looking for a gentle giant, this may well be the dog for you.
His size may seem to require its own zip code, but the Dane’s calm nature makes him more suitable to apartment living than many a more anxious or active breed. While puppyhood may be a challenge in an apartment, a well-socialized and well-trained Dane will be perfectly content to have one good 10 or 20-minute walk a day for his exercise.
Because Great Danes have protective natures when their families are involved, it’s essential to teach young dogs not to jump up on people and that nipping or any act of aggression is not allowed. What tends to be laughed off in a tiny dog is no laughing matter in a full-grown dog of this size. Let the Dane’s size itself serve as a deterrent and never encourage aggressive behavior.
7-foot Great Dane Major with his owners Julie and Brian Williams, South Wales
As tall as 32 inches at the shoulder, Danes tower over most other dogs—and when standing on their hind legs, they are taller than most people. These powerful giants are the picture of elegance and balance, with the smooth and easy stride of born noblemen. The coat comes in different colors and patterns, perhaps the best-known being the black-and-white patchwork pattern known as “harlequin.”
Despite their sweet nature, Danes are alert home guardians. Just the sight of these gentle giants is usually enough to make intruders think twice. But those foolish enough to mistake the breed’s friendliness for softness will meet a powerful foe of true courage and spirit. Patient with kids, Danes are people-pleasers who make friends easily.
German Dog Breeds-There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer-The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman-Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane-The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler-The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer-Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog-“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon-Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened.
In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he owned the local dog pound, where he was able to combine a long list of breeds to create a guard dog to protect him. After combining big, fearsome breeds like the German Pinscher, Rottweiler, Greyhound, Great Dane, Weimeraner, German Shorthaired Pointer, Old German Shepherd Dog, and more, Doberman created his prototype: a dog that was strong, fast, durable, loyal, intelligent, and, when he needed to be, ferocious.
After years of development, the end result was what we know today as the Doberman Pinscher, named after the breed’s creator. Made an official breed in the United States 1908, the Doberman has a long history of military and police service. He served as the official War Dog of the US Marine Corps during World War II as a sentry, messenger, and the breed was made famous for its role in Pacific battles in Okinawa and Guam. The Doberman was also used for search-and-rescue when the World Trade Center towers collapsed in 2001.
Now it is one of the most loving, loyal, and protective pets a family can have.
The Doberman has a long muzzle and stands on its toes (not the pads) and is not usually heavy-footed. Ideally, they have an even and graceful gait. Traditionally, the ears are cropped and posted and the tail is docked. However, in some countries it is illegal to do so. Dobermans have markings on the chest, paws/legs, muzzle, above the eyes, and underneath the tail.
Dobermans are well known as intelligent, alert and tenaciously loyal companions and guard dogs. Personality varies a great deal between each individual, but if taken care of and trained properly they tend to be loving and devoted companions. The Doberman is driven, strong and sometimes stubborn. Owning one requires commitment and care, but if trained well, they can be wonderful family dogs. With a consistent approach they can be easy to train and will learn very quickly. If properly trained, they can be excellent with children.
This athletic dog needs brisk walking every day and all-out running as often as possible. Too little exercise and too little companionship can lead to restlessness and other behavioral problems. Mental exercise (advanced obedience, agility, tracking, Schutzhund) is just as important to this thinking breed.
Though some Dobermans are big softies who love everyone, most are reserved with strangers and protective of their family. Early and extensive socialization is mandatory to avoid either shyness or sharpness. Some Dobermans are dominant with other dogs. Some are confirmed cat chasers, while others love small animals.
Some excel in advanced obedience competition, while others are hardheaded and will test to find their place in the pecking order. Calm, consistent leadership is a must, and obedience training must be upbeat and persuasive rather than sharp. This breed does not tolerate teasing or mischief.
German Dog Breeds-There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer-The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman-Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane-The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler-The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer-Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog-“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon-Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman legions traveled in large numbers across the continent. The lack of refrigeration meant soldiers brought herds of cattle for food. Drover dogs kept the herd together and guarded it at night. Around A.D. 74 the Roman army traveled across the Alps and into what is now southern Germany. For the next two centuries the Roman drover dogs were continually used in herding and driving cattle for trade even after the Romans were driven out of the area by the Swabians.
