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37 German Dog Breeds

 Did you know that Germany is one of the largest dog breed producers in the world?

With over 30 different dog breeds to their name, Germany has a lot more to offer than just the well-known German Shepherd.

While some of the other breeds in Germany are well-known names too, others are breeds you have probably never heard of.

Furthermore, Germany boasts a very large number of frequently exported dog breeds.

The Great Dane? Exported from Germany. The Rottweiler? Yep. They are from Germany too.

But why don’t we learn a little bit more about these breeds as we count down the 37 German dog breeds?

Let’s get started!

1. Affenpinscher

Affenpinscher walking on the lawn

The Affenpinscher is a small breed of dog that only weighs between 7-10 pounds. Their long, wiry hair and unique appearance often get them compared to monkeys.

Star Wars fans also often fancy the breed and compare their appearance much to that of an Ewok or Wookie.

The breed is well known for being a little comedian, keeping their owners amused all day long.

Did You Know?

  • The origins of the Affenpinscher date back all the way to the 17th century.
  • The name Affenpinscher comes from the words “Affen” (meaning monkey) and “pinscher” (terrier) in German.
  • The Affenpinscher is a very confident and stubborn breed of dog. They do not take well to being trained and can bite when provoked.

2. American Eskimo Dog

american eskimo dog standing on the lawn near the fence

The American Eskimo Dog comes in three different sizes – standard (25-35 pounds), miniature (10-20 pounds), and toy (6-10 pounds).

They were originally used as farm dogs and watchdogs but also spent a lot of time in circus performances. The breed is often described as lively, fun-loving, and eager to please.

Did You Know?

The American Eskimo Dog got its name because of its “snowy” white coat.

The American Eskimo Dog is very intelligent and was commonly used alongside clowns dancing, walking tightropes, and performing other tricks.

The American Eskimo Dog comes in a unique “cream” color variety.

3. Bavarian Mountain Hound

Bavarian Mountain Hound

The Bavarian Mountain Hound is a mid-sized scenthound that stands between 37-66 pounds.

The breed has outstanding tracking abilities and is still used for hunting and gaming today. This breed is very rare, but anyone lucky enough to own one would describe them as a confident, loyal, and calm breed.

Did You Know?

  • The Bavarian Mountain Hound was created from the Bavarian Hound and the Hanoverian Hound with the specific purpose of hunting in mind.
  • The Bavarian Mountain Hound specializes in tracking wounded game
  • The Bavarian Mountain Hound has a very strong pain threshold and can continue to work with cuts, thorns, and splinters.

3. Biewer Terrier

Biwer Terrier on white background

The Biewer (pronounced Bee-vair) Terrier, also called the Biewer Yorkshire Terrier and the Biewer Yorkshire a la Pom Pon, is a rare breed of toy dog which originated in Germany.

The Biewer Yorkie seems oblivious of its small size. It is ever eager for adventure and trouble. This little dog is highly energetic, brave, loyal, and clever. Affectionate with its master, but sometimes suspicious of strangers.

It can be aggressive to strange dogs and small animals. In other words, it has true Terrier heritage. They do best with older, considerate children.

Did You Know?

  • The breed is seldom found outside Germany in the past. The breed was first imported into the USA in 2003.
  • As a very new breed, there remains some controversy over whether the Biewer is a completely separate breed or is simply a color variation of the Yorkshire Terrier.
  •  The breed standard, written by Mr. Biewer in 1989, is the same as that of the Yorkshire Terrier, with the exception of the color requirement.
  • In 2007 the Biewer Terrier Club of America, Inc. became the national mother club for the Biewer Terrier and disallowed the breeding of Yorkshire Terrier to Biewer Terrier to establish the purebred Biewer Terrier.

4. Boxer

Boxer dog lying on white background

The Boxer is a larger breed of dog that weighs between 60-85 pounds. It’s one of the most popular dog breeds in America and is well-known for its silly and entertaining personality. Boxers are strong athletes and are known for being upbeat, playful, and protective in nature with children.

Did You Know?

