Did you notice there are different types of German Shepherds, but you don’t know exactly how many types of this dog breed even exist? Perhaps you didn’t know that there are different types of German Shepherds, and you were surprised when you discovered more types of this dog.
If you have been in this situation, don’t worry! We know how confusing it is at the beginning… German Shepherds are amazing dogs and one of the most popular and smartest dogs on the planet!
The first-ever German Shepherd (Horand von Grafrath) was developed in the late 1800s by Max von Stephanitz, and since then, this dog breed has evolved into different German Shepherd types.
In this article, you will discover all types of German Shepherds (accepted and non-accepted), and we’ll also talk about different types of German Shepherd color coats.
Let’s not waste any second, and jump right into the topic!
Different types of German Shepherd dog
German Shepherds have two main categories (bloodlines): working line and show line, and each category has its sub-categories. The working line is more often used for different jobs in the military, police, and other Special Forces, while the show line is a more “friendly” dog which is a perfect choice as a family dog.
These are 5 types of German Shepherds:
- East German Working Line
- West German Working Line
- Czech German Shepherd
- American/Canadian Show Line
- West German Show Line (European Showline)
Working line German Shepherds, we can classify into three different groups (types):
- East German Working Line
- West German Working Line
- Czech German Shepherd
Show line German Shepherds we can classify into three different groups (types):
- American/Canadian Show Line
- West German Show Line (European Show line)
Now that we know which types of German Shepherds exist let’s compare them and see which one is right for you!
Working line vs Show line German Shepherd
Even if this is the same dog breed (German Shepherd), there is some difference between these types in their behavior, health, and power.
As a dog breed, German Shepherd was developed to work as a herding dog with an extremely high level of loyalty. Over time, they proved their power and loyalty and easily became military dogs in World War I and World War II.
After the war ended, and after the dogs were replaced by “robot guards”, the German Shepherd dog started working as a police dog or service dog.
These aren’t the only two jobs that this dog breed has. Many people have started organizing sports events for German Shepherds, like Schutzhund Championships, tracking competitions, agility competitions, dog show championships, etc.
Each German Shepherd type has its advantages and disadvantages; in this blog post, we'll cover all of them.
The working line German Shepherd dog
The working line is a stronger German Shepherd who loves and enjoys hard work. They can work all day without getting too much tired.
The owners of working line German Shepherd dogs usually work with their dogs every day for at least 2-4 hours. They are highly driven energy dogs, and you need to invest a lot of time, energy, and money, in that German Shepherd type.
If you want a German Shepherd dog and will be a first-time German Shepherd owner, we highly recommend you skip this German Shepherd type and buy (or adopt) a show line.
If you don’t invest a decent amount of time in your working line GSD, and he doesn’t have proper treatment (get mentally and physically stimulated), their behavior can become destructive, and trust us; you don’t want to be in that position.
Besides, the working line German Shepherd is healthier, less prone to diseases like hip and elbow dysplasia.
Working-line German Shepherds are known for being healthier than show-line Shepherds for a few reasons. These dogs have a more consistent gene pool with fewer inbreeding issues, making them less prone to genetic health problems like hip and elbow dysplasia.
Working line Shepherds also have a more physical lifestyle due to the tasks they are asked to perform, leading to stronger muscles and overall better physical health.
Show line German Shepherd dog
The show line is a more friendly German Shepherd type and less energy-driven dog. First-time dog owners and families who want to get a German Shepherd dog usually choose this type of German Shepherd for several different reasons:
- They are a more friendly dog
- You don’t need to invest much time as for working line
- They are less expensive
- Great companion dogs
Show-line German Shepherds can also do the same jobs as the working line, but usually, the working line will always outperform the show-line in these tasks.
But this doesn’t mean the working line is better than the show line; everyone has their purpose. For example, in most cases, the show line is almost always a better family dog than the working line because of its temperament.
As we mentioned before, if you will become a first-time dog owner or German Shepherd owner, get a show line. Over time, you'll realize that you have made the right decision.
