Mixed breed shepherd dogs are incredibly diverse, with a wide range of characteristics and traits. They can inherit the intelligence and loyalty of their parent breeds, such as the Border Collie and German Shepherd.
These dogs often have a unique appearance, with varying coat lengths, colors, and patterns. Their size can also differ, from small to medium to large.
One thing is certain, mixed breed shepherd dogs make great family pets due to their gentle and affectionate nature. They are often highly adaptable and easy to train.
Their intelligence and energy levels can vary, but they usually require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Popular Mixed Breed Shepherds
There are several popular mixed breed shepherd dogs out there, and one of them is the Lycan Shepherd. This breed is a mix of a German Shepherd and another breed, but the exact mix is not specified.
Some other popular mixed breed shepherd dogs include the King Shepherd, which is a mix of a German Shepherd and another breed, but again, the exact mix is not specified. These breeds are often referred to as German Shepherd mixes.
Here are 16 popular German Shepherd mixes:
- Lycan Shepherd
- King Shepherd
Euro Sheparnese
The Euro Sheparnese is a mix between a German Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog. These dogs are incredibly friendly and loving.
They will, however, push your boundaries too, so be prepared for some serious training. Expect them to be very willful and sometimes stubborn.
Despite their rebellious streak, they'll likely prefer being your constant, loyal companion, as their parent breeds are both "Velcro" dogs that love to be close to their owners.
Proper training is essential for this breed, but with patience and experience, they can make an excellent addition to households with kids. Just remember to teach your little ones to treat them with respect.
Contents
This article explores the wonderful world of popular mixed breed shepherds, including the German Shepherd mix.
We'll be discussing the 16 popular German Shepherd mixes, so you can get a better understanding of what makes them special.
We'll also touch on why you might want a German Shepherd mix as a pet, and what you can expect from these amazing dogs.
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Finally, we'll summarize our key takeaways and provide some final thoughts on the world of mixed breed shepherds.
Here are the 16 popular German Shepherd mixes we'll be covering:
- Alaskan Shepherd
- Bearded Shepherd
- Bohemian Shepherd
- Chinook
- Czechoslovakian Shepherd
- East German Shepherd
- German Australian Shepherd
- German Cattle Dog
- German Golden Shepherd
- German Kelpie
- German Pitbull Shepherd
- German Siberian Shepherd
- German Shepherd Husky
- German Shepherd Lab
- Shetland Shepherd
- White Shepherd
Other Mixed Breed Dogs
Some mixed breed shepherd dogs have a strong herding instinct, like the Australian Shepherd Mix, which inherited its herding ability from the Australian Shepherd parent. They can be quite skilled at gathering and moving livestock.
The Australian Shepherd Mix is also highly intelligent and trainable, making them a popular choice as both family pets and working dogs.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Australian Sheep Herding Dog
Labra
The Labra is a unique and lovable mixed breed dog. It's a mix between a Labrador Retriever and a German Shepherd, often referred to as a Labrashepherd or Sheprador.
Labrashepherds are incredibly intelligent, which means they're easy to train and can pick up new commands and tricks quickly. They thrive in new situations and love to explore.
These dogs are also loving, calm, and do well in family situations, making them a great addition to many households. Their biddable personalities make them highly trainable, as long as they're socialized correctly.
Labrashepherds are high-energy dogs, so they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They're a poor match for couch potatoes, but would thrive with an active owner or family who can provide daily exercise and outings.
Hikers and joggers may be perfect for this breed, as they love to be on the go and explore new places.
Pug
The Pug is a small breed that's full of energy and has a fun loving nature. They're always incredibly happy pups which makes them a joy to be around.
Pugs are known for their loyalty and people pleasing nature, which can sometimes make them want to play with anyone, including strangers.
As a result, Pugs are great dogs for families with children of any age, as they love to play and turn any house into a home with their fun loving natures.
Worth a look: Fun Dogs Breeds
Corgi
Corgis are known for their intelligence and herding ability, traits they share with their German Shepherd counterparts. They're highly energetic and playful, requiring daily walks and plenty of playtime to keep them from getting destructive.
Corgi mixes, like the Corman Shepherd, can inherit a tendency to bark or howl from their Corgi parents. This might not be suitable for apartment living, where noise could be an issue.