  • Boxers’ history can be traced way back to the ancient Assyrians in 2000 B.C. But they were not popular in America until the 1930s.
  • Boxers are a close relative to the bulldog and Mastiff.
  • Boxers are well known by their owners for their “kidney bean” dance that they do when greeting new people. They twist their body and spin in semicircles to greet new friends. This is both a lovable and annoying trait of the boxer.
[ QUESTION: Are Boxers Good with Cats? ]

5. Dachshund

Dachshund dog on white background

The Dachshund is a small, short breed of dog that comes in two different sizes. The standard size weighs anywhere between 16 and 32 pounds, while the miniature version weighs under 11 pounds.

The Dachshund was originally bred for hunting Badger but is now well known for its spunky and upbeat personality. Owners would describe them as smart and vigilant with a stubborn streak.

Did You Know?

  • The Dachshunds nose allows them to track Badger while their small bodies allow them to burrow into holes.
  • The Dachshund is not great at running, swimming, or leaping, but they can dig like it’s nobody’s business.
  • The Dachshund gets the nickname “Weiner dog” for its small, long body that resembles a hot dog.

6. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman lying on white background

The Doberman Pinscher is a large breed of dog that weighs between 60 to 100 pounds.

It is extremely athletic in build and has long been known as one of the finest protection dogs in the world.

Dobermans have also been used in policing and the military, as well as for therapy dogs. They are often defined as being an alert and fearless guardian.

Did You Know?

  • Pinchers are a relatively new breed of dog that has been around for less than a hundred and fifty years.
  • The Doberman Pinscher is often referred to as a “tax collectors dog”. As we all know, Tax Collectors are not the most popular people on Earth. So it was a tax collector who originally bred the Doberman Pinscher to stand by his side and guard him as he collected his rounds.
  • Dobermans’ tails and ears were originally docked because they were seen as weakness in a fight. Today they are docked because the tail is thin and sensitive, and can be easily broken. Their ears are docked to prevent infection.

7. Eurasier

Eurasier dog on white background

The Eurasier is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 40-70 pounds. They have a long, thick coat of fur that comes in a variety of different colors, and they often have a masked face.

The breed makes an excellent family pet and is often described as being calm, even-tempered, and gentle.

Did You Know?

  • The Eurasier can have pink, purple, or spotted tongues.
  • The Eurasier loves to be around their family and does not do well when left alone for long periods of time.
  • The Eurasier is not aggressive or shy towards strangers but they would prefer not to be pet by them until they warm up in their own time.

9. German Longhaired Pointer

German Longhaired Pointer sitting on the backyard lawn

The German longhaired pointer is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 55 and 80 pounds.

The breed looks much like that of a Setter with a full tail and long, thick fur. They have long been used to point, hunt, and track game, specializing in waterfowl and other birds.

Aside from being an excellent hunting companion, owners would also describe the German long-haired pointer as loyal, friendly, and smart.

Did You Know?

  • The German longhaired pointer is a member of the sporting group meaning that it is alert, energetic, and outdoorsy.
  • The German longhaired pointer is a very active and energetic breed of dog that requires a great deal of physical activity each and every day. They are definitely not lap dogs.
  • In terms of breed standards, black is not an acceptable color.

10. German Pinscher

German Pinscher resting on the lawn

The German Pinscher is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 25 to 45 pounds.

The breed only stands about knee high but has muscles that bulge out of its body. It is strong, athletic, and confident. It has an intimidating look but makes an excellent companion and guard dog.

Did You Know?

  • The German Pinscher looks like a small version of the Doberman Pinscher but is actually more closely related to the Schnauzer.
  • The German Pinscher almost went extinct after the world wars. Their revival can be attributed to one man by the name of Werner Jung.
  • The German Pinscher is extremely intelligent. If they are not left with a strong and confident owner, they will happily take over the role of the boss within the home.

11. German Shepherd

German shepherd on a white background

The German Shepherd is a breed of dog that weighs between 50 and 90 pounds. Their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature have long made them a favorite breed in America.