Different types of Working Line German Shepherd dog
There are three different types of working-line German Shepherd dogs: West German Working Line German Shepherds, East German Working Line German Shepherds (also known as Deutsches Demokratische Republik - DDR), and Czech German Shepherds.
West German Working Line German Shepherd
The West German Working Line German Shepherd was created after the division of Germany into East Germany and West Germany. In 1961, during the Cold War, the German Democratic Republic built the wall to prevent its population from escaping Soviet-controlled East Berlin to West Berlin. That wall divided one country into two countries.
With the division of German, there was also a division of breeders of the most popular breed at that time, the German Shepherd dog.
That is how the East German Shepherd and West German Shepherd were born.
The West German Working line German Shepherd is considered the closest ancestor of the first German Shepherd dog, which Max Vom Stephanitz developed.
If you plan to have, or you have already, West Working German Shepherd, keep in mind that these are working, high-energy driven dogs, and you need to exercise a lot with them.
Photo source: Lunaurum
During the division of German and German Shepherd breeders to West and East, there is a bigger chance of West German Working line German Shepherds being more prone to hip dysplasia. If you plan to buy West Working GSD, educate yourself and learn what supplements and dog food are best for this German Shepherd type.
Mild health problems of West German Working Line German Shepherd:
- Allergies
- Digestive Problems
- Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
- Skin Allergy Issues
- Cardiac Disease
Serious health problems of West German Working Line German Shepherds:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye Disorders
- Epilepsy
- Bloat/Gastric Torsion
West German Working Line German Shepherd Characteristics
| Price | $3,000-$9,000 (upper scale) |
| Height | 22-24"female (56-61cm); 24-26" male (61-66cm) |
| Colors | Black & Red, Black & Tan, Bi-Color |
| Weight | 50-70lbs female (23-31kg); 65-90lbs male (30-40kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Suitable for | Family or as a working dogs |
| Temperament | Dedicated, confident, obedient, protective, and energetic |
| Exercise needs | 2-4 hours daily |
| Popularity scale | 5/10 |
East German Working Line German Shepherd
This German Shepherd type arose from dividing one state into two parts. The East German Working Like German Shepherd is also known as Deutsches Demokratische Republik (DDR), and over the last few years and decades, their popularity has massively grown.
Their name is derived from the official name of Germany at the time, Deutsche Demokratische Republik, which translates to the Federal Republic of Germany.
The East German Shepherd breeding program was developed to meet the country's changing security needs.
Photo source: DAK's Dog Ranch
Unfortunately, this type of German Shepherd was also popular during World War II. Everyone who knows German Shepherds knows they are strong, fast, and incredibly smart, and that’s why they were a perfect “war tool” at that time.
Today, East German Working Line German Shepherd usually works as a service or working dog with police, military, and other Special Forces. This GSD type is also popular among lovers of German Shepherd dogs who enjoy their beauty and dog sports.
Most owners who decide to get this type of German Shepherd work with them every day. They’re a huge responsibility, and to own one of these dogs, you need to know them very well, have time to work with them, and have money because they know it to be expensive.
The biting power of East German Working Line German Shepherd can go up to 230 PSI (pounds of pressure). This bite power can sometimes cause serious damage; in some cases, a bite of this GSD can be life-threatening.
But you should not forget their loyalty. This dog breed is one of the most loyal dog breeds on the planet, and everyone who respects them will be remembered.
According to Current Biology, dogs can remember actions and things, and if you treat them right, your family will be in safe paws.
East German Working Line German Shepherd is more energy driven than West German Working Line German Shepherd, and you will need to exercise more with them. The recommendation is at least 2 hours daily (not including walk time).