Rottweiler memorial in Rottweil
A town in this region was eventually given the name Rottweil. It became an important trade center and the descendants of the Roman cattle dogs proved their worth by driving the cattle to market and protecting the cattle from robbers and wild animals. The dogs are said to have been used by traveling butchers at markets during the Middle Ages to guard money pouches tied around their necks. The dogs were eventually known as Rottweiler Metzgerhunds, or “butcher dogs”. As railroads became the primary method for moving stock to market, the demand for the Rottweiler breed declined, as did their numbers, so severely diminished by 1882 that a show in Heilbronn, featured only one very poor representative of the breed.
Nowadays the Rottweiler is a breed of domestic dog, regarded as medium-to-large or large. The dogs were known in German as Rottweiler Metzgerhund, meaning Rottweil butchers’ dogs, because their main use was to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat to market. This continued until the mid-19th century when railways replaced droving. Although still used to herd stock in many parts of the world, Rottweilers are now also used as search and rescue dogs, as guard dogs and police dogs.
Rottweilers have a short double coat that’s straight and coarse. The outer coat is medium in length, shorter on the head, ears, and legs; the undercoat is found mainly on the neck and thighs. The amount of undercoat your Rottie has depends on the climate in which he lives. The Rottweiler is always black with markings that are rust to mahogany in color. The markings appear over the eyes, on the cheeks, on each side of the muzzle, on the chest and legs, and beneath the tail. There are also tan lines that resemble pencil marks on the toes.
A well-bred Rottweiler is calm and confident. He’s typically aloof toward strangers, but never timid or fearful. Rottweilers exhibit a “wait-and-see” attitude when confronted with new people and situations. When these characteristics come together as they should, the Rottweiler is a natural guard dog with a mellow disposition who is successful not only in police, military, and customs work, but also as a family friend and protector. Rotties have a natural instinct to protect their families and can be ferocious in their defense. It’s essential to channel their power and protectiveness by providing early socialization, firm, fair, consistent training and leadership, and a regular job to perform. When this doesn’t happen, Rottweilers can become dangerous bullies rather than the companionable guardians they’re meant to be. Rottweilers walk a fine line between protectiveness and aggressiveness. If they aren’t carefully bred for a calm, intelligent temperament and properly socialized and trained, they can become overly protective.
German Dog Breeds-There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer-The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman-Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane-The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler-The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer-Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog-“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon-Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey.
Boxer was bred in Germany from a now-extinct and larger breed of dog called the Bullenbeisser and the Bärenbeisser, commonly used for hunting. When crossed with the English Bulldog (as a result, they have the characteristic square jaw and squared shoulders), the breed was first brought to show in the 1890s.
These dogs were used by German forces during the world wars as guard dogs and couriers. Besides, their function was to pull carts, to fight and to round up livestock. They later became popular theater and circus dogs.
The breed became internationally popular in the 1950s.
Nowadays Boxers are very useful as police dogs as well as service, guide and therapy functions. Boxers have a wide use in military work too. An excellent watchdog, the Boxer will restrain an intruder. They are extremely athletic. This dog needs to go on a daily pack walk. Daily mental and physical exercise is important. They are easy to train (to socialize). This breed typically lives for 10 to 12 years.
The Boxers’ body is compact and powerful with square-shaped proportions. This popular breed of dog is mid-sized (size: 21 – 25 inches, weight: 53 – 70 pounds). They have round, brawny necks that are well-muscled. The head is in proportion with the body. Their front limbs are straight and their tails are carried high. They have long, muscular legs and deep chests for resonant barking. The tails of this breed are usually docked.
The nose is large and black with very open nostrils. The Boxer’s glossy, close-fitting, short-haired coat can be fawn, brindle, red, white, tan, mahogany, and black often with white markings. Dark markings are very likely around the face and eyes. The eyes are dark brown. The ears are set high, either cropped or kept natural, very often surgically altered to make them stand up.
The ideal Boxer is loyal, smart, easily trained, energetic, outgoing, protective and fun-loving.
The main features of a Boxer’s temperament are:
Loyalty;
Calmness;
Fun-loving;
Loving and caring with their families (very good with children);
Intelligence;
Trainability;
Strong will;
Good-nature;
Curiosity;
Friskiness;
Sense of humor;
Courage.