Many define the German Shepherd as the epitome of man’s best friend. They are loved by many families but are also used for police and military duty around the world.

Thinking of getting a German Shepherd?

[ Check Out German Shepherd Pros and Cons Here ]

Did You Know?

The first-ever German Shepherd to become famous was known as Rin-Tin-Tin.

The first-ever seeing-eye dog was a female German Shepherd named Buddy in the 1920s.

  • German Shepherds are extremely intelligent and very easy to train. They make the perfect partner for things like yoga, backflips, and balancing training.
  • Lycan Shepherd is a new hybrid dog produced by crossbreeding working line GSD, Belgian Malinois, and Blue Bay Shepherd.

12. German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointer resting on the lawn

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 40 and 70 pounds.

They are excellent gundogs and to this day are some of the top dogs in competitive hunting events.

When not hunting, the German Shorthaired Pointer makes a friendly, intelligent household companion.

With that being said, this breed is extremely energetic and requires an owner that can keep up with their athletic abilities and need to run.

Did You Know?

  • The exact origins of the German Shorthaired Pointer are unknown but it is believed that many different breeds went into the making of this dog. Included within these are the Dalmatian, the English Pointer, the Vizsla, and the Spanish Pointer to name just a few.
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer was bred to hunt both on land and in water.
  • This breed has also been used to sniff out bombs.

13. German Spaniel

German Spaniel on the lawn in the backyard

The German Spaniel is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 40 to 60 pounds. Also referred to as the Deutscher Wachtelhund, this breed of dog was bred for the hunt.

The breed is very popular among German hunters and within German families but is rarely seen outside of their homeland in Germany.

Those that do own a German spaniel would describe them as friendly and playful with a side of stubbornness.

Did You Know?

  • Estimates suggest that there are less than 100 German spaniels living in North America.
  • The scenting and tracking ability of the German spaniel is comparable to that of the Bloodhound.
  • If the German spaniel is not left in a fenced-in yard, you will probably find them hunting throughout the neighborhood.

14. Wolfspitz (Keeshond)

Wolfspitz walking on the snow

The German Wolfspitz is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 55 and 66 pounds. They are believed to be one of the oldest types of European Spitz breeds.

The Wolfspitz has a long, soft, double coat of fur and a well-plumed tail. Owners would describe them as being intelligent, high-spirited, and full of life. They make excellent companions for young children.

Did You Know?

  • The Wolfspitz is known for being a vocal breed of dog that always alerts when strangers are nearby. For this reason, they make excellent guard dogs.
  • The German Wolfspitz was believed to play a significant role in the domestication of the dog.
  • In 1926 in England the name of the Wolfspitz was officially changed to Keeshond.

15. Giant Spitz

Giant Spitz standing on the footpath

The Giant Spitz is the largest of all German Spitz breeds and weighs between 33 to 44 pounds.

Like most other Spitz breeds, the Giant Spitz has a thick double coat of fur, pointed ears, and a fox-like face. Owners would describe them as being cheerful, playful, and very alert.

Did You Know?

  • After the first World War, the Giant Spitz drastically reduced in numbers. It was not until the 1970s that the breed gained some revival.
  • The Giants Spitz is currently recognized by the UKC and the AKC but their numbers still remain very low to this day.
  • The Giant Spitz is a very friendly breed of dog that does well with both children and elderly companions.

16. German Spitz Mittel

German Spitz Mittel

The German Spitz Mittel is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 15 to 24 pounds.

The breed comes from a line of Nordic herding dogs which were taken to Germany and Holland in the Middle Ages by the Vikings.

The breed is even-tempered, happy, and wants nothing more than to be part of the family.

Did You Know?

  • The German Spitz Mittel is considered a very healthy breed of dog but can be prone to eye disorders.
  • The German Spitz Mittel is an excellent choice for less active owners. They are one of the less active breeds of dogs and only require about half an hour of exercise per day.
  • The German Spitz Mittel is considered to be an easygoing breed of dog that is ideal for new or inexperienced dog owners.