Mild health problems of East German Working Line German Shepherd:
- Allergies
- Digestive Problems
- Skin Allergy Issues
- Cardiac Disease
Serious health problems of East German Working Line German Shepherd:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye Disorders
- Epilepsy
East German Working Line German Shepherd Characteristics:
| Price | $4,000-$7,500 (upper scale) |
| Height | 22-24"female (56-61cm); 24-26" male (61-66cm) |
| Colors | Black & Red, Sable, Bi-Color, Black |
| Weight | 50-70lbs female (23-31kg); 65-90lbs male (30-40kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Suitable for | Family or as a working dogs |
| Temperament | Assertive, fearless, vigilant, hard-working, and devoted |
| Exercise needs | 2-4 hours daily |
| Popularity scale | 5/10 |
Czech German Shepherd Dog
The Czech Working Line German Shepherd, also known as the Czechoslovakian shepherd, originated in the totalitarian (communist) Czech Republic. Czech German Shepherd is known as a highly driven dog. Like other working-line German Shepherds, this German Shepherd has a straighter back and a more athletic frame that allows them to perform physically demanding tasks.
The breeding of Czech Working German Shepherd dogs started in 1955 at a kennel run by the Czechoslovakian Army's Pohranicni Straze (Border Control) division. After the reunification of Germany, this breed also became popular as a great family dog.
Photo source: thewrathof_hades
They were predominantly bred from DDR German Shepherds. Therefore, they have a lot in common regarding looks and temperament. They are admired for their hard work ethic, courage, and capacity to learn new things.
But when you compare these two German Shepherd types, Czech German Shepherds is more driven than West or East Working Line German Shepherd dog.
Czechoslovakian German Shepherd is a great working dog but can also be a great family dog. There are no secrets that this dog loves to work, and as for the other two working lines, you’ll need to exercise with this dog for at least 2-4 hours per day.
The Czech German Shepherd dog is also a great choice if you want to enjoy dog training and dog sports, such as Schutzhund, agility sports, tracking, and more.
The Czech German Shepherd is a very healthy and strong dog, but it can be susceptible to several congenital diseases that can be painful for them and costly for you.
Mild health problems of Czech Working Line German Shepherd:
- Cataracts
- Skin allergies
- Food allergies
- Corneal dystrophy
Serious health problems of Czech Working Line German Shepherd:
- Bloat
- Hip dysplasia
- Aortic stenosis
- Cardiomyopathy
- Osteochondrosis
Czech Working Line German Shepherd Characteristics
| Price | $3,000-$6,000 (upper scale) |
| Height | 22-24"female (56-61cm); 24-26" male (61-66cm) |
| Colors | Black & Tan, Sable, Bi-Color |
| Weight | 50-70lbs female (23-31kg); 65-90lbs male (30-40kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Suitable for | Family or as a working dogs |
| Temperament | Driven, versatile, determined, responsive, and reliable |
| Exercise needs | 2-4 hours daily |
| Popularity scale | 6/10 |
American/Canadian Show Line German Shepherd
Show-line in the United States German Shepherds, often known as AKC lines, are dogs that were bred to compete in dog shows in the United States. The initial breed was popularized in the United States because of a Shepherd who won a dog competition in the early twentieth century.
After seeing this new, striking dog breed win the competition, many people were encouraged to start breeding Shepherds for domestic and competitive purposes.
After World War I, the German Shepherd started to gain popularity quickly across the globe. The first German Shepherd in the United States of America was the Queen of Switzerland, registered in the late 1920s.
German Shepherd loves to work, no matter what type you have, but when you compare Show line vs. Working line German Shepherd, the working line is far more energy-driven.
This can be your perfect GSD type if you’re a first-time German Shepherd owner. You can invest every day 60-90min of training (not including regular walks), and your German Shepherd will be happy with that, whereas, for the working line, you need to train with them every day for around 2-4 hours.
American German Shepherd is a healthy GSD type. Still, unfortunately, as with every GSD type, this dog was prone to some diseases, like Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Degenerative Myelopathy, and Bloat (GDV).
As for the price, we'll be completely honest with you. Being a German Shepherd owner isn’t cheap at all. You need to invest money in good food, supplements, high-quality equipment, and everything that will cost you a lot.
If you’re not financially stable, please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy. If you’re wondering what the price of that dog is, you can read your blog about how much it costs a German Shepherd dog and discover how much you should pay for a puppy.
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But this German Shepherd type is perfect for new owners and families wanting to buy a puppy. They are good with kids, other pets, and dogs, and most importantly, they’re extremely loyal.