Boxers are known to jump up and use their front paws as if they are boxing. It is one of the reasons of the breed’s name. Boxers like to use their front paws to get into things and move things from place to place, they like to have people’s attention and are also known as the “clown of dogs”. The Boxer’s nature is to protect its owner and his family, they are excellent family pets. These dogs are always eager to work and play. Human leadership is necessary for Boxers. This breed is good for competitive obedience.
They should be trained and properly socialized from the young age. This breed requires a dominant owner and firm, regular training. The main aim is to achieve a pack leader status. Boxers should be sure that all other humans are higher up in the order than the dog. That is the only way to succeed. If they do not take their owner seriously they will be sneaky and hard to control.
German Dog Breeds-There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer-The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman-Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane-The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler-The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer-Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog-“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon-Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.”
– Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide variety of tasks. German Shepherds are family pets, police dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, bomb and drug detection dogs, sheep and cattle herders, hunting companions, guard dogs, obedience champions, avalanche dogs, assistance dogs, show dogs, and more. Regardless of their particular role, German Shepherds are excellent companions provided they receive the attention, training, and exercise they need and feel useful.
This dog breed is only about 100 years old. The breed was originated by Captain Max von Stephanitz. Captain von Stephanitz, of the German infantry, bought sheep-herding dogs (many of them field trial winners) from all over Europe in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s and bred them together to create his ‘ultimate service dog’. He started a registry and stud book. His favourite dog, Hektor, was 1/4th wolf. All the dogs originally imported to the UK & America were proudly traced back to him. After WWI, British and American soldiers, impressed by the abilities of the dog, brought home examples to breed. The breed instantly become popular, both as a family pet and as a working dog. Shortly thereafter, the German Shepherd Dog’s (GSD) name was changed to Alsatian Wolf Dog. Their popularity soared for a while, then fell tremendously as the media sensationalised every remotely negative event that occurred associated with a canine with the word ‘wolf’ in it. There were arguments like this – was the Alsatian Wolfdog the best working / most capable / most intelligent dog that ever walked the face of the earth OR was Alsatian Wolfdog the unpredictable / livestock eating / human attacking beast from hell? The name was eventually changed back in 1977 to German Shepherd Dog, and the GSD soon reached its peak at the top of the most popular dog list.
Von Stephanitz created the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde, or SV, as the official governing body for the breed. The SV then created the Schutzhund trial as a breed test for the German Shepherd Dog, and prohibited the breeding of any dog which could not pass the trial. The purpose of Schutzhund training is to assess and mold the dog’s natural abilities to track, protect, and teach the dog control through obedience. It has been considered by some to be a test for breeding in that during the training the degree to which the dog possesses these working abilities becomes apparent.
The German Shepherd Dog is a large, strong, substantial-looking dog. The fur is a double-coat and can be either short or long haired. It varies in color, coming in many different shades, mostly cream (tan) and brown, but also solid black or white. Dogs with coats that have tri-colored hair (ie. black, brown, red, or white) are called sable or agouti. Different kennel clubs have different standards for the breed according to size, weight, coat color and structure. The GSCs have an average life span of ten to twelve years.
The German Shepherd Dog is an intelligent breed of dog. Because they are eager to please, they are easily trained in obedience and protection. German Shepherd Dogs are often used as working dogs in many capacities, including search and rescue (SAR), military, police or guard dogs. They are also used as assistance dogs / service dogs (such as guide dogs). The original purpose for the German Shepherd, was (not surprisingly) to herd sheep, cattle or any other animal that may require the assistance of a shepherd. Even given the name “shepherd” some people are surprised to hear that these dogs were bred for herding, as the GSD is more often found working as a guard dog, police dog or companion pet than in the field working sheep.
The German Shepherd does not have the “eye” as border collies or other similar breeds. They are trained to follow their instinct, which for the GSD is to “work the furrow”, meaning that they will patrol a boundary all day and restrict the animals being herded from entering or leaving the designated area. It is this instinct that has made the breed superb guarding dogs, protecting their flock (or family) from harm. Your German Shepherd will try to “herd” you and your family. Often they will “follow ahead”, walking in front of you and looking back to make sure you are going where you should. Although the German Shepherd is not used as frequently for herding in present time, there are many breed lines still known for their herding. The breed is naturally loyal, intelligent and protective (which makes it good for police work). German Shepherd has an excellent nose, making it good for tracking and search and rescue work. German Shepherd Dogs are calm and have a steady temperament when well-bred which is why they have been used as “Seeing Eye” dogs. A German Shepherd thrives on regular exercise, mental stimulation and a well-balanced diet.