17. German Spitz Klein (Miniature Spitz)

German Spitz Klein dog in a grassy park

The Miniature Spitz, as you have probably already guessed, is a small breed of dog that weighs between 18 and 22 pounds.

The appearance of a Miniature Spitz is often compared to that of a fox.

Unlike many dogs that were bred for working, the Miniature Spitz was bred purely for companionship. They are defined as social, curious, and clever with a great sense of humor.

Did You Know?

  • The Miniature Spitz can live up to 16 years and is considered to be a very healthy breed of dog.
  • This breed of dog craves companionship and cannot be left alone for long periods of time.
  • The history of the Miniature Spitz dates back over 6,000 years ago.

18. Pomeranian

Pomeranian dog breed photographed on white background

The Pomeranian is a very tiny breed of dog that only weighs between 3 and 7 pounds. They have long been a favorite among royalties and are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.

These vivacious, fun-loving dogs are small dogs with a big dog personality. They tend to bond very closely with one human but can do well with everyone in the family including children (as long as they are taught to respect the dog).

Did You Know?

  • Pomeranians go by the nickname “pom poms”
  • The Pomeranian is extremely small which makes it hard to believe that they actually descended from large sled dogs of the Arctic. They were bred down in size by Queen Victoria of England but originally weighed between 20 to 30 pounds.
  • Mozart and Michelangelo both had their own Pomeranians.
  • Boo was an internet sensation that lived from 2006 to 2019

19. German Wirehaired Pointer

German Wirehaired Pointer standing on the lawn

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 50 to 70 pounds. When you first see the German Wirehaired Pointer, it’s no surprise where they get their name.

Their pointy,  wiry hair helps to protect them from thorns in the underbrush and harsh weather conditions.

The breed was originally bred for hunting, and today makes an excellent companion for those who enjoy an active or sporty lifestyle.

Did You Know?

  • The German Wirehaired Pointer makes an excellent hunting companion both on land and in the water.
  • The German Wirehaired Pointer is an active breed of dog that requires a great deal of activity each and every day. They are happiest when they are given a job to do.
  • The German Wirehaired Pointer is known for competing in almost any type of performing event and is also used for therapy and drug detection purposes.

20. Great Dane

Great Dane on white background

The Great Dane is a very large breed of dog that can weigh up to 175 pounds. This breed stands over 32 inches tall at the shoulder and towers over most other dog breeds.

Though their stature can be quite intimidating, they actually have quite a sweet personality. Great Danes are people pleasers who are friendly and patient with all, including children.

Did You Know?

  • The Great Dane was once used to take down wild boar.
  • The most famous Great Dane, Scooby-Doo,  was chosen with a specific reason in mind. This is because like Scooby-Doo, Great Danes were once thought to ward away ghosts and evil spirits.
  • Other famous Great Danes cartoon characters also include Scrappy-doo and Marmaduke.
  • The tallest dog in the world named Zeus was a Great Dane. He stood over 44 inches tall.
  • The Great Dane is best known for his classic cropped ears standing straight on top of his head.

21. Hanover Hound

Hanover Hound close up photo

The Hanover Hound is a large breed of dog weighing between 77 and 99 pounds. The breed is a strong working dog with a nose for the hunt.

The Hanover Hound is a descendant of the Liam Hound that existed in the Middle Ages.

It remains almost unchanged to this day. Owners would describe the breed as calm, self-assured, and loyal.

Did You Know?

  • The Hanover Hound has been bred exclusively for hunting big game.
  • The Hanover Hound can be a slow breed to mature. They remain puppy-like for several years.
  • The Hanover Hound can be shy to warm up to strangers and typically bonds most closely with one specific person.

22. Hovawart

2 Hovawart dogs on the lawn

The Hovawart is a large breed of dog that weighs between 65 and 90 pounds. This breed tends to bond closely with its family members but requires a great deal of time and attention.

It is not recommended for first-time or novice dog owners. Though the Hovawart can be a loving companion and guard dog, they also have a stubborn side that can make them more difficult to train.