Are you a huge fan of dog sports? Having a Show line instead of a working line doesn’t mean your German Shepherd can’t compete in dog sports. The best events and dog sports for your German Shepherd show line are dog shows, agility competitions, obedience competitions, herding trials, tracking, and more.
Mild health problems of American/Canadian Show Line German Shepherd:
- Cataracts
- Skin allergies
- Food allergies
- Corneal dystrophy
Serious health problems of American/Canadian Show Line German Shepherd:
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Cardiomyopathy
- Osteochondrosis
- Aortic Stenosis
American/Canadian Show Line German Shepherd Characteristics
| Price | $2,000-$4,000 (upper scale) |
| Height | 22-24"female (56-61cm); 24-26" male (61-66cm) |
| Colors | Black & Tan, Black & Red, Black & Cream |
| Weight | 50-70lbs female (23-31kg); 65-90lbs male (30-40kg) |
| Lifespan | 8-12 years |
| Suitable for | Family or as a working dogs |
| Temperament | Stable, predictable, calm, gentle, and friendly |
| Exercise needs | 1-2 hours daily |
| Popularity scale | 8/10 |
West German Show Line German Shepherd Dog
The West German Shepherd is the opposite of the East German Shepherd and is said to be the most closely related breed line to Max von Stephanitz's original dog. West German Shepherds are available in both show and working lines, but show lines are the most popular because their appearance is regarded as the breed standard.
Their backs are more slanted than an East German Shepherd's and aren't as physically robust, yet they can still hold their own.
Photo source: Vom Ragnar
If you compare a West German Show Line German Shepherd to the American Show Line, you'll notice that the West German Line is not as "lazy" as their American peers. They are better house protectors and more excited about training and hard work.
Like American Show Line, the West German Show Line is also a great choice for first-time German Shepherd or dog owners. This GSD type is an excellent family dog.
They are loyal, very protective, and love to be always in good company. No matter how big and scary they look, they are friendly, especially with the children, but you should never leave your kids alone with your German Shepherd until they are big enough to understand what it means to be a responsible person.
The recommended activity time for a West German Shepherd is around 60-120 minutes per day (not including walking). If you don’t treat them properly, they can become “destroying machines” and depressed. Make sure that you every day tire your German Shepherd. A tired dog is a healthy and good dog.
Mild health problems of West German Shepherd Show Line German Shepherd:
- Cataracts
- Skin allergies
- Food allergies
- Corneal dystrophy
- Osteochondrosis
Serious health problems of West German Shepherd Show Line German Shepherd:
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Cardiomyopathy
- Aortic Stenosis
West German Show Line German Shepherd Characteristics
| Price | $2,000-$5,000 (upper scale) |
| Height | 22-24"female (56-61cm); 24-26" male (61-66cm) |
| Colors | Black & Tan, Black & Red, Black & Cream |
| Weight | 50-70lbs female (23-31kg); 65-90lbs male (30-40kg) |
| Lifespan | 8-12 years |
| Suitable for | Family or as a working dogs |
| Temperament | Confident, poised, obedient, composed, and graceful |
| Exercise needs | 1-2 hours daily |
| Popularity scale | 8.5/10 |
West German Show Line vs. American Show Line German Shepherd
The dog's posture is the most noticeable distinction between a German-bred and an American Shepherd. The American German Shepherd's back has a downward slope and severely slanted hip joints, whereas German Shepherds of German lines have a straight back.
These characteristics give the American dog a longer appearance and allow for the "flowing gait" that is highly commended in the show ring in the United States. They also differ in color and size, with German Shepherds being larger and darker than American Shepherds.
Bloating, hip dysplasia (because of their slanting back), and allergies are among the health issues that American German Shepherds face.
Due to their straighter and more balanced stance, German show lines are less likely to develop hip problems. They can also withstand more pain. They are more stable and healthier due to their standardized breeding and intensive training regimens.
What is the largest breed of German Shepherd?
