German dog breeds: overview and characteristics

Germany is famous not only for its rich history and culture, but also for one of the largest groups of dog breeds. What makes them different?

German dogs have absorbed the best qualities of the culture of their homeland – poise, devotion, quick wits. Among the Germans there are both excellent watchmen or bodyguards, as well as cheerful companions for a city apartment.

Small breeds

Affenpinscher – This is a dwarf representative of the pinscher, which has a hard coat and increased shaggyness on the muzzle. Affenpinscher does not tolerate loneliness, but does not get along well with other pets.

Miniature Pinscher – active adventurer, cunning and quick-witted. These small German dogs are able to get along with other animals, with the exception of rodents and birds. They get along well with children, but selectively.

Pomeranian Spitz – fluffy, similar to a toy, usually reaches a weight of no more than 3,2 kg. These are active and talkative dogs that are suitable for conscious children, although they can make friends with babies. 

Medium breeds

german pinscher – a rare breed of medium-sized dogs with more than a century of history. German Pinschers get along well with other dogs, but misunderstandings can arise with cats due to the high activity of representatives of this breed.

Keeshon they are distinguished by an unusual wolf coat color, and also adore forays into nature. They will become the best friends of mushroom pickers, fishermen and just lovers of country picnics.

German Jagd Terriers quite stubborn, need training and long walks. They have a high pain threshold, which can lead to serious injuries while hunting.

Cromforlander – a fairly rare breed of dog that was bred in the XNUMXth century and has since established itself as an excellent companion. She is suitable for life both in a country house and in a city apartment.

Standard Schnauzers – playful and active dogs, often found in search services. They are well suited to the role of watchmen, unpretentious and quick-witted.

Large breeds

Boxer – a fearless and courageous dog, which will make an excellent watchman. In addition, these dogs easily find a common language with children and love to play in good company and relax on the couch. 

dobermans can be both excellent companions, watchmen and just favorites of the whole family. They are alert, friendly and infinitely devoted to their household.

German Shepherd – one of the most recognizable German breeds, and also included in the list of the smartest dogs in the world. These loyal and obedient dogs lend themselves well to training, are in dire need of physical activity and feel most comfortable in private homes.

Rottweilers require experience in training from the owner, otherwise they can cause a lot of trouble. They are friendly and get along well with other pets they grew up with.

weimaraner – a hound breed with a good disposition, excellent hunting instinct and balanced character. Weimaraner does not like loneliness and gets along well with other dogs, but he rather simply tolerates cats on his territory.

Kurtshaar An energetic and extremely active dog, indispensable for hunting. Like many hunting breeds, the kurtshaar is unlikely to get along with rodents and small birds, but it will definitely find a common language with children, cats and other dogs.

The Great Dane is majestic and stately, he can be considered a real aristocrat among dogs. They are excellent watchmen and bodyguards devoted to their family. A representative of this breed named Zeus is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest dog in the world. His height at the withers exceeded 111 cm.

You can choose a pet with German or English roots, and fall in love with a yard dog you meet in a kennel. A dog of any breed will be happy in a family where he is taken care of and unconditionally loved.

See also: 

• 10 most popular dog breeds in the world
• 4 rarest dog breeds
• Borzoi dogs: breeds and features
• English dog breeds: overview and characteristics