Did You Know?

  • In America, the Hovawart is commonly used in search-and-rescue missions, as well as for therapy dog purposes.
  • Inclusions in paintings suggest that the Hovawart dog dates back to Medieval Times.
  • Hovawarts have stringent breeding regulations which make them one of the healthiest and longest living of all working breeds.

23. Jagdterrier

Jagdterrier puppy playing with a stick on the lawn

The Jagdterrier is a smaller breed of dog weighing between 17 and 22 pounds. The name, meaning “hunt terrier”, is well-suited to this dog which is the perfect size for flushing small game out of the ground.

The breed is a descendant of the larger Fox Terrier and was designed specifically for underground hunting. Owners would describe them as hard-working, sociable, and easy to train.

Did You Know?

  • Jagdterrier is pronounced “Yack Terrier”
  • This breed is sometimes just referred to as “hunt terrier”.
  • The Jagdterrier is a courageous and fearless breed of dog

24. Kromfohrlander

Kromfohrlander standing in the backyard lawn

The Kromfohrlander is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 20 to 35 pounds. The name is pronounced “krome-for-lahn-dair”, or they go by “kromi” for short.

Unlike many breeds on this list, the Kromi does not have any hunting instincts. Rather he was bred purely for companionship. Owners would describe the breed as intelligent, sensitive, and good with children.

Did You Know?

  • The Kromi has a unique characteristic where they will sneeze to greet new people.
  • You might also get their signature grin when they greet you.
  • The Kromi is a rare breed of dog that is not usually seen outside of Germany.

25. Small Munsterlander

Small Munsterlander on white background

The small Munsterlander is actually a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 40 to 60 pounds. It is passionate about hunting and is often used in hunting tests and retrieving trials.

These are some of the most popular hunting dogs in Europe, coming in only behind the German Wirehaired and German shorthaired.

Owners would describe the Small Munsterlander as intelligent, even-tempered, and self-confident.

Did You Know?

  • There are more than 10,000 small munsterlanders registered in Germany alone.
  • A Small Munsterlander is driven towards the water and uses its tail to help it swim.
  • The Small Munsterlander is very fast and can sprint up to 25 miles per hour.

26. Large Munsterlander

Large Munsterlander on the hill

The Large Munsterlander is a larger breed of dog that weighs between 50 to 70 pounds. The breed has mid-length silky fur and a unique set of black or brown and white spots that set them apart from other breeds.

The breed is relatively new and has only been recognized since 1919. They are often described as gentle and intelligent but do require an adequate amount of exercise to prevent them from becoming high-strung.

Did You Know?

  • The first munsterlander didn’t arrive in the United States until 1966.
  • The Munsterlander has high exercise requirements and should not be left to their own devices for very long. If they are, they can make their own “fun” and become destructive.
  • The large Munsterlander is not yet recognized by the AKC but was officially recognized by the UKC in 2006.

27. Leonberger

Leonberger dog on white background

The Leonberger is a very large breed of dog that weighs between 110 to 170 pounds. A gentle giant with a patient temperament, this breed makes an excellent companion to everyone in the family.

The male Leonberger often gets compared to a lion for its mane-like fur around its face. Their massive size makes them perfect for guarding the home though this breed of dog is much more of a lover than a fighter.

Did You Know?

  • The Leonberger was created with one purpose in mind – companionship
  • According to legend, the creator of the breed wanted the Leonberger to resemble the appearance of a lion within the town crest
  • Unlike many breeds of dog where you cannot tell the difference between a male and a female without looking for it, the male and female Leonbergers each have their own distinct look.

28. Lowchen

Lowchen puppy on white background

The Lowchen is a small breed of dog that weighs between 10 and 15 pounds. German for “Little Lion”, the Lowchen has the bravery of a lion with the mane and fur to go along with it.

Though the name is German, there is much debate as to where this breed actually originated from.

It has long been popular in Continental Europe in France, Holland, Italy, Spain, Russia, and of course, Germany. The breed is often described as outgoing and affectionate with a heart of gold.

