German Shepherds are among the most popular dog breeds in the world, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. According to the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd dog consistently ranks in the top five popular dog breeds in the United States.
These shepherd dogs are loved as family pets, dependable service dogs, therapy dogs, and even heroes in search and rescue operations. Their iconic wolf-like appearance, erect ears, and thick double coat make them stand out as a truly intelligent breed that’s both agile and courageous.
But here’s the fun part: there are many other dog breeds that share similar characteristics and even physical similarities with German Shepherds. Some of these breeds are slightly smaller, like a medium-sized dog, while others are a bigger German Shepherd version, with an even more muscular body and a thick coat for colder climates.
Many are highly trainable, make excellent guard dogs, or fit perfectly into an active family as family companions with a gentle nature and loyal temperament.
In this list, we’ll introduce you to 7 dog breeds that resemble German Shepherds in appearance and personality.
Dog Breeds That Look Like German Shepherds
1. Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is often confused with German Shepherds because of their similar size and coat, but they’re more slender and athletic. Britannica states that this pup originated from Malines in Belgium in the 1800s.
It was first used for herding but quickly became popular in police, military, and search and rescue operations thanks to their incredible drive and intelligence.
Here’s the good part: Malinois excel in dog sports like agility and obedience, and they’re among the most highly trainable and intelligent breeds you’ll find. They thrive with a job to do and need mental stimulation and lots of exercise to stay happy.
Unlike a German Shepherd dog, they have a lighter build and shorter coat, making them easier to groom. But they’re best for experienced owners who can provide consistent training and daily challenges—otherwise, they’ll make their own fun (and it won’t be pretty!).
2. Belgian Tervuren Shepherd
The Belgian Tervuren is like the long-haired cousin of the Belgian Malinois—elegant, agile, and full of energy. They’re a medium-sized dog with a proud, muscular frame and a beautiful, straight, abundant coat, complete with a fluffy “collarette” around the neck.
Now, this isn’t a couch potato dog. Tervurens are highly intelligent herding breeds that need plenty of exercise, training, and mental challenges. They excel at herding, tracking, and even search and rescue operations, but they also have a playful, mischievous side that keeps owners on their toes.
They look a lot like German Shepherds, but they’re lighter and quicker, making them great for agility and outdoor adventures. However, they’re not ideal for people with a sedentary lifestyle—these dogs truly thrive when they have a job to do.
3. Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd is an energetic and athletic herding group dog that’s incredibly versatile and similar to German Shepherds in intelligence and trainability.
PetMD mentions that they were originally bred in the Netherlands in the 18th century as an all-purpose farm dog. They worked as herders, guards, and drovers, which made them a truly strong breed with a strong sense of their surroundings.
Known for their wolf-like looks and brindle coats, Dutch Shepherds excel in obedience training, herding, tracking, and even mental stimulation activities like agility. They have erect ears, a lean but muscular build, and a lively personality that makes them great working dogs for active owners.
Here’s the good part: while they’re a rare breed, Dutch Shepherds make wonderful companions when properly trained and socialized. They’re protective and loyal, making them excellent family pets for an active family willing to give them plenty of exercise and regular grooming.
They may look similar to German Shepherds, but Dutch Shepherds tend to have a more compact frame and a brindle coat instead of the typical golden tan. With proper training, they’re smart, adaptable, and always eager to work alongside their humans.
4. Tamaskan
The Tamaskan Dog is a striking, wolf-like hybrid breed that was developed in the UK by crossing Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and German Shepherds. Designed to look like a wolf while remaining a loyal and trainable companion, this working dog has gained popularity for its intelligence and adaptability.
Breed Group: Working
Height: 25-28 inches
Weight: 50-90 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Temperament: Intelligent, Tolerant, Obedient, Agile, Sociable
A Tamaskan even played a convincing wolf in a Broadway production of The Crucible! They’re great service dogs, excel in agility, and require consistent training and socialization.
