German Shepherd dogs are the second most popular dog breed in The United States for a reason. They are intelligent, loyal, and visually stunning. Because of their beautiful appearance, many are curious about other dogs that look similar.
Maybe you need a smaller dog breed for your home or perhaps you want a dog that sheds a little less. Either way, you are going to fall in love with each of these dogs that look like German Shepherds.
4 Types of German Shepherds
Before moving on to completely different dog breeds, let’s review the variations of German Shepherds. These are the five appearance types of GSDs based on their coat patterns.
If you have only seen the most common saddle coated version of the German Shepherd, you might be interested in the other variations. This is useful for those who are narrowing down their German Shepherd dog search.
Saddle Coat German Shepherd
Also known as the black and tan German Shepherd, the saddleback GSD is primarily tan with a saddle pattern of black fur that runs down their back. A variation of this pattern is referred to a blanket back, where the black covers more area of the dog’s back.
White German Shepherd
Since white fur genes are recessive, the white German Shepherd is on the rare side. A GSD with this color often has two parents who are also completely white.
Black German Shepherd
Like the white German Shepherd, black German Shepherds are also rare. According to the American Kennel Club, only 6.8% of German Shepherds have an entirely black coat.
Sable German Shepherd
Sable coat GSDs are characterized by their primarily black fur with a sprinkle of liver, red, gold, parti, white, and/or blue. Their fur can have a camouflage appearance.
Looking for German Shepherd Dog mixes? Check out this list of adorable GSD mix breeds.
10 Dogs That Look Like German Shepherds
Here is a list of some dog breeds commonly mistaken for German Shepherds. Many share similar physical traits such as large pointed ears, masked faces, and brown coloring.
Belgian Malinois
Life Span: 10-14 years
Weight: 55-75 lbs
Temperament: Intelligent, Protective, Obedient, Trainable, High Energy
Coat: Medium, Double-coat
Group: Herding
The Belgian Malinois is a medium-sized dog breed that originates from Belgium. These dogs are often used in military and police work due to their very high intellect, athletic capabilities, and desire to work.
If you have plenty of energy to take this dog out for long daily exercise sessions, they can be an excellent workout buddy. Be prepared to go outdoors a lot!
Carpathian Shepherd / Romanian Shepherd
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Weight: 70-100 lbs
Temperament: Aloof, Loyal, Devoted, Brave
Group: Flock Guard
Coat: Rough, Straight
The Carpathian Shepherd dog originates from the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, where they were used as livestock guardians. These loyal dogs require plenty of early socialization in order to live balanced lives.
Laekenois Shepherd Dog
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Weight: 44-66 lbs
Temperament: Active, Watchful, Protective, Lively, Energetic
This Laekenois Shepherd dog is another Belgian dog with a similar appearance to the German Shepherd. It has a similar temperament and body to the Belgian Malinois.
Groenendael
Lifespan: 13-14 years
Weight: 44-66 lbs
Temperament: Active, Affectionate, Intelligent, Loyal
The Groenendael is a medium-sized herding dog that originates from Belgium. It looks most like the black colored GSD.
Bohemian Shepherd
Lifespan: 9-13 years
Weight: 35-55 lbs
Temperament: Attentive, Courageous, Active, Balanced, Intelligent
Group: Companion
Coat: Long, Thick Undercoat
The Bohemian Shepherd breed originates from the Czech Republic Territory and dates all the way back to the 1300s. They served several purposes such as guard and herding dogs.
Belgian Tervuren Shepherd
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Weight: 44-66 lbs
Temperament: Loyal, Protective, Intelligent, Energetic, Alert
Coat: Long Straight fur with Dense Undercoat
Group: Herding
The Tervuren breed comes from Belgium and look very similar to German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. They typically have long coats and a black mask on their faces.
Dutch Shepherd
Lifespan: 11-14 years
Weight: 65-67 lbs
Temperament: Alert, Reliable, Obedient, Affectionate
Group: Herding
Coat: Short or long
The Dutch Shepherd breed is a herding dog that was used by farmers as helping dogs. They are resilient and highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and learn.
Berger Blanc Suisse
Lifespan: 12 years
Weight: 55-88 lbs
Temperament: Attentive, Aloof, Energetic
The Berger Blanc Suisse, also known as the White Swiss Shepherd Dog, is a breed from Switzerland. It is a descendant from the white German Shepherd dog, and looks very similar in appearance as result.
Northern Inuit
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Weight: 55-110 lbs
Temperament: Gentle, Calm, Dependable, Loyal, Aloof, Intelligent, Watchful
Group: Herding
Coat: Short, Dense With Double Coat
The Northern Inuit Dog was developed in the 1980s in the United Kingdom. This breed was created with the purpose to look like a wolf. The background of the Northern Inuit Dog has a highly debated background. However, most agree that it stems from the German Shepherd, Malamute, and Siberian Husky.
American Alsatian
Lifespan: 9-13 years
Weight: 49-88 lbs
Temperament: Intelligent, Curious, Alert, Watchful, Obedient
Group: Non-Sporting, Therapy
Coat: Long and Rough Hair
The American Alsatian was developed in California during the 1980s. The purpose of this breed was to create a dog that resembled a Dire Wolf. The American Alsatian is also known as the North American Shepalute.
Looking for a Dog Similar to the German Shepherd?
Many awesome dog breeds look like German Shepherds, which is why loads of people consider getting them as alternatives. While German Shepherds have very admirable traits like strong intelligence, eagerness to please, and upbeat personalities, they aren’t the best dog breed for everyone.
German Shepherds Are Too High Energy for Some Households
German Shepherds are often used as police dogs and military dogs for a reason; They are VERY active. If your household is a laidback type that prefers to cuddle on the couch at home, a German Shepherd dog may not be the breed for you.
German Shepherd Mixes for a Calmer Dog
Unfortunately, many dogs that look like German Shepherds are extremely energetic sheepdog breeds. If energy level is your main concern, your best bet may be to look for a German Shepherd dog mixed with a calmer breed. Even then, it is important to get to know your potential adopted dog as personalities vary quite a bit.
Adopt an Elderly German Shepherd Dog
Still set on a German Shepherd dog? No worries, it’s understandable! If it is your dream dog ownership experience to have a GSD, consider adopting an older dog. They are much calmer and easier to handle. Check your local German Shepherd dog rescue for information on available dogs. Your future dog is already eternally grateful!
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