The West German Show Line German Shepherd is most commonly the largest shepherd type. On average, females are around 23 to 25 inches in height at the shoulder and weigh 55 to 75 pounds. Males are around 25 to 27 inches in height at the shoulder and weigh 70 to 95 pounds on average.
Many people think that King Shepherd is the largest German Shepherd dog, but in fact, King Shepherds are not a type of German Shepherd dog breed.
This dog breed mixes German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, and/or Great Pyrenees.
Two Americans, Shelley Watts-Cross and David Turkheimer, created the King Shepherd dog breed in 1990. This breed is still in the early stages of development.
The King Shepherd is bigger than any other German Shepherd. On average, females are around 25 to 27 inches in height at the shoulder and weigh 75 to 110 pounds. Males are around 27 to 31 inches in height at the shoulder and weigh 90 to 150 pounds.
King Shepherd is a devoted and hardworking companion dog. Their confidence, strength, and enormous size would serve as a significant deterrence to any would-be predator. King Shepherds are devoted to their family and are not aggressive dogs.
King Shepherd is a versatile breed. This very intelligent dog can do a wide range of tasks, including sheep herding, child companionship, police work, rescue work, and guide dog work. They get along well with other dogs, but early socialization is crucial for creating a gregarious and friendly puppy.
Currently, King Shepherd is recognized by:
- American Rare Breed Association (ARBA)
- American King Shepherd Club (AKSC)
- American Pet Registry, Inc. (APRI)
- Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA)
- Eastern Rare Breed Dog Club (ERBDC)
- States Kennel Club (SKC)
- World Wide Kennel Club (WWKC)
Different color types of German Shepherd coat
According to the studies (done by AKC), you can find a German Shepherd dog in 11 different coat colors. The coat colors are black; black & cream; black & red; black & silver; black & tan; blue; gray; liver; sable; white; bi-color.
In our table, you can find all standard German Shepherd color types with their registration code.
| Description | Standard color | Code |
| Black | ✓ | 007 |
| Black & Cream | ✓ | 010 |
| Black & Red | ✓ | 014 |
| Black & Silver | ✓ | 016 |
| Black & Tan | ✓ | 018 |
| Blue | ✓ | 037 |
| Gray | ✓ | 100 |
| Liver | ✓ | 123 |
| Sable | ✓ | 164 |
| White | 199 | |
| Bi-Color | ✓ | 454 |
Source: AKC (American Kennel Club)
According to American Kennel studies, strong and rich colors are preferred. Pale, washed-out colors and blues or livers are serious faults, and the white dogs will always be disqualified.
Disqualifications:
- Cropped or hanging ears
- Dogs with noses not predominantly black
- Undershot jaw
- Blue eyes area fault
- Docked tail
- Any dog that attempts to bite the judge
- Long-haired German Shepherds may also be disqualified
- Don't have a black pigment around their eyes, mouth, or nose
- Blue, Liver, White, and Panda are instant disqualifying faults
- Pale, washed-out colors are disqualifying
Some German Shepherds with faulty coat colors can later have serious health issues during poor breeding. One of the biggest problems in this world is BYB (back-yard-breeders).
When we say BYB, we mean breeders that breed dogs incorrectly. German Shepherds with faulty colors shouldn't be bred, no matter how adorable their look in this coat color.
There are many disagreements about this topic. For example, some German Shepherd breeders will say that any German Shepherd with a white coat color is not a pure breed German Shepherd. On the other hand, the owners of white German Shepherds will say that their dog is a pure breed German Shepherd.
This topic is too complicated, and we can't discuss it now. We hope that in the future, we can together discuss this topic. So, for now, we'll skip this topic.
Final words.
One thing that is common to all German Shepherds types is that they have very similar personalities. They are a loyal, intelligent dog breed who loves to work and enjoy good company.
Having a German Shepherd is a great thing, but also a big responsibility. Sometimes, they can be really expensive. Sometimes you will almost pass out trying to tire your German Shepherd to keep him healthy. Sometimes things won’t be easy.
Is the German Shepherd ideal for you, then? Well, it depends. If you’re ready to sacrifice your time and invest that time in this dog to work and train with him, then yes, German Shepherd is a great choice.