Did You Know?

  • The Lowchen has been featured in many paintings dating back to the 1500s.
  • Though the Lowchen can be stubborn at times, they have an excellent memory which makes them relatively easy to train.
  • The popularity of the Lowchen died down until the television show “Hart to Hart” featured one of the breed which again brought back their popularity.

29. Poodle

white toy poodle standing on white background

The Standard Poodle is a midsize breed of dog that can weigh anywhere between 40 and 70 pounds.

A true aristocrat,  this breed is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world. In addition to the standard poodle, poodles come in two other sizes as well – the toy poodle and the Miniature poodle.

But regardless of which size you choose, owners can always be certain that they are going to have a companion who is eager, athletic, and extremely intelligent.

Did You Know?

  • The Poodle is extremely intelligent. Out of 138 different dog breeds, poodles rank the second smartest in terms of obedience and working intelligence.
  • The ever-so-popular “poodle puff” haircut may at first seem like a fashion statement but it’s actually designed to protect their joints and vital organs when swimming in cold waters.
  • Poodles don’t actually have fur. They have hair. This means that, unlike most dogs that shed, poodle hair will grow continuously until it is cut. This is why they require a great deal of regular grooming.

30. Pudelpointer

Pudelpointer in th forest

The Pudelpointer is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. A crossbreed between the poodle and the pointer, the pudelpointer is a skilled gun dog that can work in the fields, the woods, or the water.

It was first imported to North America in 1956 and has since become a beloved companion that is both intelligent and friendly.

Did You Know?

  • 7 poodles and over 100 different pointers went into the creation of the pudelpointer. It took over 30 years to create the breed.
  • The pudelpointer has a short and wiry coat that is easy to manage.
  • Pudelpointers have a long average lifespan of over 15 years.

31. Rottweiler

rottweiler photographed against a white background

The Rottweiler is a large breed of dog that weighs between 85-130 pounds. A descendant of the Mastiff, this large dog has an extremely intimidating look but is actually more gentle and playful than aggressive.

Rottweilers were originally used to move and drive cattle so much so that they are often called the “butcher’s dog”. Owners of the Rottweiler would describe them as confident, loyal, and an excellent guardian.

Worth A Look: Are Rottweilers Dangerous?

Did You Know?

  • Industrialization almost made the Rottweiler breed extinct. It was not until the 1900’s that the breed was re-established as a policing and military breed.
  • Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers were all used in search-and-rescue missions following the 9/11 attacks.
  • Bruno Mars, Leonardo Dicaprio, and Will Smith all own Rottweilers.

32. Standard Schnauzer

Standard Schnauzer on white background

The Standard Schnauzer is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 30 and 50 pounds.

Originally bred to be an all-purpose working dog, the Standard Schnauzer is an athletic, energetic, and enthusiastic companion. Owners would describe them as high-spirited and protective.

Did You Know?

  • The thick whiskers of the Standard Schnauzer actually serve a purpose. During their time of hunting vermin, their whiskers would protect them from being bitten.
  • The word Schnauzer means “nose” and it’s no surprise why this dog is named Schnauzer when you look at their face.
  • In WWI the German army commonly used Schnauzers as guard dogs.

33. Giant Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzer standing on the park grass

The Giant Schnauzer is a large breed of dog weighing between 55 and 85 pounds. It has a very similar appearance to the Standard Schnauzer but is larger in size.

Like other Schnauzers, the Giant Schnauzer has a unique set of eyebrows and a long mustache to go along with them. Owners would describe them as loyal, courageous, and excellent guard dogs.

Did You Know?

  • The Giant Schnauzer is a working dog that can perform a wide variety of jobs. Driving cattle, guarding, and carting are just a few of the many jobs that this dog can do.
  • Giant Schnauzers have been employed as police dogs, military dogs, search and rescue dogs, and seeing-eye dogs.
  • There aren’t many dog breeds that say they can sport a beard but the Schnauzer is one of them.

34. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer on white background

As you probably already guessed, the miniature schnauzer is a smaller version of the standard and giant schnauzer. They weigh between 11 and 20 pounds.

Like other breeds of Schnauzer, the miniature schnauzer was created to be an all-around farm dog. They have all of the qualities of an excellent family dog including intelligence, playfulness, friendliness, and obedience.

Did You Know?

  • Although the Standard, Giant, and Miniature schnauzer have much in common, the miniature schnauzer is actually a breed all of its own.
  • The Miniature schnauzer is a combination of a Standard Schnauzer bred with a Poodle and an Affenpinscher.
  • The Miniature Schnauzer has a thick, wiry double coat of fur that helps to protect them against dirt and debris.

35. Stichelhaar

Stichelhaar dog on leash at the park with owner

The Stichelhaar is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 44 and 66 pounds. A type of pointing breed, the Stichelhaar has a wiry coat of fur and thick facial coverings.

The breed was created as a cross between rough-haired standing dogs and German Sheepdogs.

While this breed is always up to the hunt, they also make excellent family companions. They are often described as being loyal, affectionate, and friendly.

Did You Know?

  • The Stichelhaar is one of the oldest German Rough haired pointing breeds
  • While the breed is quite popular in Germany, they have not yet gained popularity outside of their homeland.
  • The Stichelhaar was first recognized by the AKC in 1959.

36. Weimaraner

Weimaraner dog at the park

The Weimaraner is a large breed of dog that weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. Often referred to as the “grey ghost”, the Weimaraner is known for being sleek and swift.

The breed is defined as well-balanced and is each intelligent, obedient, friendly, and all-around well-mannered.

Did You Know?

  • In order to create the Weimaraner dog, various German and French hunting dogs were combined with Bloodhounds.
  • The Weimaraner is a relatively new breed of dog that only dates back to the early 19th century.
  • The Weimaraner has been featured on several episodes of the popular children’s series Sesame Street.

37. Westphalian Dachsbracke

Westphalian Dachsbracke in the fruit farms

The Westphalian Dachsbracke is a small to the mid-size breed of dog with short legs. They weigh anywhere between 30 to 35 pounds.

The breed is said to be a combination of a Dachshund and a German Hound. Because they are so low to the ground they make ideal hunters for burrowing into dens, caves, and other areas in the ground.

Though they tend to have a mischievous streak, owners love them for their affectionate and friendly nature.

Did You Know?

  • The Westphalian Dachsbracke is a tireless hunter that was bred specifically for hunting rabbits, hares, and foxes.
  • The Westphalian Dachsbracke has a stubborn side and requires a strong, confident owner.
  • Compared to other breeds of its size, the Westphalian Dachsbracke has a relatively short life expectancy of between 10 to 12 years.

So there you have it – the top 37 German dog breeds.

Some of these dog breeds may be very familiar to you, while others may be breeds that you have never heard of before.

Either way, these German dog breeds are not to be forgotten and have all played a significant role in our history whether it be as a working dog or as a loving household companion.

Other Non-AKC Recognized German Dogs

German Hound

German Hound in the forest

The German Hound is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 42 and 44 pounds. The breed is tri-colored and is often said to resemble that of a beagle.

They were originally developed as scent-hound but are now more commonly kept as household pets. Owners would describe them as loyal, loving, and eager to please.

Did You Know?

  • The German Hound is not currently recognized by the AKC or the UKC.
  • The German Hound was the first Bracke to be registered as a distinct breed in 1900
  • The German Hound is believed to be made up of the beagle, the English pointer, foxhounds, the Greyhound, and the Bloodhound.

Good Read: Dog Commands in German

About the author: Driven by his lifelong passion for dogs and an insatiable curiosity about their diverse breeds, Pablo Pascua founded dogbreedsfaq.com. Through this website, he seeks to expand his knowledge and share his findings with fellow dog enthusiasts. Having owned several dogs throughout his life, Pablo’s experiences have fueled his interest in learning more about these beloved animals. His mission is to provide accurate and comprehensive information to help pet owners make informed decisions about their furry companion.