German Dog Breeds-There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer-The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman-Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane-The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler-The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer-Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog-“The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon-Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
German Dog Breeds - There are over 20 breeds that originated from Germany, some of which make great hunting partners like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Munsterlander or the Dachshund others make excellent guarding dogs like the Rottweiler, Doberman and Leonberger (the gentle lion) and some just make incredible companion dogs, for example the Pomeranian. The most famous breed […]
German Dog Breeds: Boxer - The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. […]
German Dog Breeds: Doberman - Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened. In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman was a tax collector in Apolda, Germany. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t very popular. But luck was on his side: he […]
German Dog Breeds: Great Dane - The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws […]
German Dog Breeds: Rottweiler - The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman […]
German Dog Breeds: Schnauzer - Born from the wide range of German dog breeds, the Schnauzer is a charismatic, courageous, and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. Known for their distinctive whiskered snouts and lively spirit, Schnauzers come in three size variations – Miniature, Standard, and Giant. This article will delve into the fascinating […]
German Shepherd – The Ultimate Service Dog - “The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity and hardness.” – Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of being trained to perform a wide […]
The Dachshund: A Spotlight on Germany’s Endearing Canine Icon - Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, engineering genius, and a love for beer and sausages, also boasts a fine pedigree of dog breeds. Of these, the Dachshund is arguably the most iconic. With their distinctive physique, confident demeanor, and an adventurous spirit, Dachshunds have made their way into millions of homes and hearts around […]
First up on the list of German dog breeds is the Affenpinscher, often called Affens by enthusiasts. At first glimpse, this pint-sized pup seems to be all hair! Chewbacca, anyone???
The Boxer is considered one of the bigger German dog breeds, weighing anywhere from 65 to 80 lbs.
Is there any more classic representative of German hound breeds than the diminutive and distinctive Dachshund. It comes in two sizes: miniature and standard.
The Doberman actually takes its name from its creator, Louis Doberman, a tax collector who wanted a canine companion to protect him during his rounds. Understandably, debtors were never too delighted to see him showing up!
It is a relatively new breed that was developed by crossbreeding the Chow Chow, Wolfspitz and Samoyed. It is a medium-sized dog, long rather than tall, with a brawny body. The head is strong and conical, similar to a wolf’s, with a flat skull and a frontal wrinkle. It has a conical muzzle and strong jaws. The eyes are medium-sized, slanting and dark. The ears are medium-sized, pointed, triangular, round-ended and erect. The tail is thick, bushy and carried on the back. The fur is double-layered, with a thick, short, fluffy inner layer and outer layer that has medium-length, straight hair that gives it a shaggy look. The hair is short on the muzzle, face and front side of the legs and long on the rest of the body. It can have any color except white and dark red.
Thanks to its name, the German Pointer is easy to identify as one of the German dog breeds! Like the Dachshund, another German breed, the German Pointer can sport both smooth and wire-haired coat, which can vary in length from short to long.
The German shepherd is arguably Germany’s ambassador dog! What is less commonly known is that there are actually several different German shepherds. For simplicity, they can be categorized as either working lines and show lines.
Even today, the Schnauzer is a staple on German farms. Schnauzers are bred in three sizes: miniature, standard, and giant.
There are many opinions regarding the evolution of this breed. In 1876 the Great Dane was proclaimed Germany’s national breed. It is a large-sized dog, with a well-built, square, muscular, sturdy body and an noble and elegant look. The head is long with a square muzzle, equal in length to the skull. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, deeply-set and dark. The ears are medium-sized, drooping but can be cropped to stay erect. The neck is long and brawny. The tail is large and tapers from a broad base to a point at the tip, is kept low at rest and curves when alert. The fur has short, soft hair, close to the body and it can be brown, blue, black, harlequin, striped or with mantle (black with a white collar, chest, nose and feet).
The Hovawart is a medium to large size German dog breed. The name of the breed means “an estate guard dog”, which is the original use for the breed. The breed originated in the Black Forest region and was first described in text and paintings in medieval times. It is a large-sized, strong dog, with a robust build. The head is medium-sized, with the muzzle equal in length to the skull and with a wide, rounded forehead. The eyes are medium-sized and dark. The ears are triangular with pointed tips and drooping. The tail is bushy and long, but without touching the ground. The fur is double-layered, with an outer layer made of soft, glossy, slightly wavy, medium length hair, longer on the neck and tail. It can be black, black with a patch, black with yellow to golden, with a white patch on the chest and the tip of the tail.