They’re similar to German Shepherds in their versatility and keen sense of their surroundings, but Tamaskans have a more wolfish look and a pack-driven nature. Because they’re highly active, they need lots of exercise and mental stimulation to stay balanced.
Though not an ancient breed, the Tamaskan is still considered a rare breed, and regular grooming is needed to keep its beautiful coat healthy. For an active family who loves outdoor adventures, a properly trained Tamaskan can be an amazing addition.
5. Berger Blanc Suisse
The Berger Blanc Suisse, also known as the White Swiss Shepherd, is a stunning, snow-white dog with a calm and friendly nature. Medium in size, this elegant shepherd has erect triangular ears, a graceful build, and a long, bushy, sabre-like tail.
Their fluffy white coat gives them a striking, almost magical appearance, especially as puppies, when they look like little snowballs full of playfulness and curiosity.
Breed Group: Working
Height: 21-24 inches
Weight: 55-77 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Temperament: Friendly, loyal, intelligent, gentle
While they look very much like a white-coated German Shepherd, the Berger Blanc Suisse is actually recognized as a distinct breed. They originated from early white-coated German Shepherd breeding lines and developed into their own type in Switzerland.
Known for being alert, gentle, and easygoing, they are often considered more relaxed and approachable than their darker-colored cousins.
Berger Blanc Suisse dogs are incredibly loyal, affectionate, and great with children, making them wonderful family companions. They also excel in a variety of activities like agility and obedience since they enjoy both physical and mental challenges.
Their intelligence and steady temperament make them ideal for active owners who want a beautiful, reliable, and devoted companion.
6. Bohemian Shepherd
The Bohemian Shepherd is a charming and versatile dog that is smaller than the German Shepherd but still incredibly capable. These two breeds share many qualities, including intelligence, loyalty, and a strong work ethic.
However, the Bohemian Shepherd is generally less intense and easier to manage, making it a wonderful and loyal companion for families.
Breed Group: Herding
Height: 21 to 22 inches (males); 19 to 21 inches (females)
Weight: 41 to 60 pounds (males); 37 to 53 pounds (females)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Temperament: Loyal, bright, calm, active, courageous
AKC says that Bohemian Shepherds are known to be friendly and gentle, which helps them get along well with children and other pets in the home. They thrive on regular activities and love spending time with their family, whether it’s playing, learning new tricks, or simply relaxing together.
What makes them especially appealing is how much these dogs share with their German cousins—like the striking black-and-tan coat and a naturally protective nature—while being more adaptable to family life. They’re ideal for those who want a loving, active dog without the higher intensity of some bigger working breeds.
7. King Shepherd
The King Shepherd is a truly majestic dog, created in the early 1990s by blending several closely related breeds, including the German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, and Great Pyrenees.
Unlike the traditional German Shepherd, this large breed was carefully developed to retain the intelligence and loyalty of its relatives while reducing some of the health and structural problems that the two breeds often faced.
Breed Group: Miscellaneous
Height: At least 25 inches (females) or 27 inches (males)
Weight: 80-145 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Temperament: Even-keeled, loving, and self-confident
Despite their size, they tend to have a more calm demeanor than the typical German Shepherd, making them better suited for families who want a protective but easygoing guardian.
King Shepherds generally do well with children and can live peacefully with other pets if properly socialized. However, because of their size and strength, they’re better suited for rural homes or spacious environments where they can move freely.
Conclusion
Looking for a dog with the intelligence, loyalty, and striking looks of a German Shepherd but with its own unique personality? There are plenty of wonderful options that share similar qualities while offering something a little different. Some are calmer and easier to manage, while others bring even more energy and playfulness into a home.
Apart from the dogs mentioned above, there are other breeds as well that resemble German Shepherds. These include the East European Shepherd (Byelorussian Shepherd), Shiloh Shepherd, Belgian Shepherd, White German Shepherd, Belgian Sheepdog, and American Alsatian.
No matter which one you choose, these dogs all have one thing in common—they’re devoted, loving, and ready to become a true part of the family. With the right care, training, and companionship, you’ll have a loyal friend by your side for years to come.
