Top 10 Most Popular German Dog Breeds

Germany has a long history of breeding various dog breeds, many of which have gained popularity worldwide! In this blog article, we list the 10 most popular German dog breeds in order of their popularity. We also go into some of the great qualities of each of these dogs to give a better understanding as to why they became so popular.

#10 - Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer was the original Schnauzer-type dog and was such a success that it later inspired both the Giant and the Miniature Schnauzer Breeds. It is important to note that each one of these Schnauzers is its own distinct breed. Originally bred in Germany, the Standard Schnauzer has been depicted in various artworks through the years, which tells us that this pup has been around for many centuries. A well-trained Standard Schnauzer will be as loyal as they come toward their families and make an excellent companion for a more active owner. The Standard Schnauzer is both agile and athletic, so having them by your side for a run will be a pleasure.

#9 - German Shorthaired Pointer

The history of the GSP goes back to Germany in the 1800s when locals were aiming to produce the perfect bird-hunting dog. This breed became extremely popular among hunters for their incredible abilities but also due to their great attitudes. The GSP is a pleasure to be around, as they have a happy demeanor and always seem enthusiastic about any activity - especially if it involves physical exercise. These dogs are still very much involved in the hunting world today and are among the best dogs in competitive hunting events. These mid-sized pups typically weigh between 45-70 pounds.

#8 - Weimaraner

The breed is often referred to as "Gray Ghosts" or "Silver Ghosts" because of their sleek gray or silver coats. This beautiful-looking dog loves being with its family and will follow them all the time, which in turn has also earned them the nickname "shadow". The Weimaraner will make a great family pet for any owner that can keep up with their high-strung nature. The breeds' initial purpose was to serve as a hunting dog that could take on large animals such as deer, wolves, and even bears. For these kinds of jobs, the dog needed to have an excessively high energy level and a great degree of stamina.

#7 - Great Dane

These dogs are known to have a very sweet, calm, and playful nature. They enjoy living with the family and making close bonds with their owners. The Great Dane certainly lives up to its name. Growing up to 32 inches and weighing up to 175 pounds, this dog makes its presence known. Seeing this breed on the street will definitely have you taking a second glance, not just because of its immense size but also due to its powerful, noble stance.

#6 - Dachshund

The dog breed that will make anyone passing by have an ear-to-ear smile. With its long body, short legs, barrel chest, and intellectual-looking facial expressions, the Dachshund will instantly put you in a great mood. These pups make great family dogs and are nothing short of entertaining. They are very playful, and their fun mood is contagious. Today, these pups are typically bred to be companions, however, you will still notice their hunting instincts come out, whether it be their love to dig or their desire to chase small animals. These dogs typically weigh between 16-32 pounds and are super intelligent.

#5 - Miniature Pinscher

The "Min Pin," as they are often referred to, was originally bred in Germany and has been around for at least a few hundred years. The initial purpose of this dog was to hunt rats in homes and stables. This dog is known as the "King of Toys". The Miniature Pinscher did not earn this nickname without reason, they are fearless, confident, and always ready for some action. While they only weigh up to 11 pounds, these little guys are not your average lap dog and have quite the personality. For its weight, this breed is quite strong. 

#4 - Boxer

The personality of these dogs can be best described as friendly, playful, and clownish. They love spending time with their people and are especially cuddly. These dogs are by no means small in size, but that will never stop them from hopping right onto your lap. The Boxer is best suited for an owner that loves to play with their dog and perhaps one that could also put up with a little bit of mischief. It should not surprise you to catch your Boxer with one of your shoes in their mouth!

#3 - Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher has become one of the most recognizable and popular breeds in the United States. With their sleek coat, athletic build, and tall, elegant look, it would be difficult to mistake them for any other breed. The Dobermann, as they are often referred to, is a loyal companion that enjoys being in a family environment, they will display tons of affection toward the people they love. The Dobie is a natural guard dog. This means that they have a strong, fearless character and will protect their families and their homes at all costs. These pups are fairly large, typically weighing between 60-80 pounds, so they are quite capable of handling just about any threat.

#2 - Rottweiler

This German-originating breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Roman Molossus. The Rottweiler has been around for a very long time and was initially bred to drive cattle to the market for butchering. The Rottweiler has been a working dog since the beginning of their existence, and this is still what they enjoy doing most. These dogs are also extremely loving towards their families. The Rott looks tough on the outside, but they have warm, gentle eyes that tell a different story. The Rottie will quickly become your best friend, and there are not many dogs that are quite as loyal as them. As big and tough as this dog is, they will love their families unconditionally and display plenty of affection.

#1 - German Shepherd

Also known as an "Alsation," this working dog is one of the most well-known and recognizable breeds. The German Shepherd is incredibly intelligent and is capable of just about any task that you train it to perform. These pups will be as loyal as they come toward their owners and will always be ready to protect them at all costs. While notorious for police/military work, such as searching for drugs, these dogs are also commonly used as guidance/therapy dogs. In recent history, the German Shepherd became especially famous for bravely searching through the ruins after the 9/11 attacks to assist in locating survivors.