Developed in late-1800s Germany by Captain Max von Stephanitz from regional herding dogs, the German Shepherd became the global standard for police, military, and service work. Brave, intensely loyal, and ranking among the top three smartest breeds, they thrive on a clear job and a single trusted handler. This is not a casual dog: under-exercised or untrained Shepherds become anxious and reactive, and the breed is genetically prone to hip and elbow dysplasia.