And trust us on this one; working with your German Shepherd will make you a better, healthier, and happier person. Don’t be lazy. Get up, and make the impossible possible! You will be surprised how much dogs can improve your life and daily mood!
Frequently asked questions
Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here!
❓What dog is mistaken for a German Shepherd?
The Belgian Malinois is commonly mistaken for a German Shepherd. This is because the two breeds share similar features, and both have medium-sized frame with an athletic build. However, there are distinct differences between them.
The Belgian Malinois has a shorter coat than the German Shepherd and a longer muzzle. Additionally, its ears are more erect and pointing forward, whereas the German Shepherd's ears droop. The Belgian Malinois is also a bit smaller than the German Shepherd, weighing between 50–80 pounds compared to the German Shepherd's 80–100 pounds.
Here are a few more similar dog breeds that look like a German Shepherd:
1. White Swiss Shepherd
2. Belgian Tervuren
3. Groenendael
4. Byelorussian Shepherd (East European Shepherd)
5. Shiloh Shepherd
If you want to discover more dog breeds that look almost the same as a German Shepherd, we highly recommend you read our blog!
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❓How warm is a German Shepherd coat?
Because of their double coat, most German Shepherds can withstand temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C). Even chilly temperatures are not a problem for long-haired GSDs. However, age, health issues, activity level, and weight may all impact their ability to withstand the cold.
The normal human body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). According to some research, the "normal" body temperature can range from 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C).
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German Shepherd fever is defined as a temperature of more than 103°F. Significant and fatal complications might arise when temperatures rise above 106 degrees Fahrenheit (41.1°C).
❓Are Sable German Shepherds rare?
Sable-colored German Shepherds are exceptionally rare. They are enormous, powerful dogs with a lot of energy, making them ideal for heavy work. Despite being bred as herders, they are also highly intelligent and eager to please, making them excellent for training to accomplish difficult jobs such as military and police dog roles.
The German Shepherd's Sable coat results from a dominant gene, and it was the first of the German Shepherd species. It's also the only coat color that hasn't deviated from the German Shepherd's founder's breed ethic.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes German Shepherds, and the sable color is recognized under the breed standard (Registration code 164).
❓Are there 2 types of German Shepherds?
Yes, there are 2 types (bloodlines) of German Shepherd dogs. The first type is Working Line German Shepherd, and the second is Show Line German Shepherd.
As mentioned, Working Line German Shepherds are bred for search and rescue, police work, military service, personal protection, or any other high-energy job. They are usually larger and have higher energy than the Show Line German Shepherds.
Show Line German Shepherds are bred for conformation shows. This means these dogs are bred to the breed standard, including size and color. Show Line German Shepherds are usually smaller than Working Lines but still follow the same standard. They have a moderate energy level and are better suited for pet or show purposes.
❓Are German Shepherds different from other dogs?
Yes, German Shepherds are different from other dogs in many ways. First and foremost, they are known for their intelligence. German Shepherds have been bred to be loyal, obedient, and highly trainable. This is why they often excel as service and working dogs, such as police K-9s and military dogs.
They also have a double coat that protects them from the elements. And, of course, they are recognizable by their iconic black and tan coloration. All these traits make German Shepherds a unique breed.
Overall, German Shepherds are one of the most beloved breeds in the world because of their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature.
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❓What is the rarest type of German Shepherd dog?
The rarest type of German Shepherd dog is the East German Working Line German Shepherd (also known as Deutsches Demokratische Republik - DDR).
On November 9th, 1989, when the Berlin Wall fell, there was a crossbreeding of eastern and western German Shepherds.
A few months after the border opened, roughly 50,000 guards were relieved of their duties, and the DDR dogs were either left to die, sold to other people who would employ them for similar tasks, or abandoned.
Because of that, the number of pure-breed East German Shepherds has significantly decreased.
There are still many breeders all over the world that are putting a lot of effort into maintaining the breed with a healthy bloodline.
They attempt to maintain the DDR line nearly as possible to the original East German dog's specifications.