It is the descendant of the “Hawk dog” from the Middle Ages and the result of the crossbreed between Pointers, Wachtelhunds and Stoberhunds. It was developed mainly in the region Munster from Germany, where comes the name. Through supervised selections were the current specimens were obtained which are very appreciated in Germany and Switzerland.
The Leonberger sure is a looker among German dog breeds! This extra-large fluffy dog can weigh anywhere from 90 to 170+ pounds as an adult, but their long manes make this dog look even larger.
No discussion of German dog breeds would be complete without including the Pomeranian, the miniature dazzler hailing from what was once Pomerania and is now part of Western Germany.
This breed is the result of the crossbreeding between the dogs brought by the Roman legions and the German shepherd dogs. The name comes from the town Rottweil, the center of cattle and grain merchants, whom they accompanied and protected. It is widely spread in Europe and also in the USA, where it is very loved.
The Weimaraner is called the “Grey Ghost” in its home country of Germany. These truly gorgeous dogs and there are many Weimaraner supermodels that have been immortalized by artists.
The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. Though Irish Wolfhounds are taller as a breed, the world’s tallest dog is a Great Dane. Anyone who’s spent time with one also knows that they’re the world’s biggest lapdogs — literally. These puppies are lounge-y and large, with paws as big as an adult’s hands.
As puppies, Great Danes can knock over small tables and large children. As adults they can clear a coffee table with a swipe of a tail. Although he may sometimes seem like a bull in a china shop, the biggest thing about the Great Dane isn’t his formidable size (up to 175 pounds), but his heart. He may have been bred to hunt ferocious boars and guard estates, but these days, this tall and elegant dog is better suited to life as a lover, not a fighter. If you’re looking for a gentle giant, this may well be the dog for you.
Doberman is a medium-large breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, for his own protection. Here’s how it happened.
Now it is one of the most loving, loyal, and protective pets a family can have.
Though some Dobermans are big softies who love everyone, most are reserved with strangers and protective of their family. Early and extensive socialization is mandatory to avoid either shyness or sharpness. Some Dobermans are dominant with other dogs. Some are confirmed cat chasers, while others love small animals.
The Rottweiler is one of the oldest of herding breeds. With a history possibly dating back to the Roman Empire, the Rottweiler may be a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs – a mastiff-type dog that was a dependable, rugged dog with great intelligence and guarding instincts. During their quest to conquer Europe, the Roman legions traveled in large numbers across the continent. The lack of refrigeration meant soldiers brought herds of cattle for food. Drover dogs kept the herd together and guarded it at night. Around A.D. 74 the Roman army traveled across the Alps and into what is now southern Germany. For the next two centuries the Roman drover dogs were continually used in herding and driving cattle for trade even after the Romans were driven out of the area by the Swabians.
Rottweilers have a short double coat that’s straight and coarse. The outer coat is medium in length, shorter on the head, ears, and legs; the undercoat is found mainly on the neck and thighs. The amount of undercoat your Rottie has depends on the climate in which he lives. The Rottweiler is always black with markings that are rust to mahogany in color. The markings appear over the eyes, on the cheeks, on each side of the muzzle, on the chest and legs, and beneath the tail. There are also tan lines that resemble pencil marks on the toes.
The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting, colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, and white. Boxers have broad, short skulls, have a square muzzle, an underbite, very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey.
The Boxers’ body is compact and powerful with square-shaped proportions. This popular breed of dog is mid-sized (size: 21 – 25 inches, weight: 53 – 70 pounds). They have round, brawny necks that are well-muscled. The head is in proportion with the body. Their front limbs are straight and their tails are carried high. They have long, muscular legs and deep chests for resonant barking. The tails of this breed are usually docked.
Boxers are known to jump up and use their front paws as if they are boxing. It is one of the reasons of the breed’s name. Boxers like to use their front paws to get into things and move things from place to place, they like to have people’s attention and are also known as the “clown of dogs”. The Boxer’s nature is to protect its owner and his family, they are excellent family pets. These dogs are always eager to work and play. Human leadership is necessary for Boxers. This breed is good for competitive obedience.