These dogs are great for herding and are often used on farms, which is part of why they're such great companions for active owners. They're very affectionate towards their owners, but they can be quite stubborn at times.
To train a Corgi mix, you'll need to have patience and a determination that matches their will. They're quick to pick up on when their owner can be ignored, so consistent training is key.
Daily walks and playtime are essential for Corgi mixes, as they have almost boundless amounts of energy. Without proper outlets for their energy, they might start chewing on furniture or destroying items left on the floor.
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Pitbull
The Pitbull is a great breed to mix with other dogs, like German Shepherds, to create a unique and lovable companion. The Sheppit, a mix of German Shepherd and Pitbull, is highly affectionate and patient with children.
Expand your knowledge: Types of German Shepherd Dogs Breeds
These dogs are known to thrive on human interaction and can be quite protective of their family. They tend to have a strong will to defend and will stand between you and any perceived threat.
Despite their tough exterior, Pitbull mixes like the Sheppit can be very friendly towards strangers if they sense friendliness. They just need a little time to warm up to new people.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a small and unassuming breed that can be very territorial and even aggressive. They can make excellent guard dogs for adult owners.
Their distrust of strangers is usually very high and can be problematic at times. They require experienced dog owners who can handle their stubborn and willful nature.
Pomeranian
Pomeranian mixes are known for their spunkiness and big attitude, which they inherit from their Pomeranian parent.
They can make excellent guard dogs due to their confident and fearless nature.
Pomeranian mixes usually have a medium-sized build and are fairly muscular.
Early socialization is crucial for these dogs, as they can exhibit some dominance and need to learn to interact with strangers and other dogs.
Their friendly nature towards strangers and other dogs is a plus, making them great companions for many families.
A fresh viewpoint: Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Breeds
Individual Breeds
The German Shepherd is one of the most common breeds used in mixed breed shepherd dogs, known for its intelligence and loyalty.
Its origins date back to 1899, when Captain Max von Stephanitz founded the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (Society for the German Shepherd Dog) to promote the breed.
Some German Shepherds are naturally more protective than others, but proper socialization can help them become confident and calm companions.
The Australian Shepherd is another popular breed used in mixed breed shepherd dogs, prized for its high energy level and herding ability.
They were originally bred to herd sheep on ranches in the United States, and their strong work ethic makes them a great addition to active families.
Their intelligence and trainability also make them a popular choice for search and rescue teams.
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New Shep
The New Shep is a giant fluff ball that loves to swim, making it a great dog for families who enjoy aquatic activities.
This breed is a mix between a German Shepherd and a Newfoundland, resulting in a dog that's highly trainable, loyal, and gentle.
They can weigh anywhere from 90 to 140 pounds and reach up to 28 inches in height, so space is a must for this massive pup.
New Sheps are also heavy shedders, so be prepared for regular grooming sessions to keep their thick double coat under control.
Despite their size, they're known to be lap dogs and love cuddles on the sofa, making them perfect for families with older children.
They're also great with kids and have an affinity for water, thanks to their Newfoundland parent's love of swimming.
In fact, they may even have partly webbed feet, making them natural swimmers.
With proper training, New Sheps can be easily trainable and obedient, making them a great choice for new owners.
However, their heavy shedding can be a drawback, so be prepared for regular vacuuming and grooming sessions.
Overall, the New Shep is a gentle giant that's perfect for families who want a loyal and loving companion.
Take a look at this: Loyal Dogs Breeds
Labrador
Labrador is a popular dog breed known for its loving nature and people-pleasing personality. They are naturally a bit smaller than German Shepherds, but still a large breed.
Labradors are highly intelligent and love to learn new tricks, making them a great breed for first-time dog owners. They are also excellent with children and thrive on human interaction.
One of the best things about Labradors is that they are relatively easy to train, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They make fantastic family pets and are often described as "buddy-like" in their behavior.
Labradors are also known for their short coats, which means they shed less than some other breeds. However, this doesn't mean they don't need regular grooming - they still require regular brushing to stay healthy and happy.
In terms of size, Labradors are a large breed and need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks and playtime are a must, especially if you're considering getting a mix of a Labrador and another breed, such as a German Shepherd.
Related reading: Large Mixed Breed Dogs
Poodle
The Poodle is a breed that's often mixed with other dogs to create unique and lovable companions. They're known for their proud spirit and curly hair.
Poodles are intelligent, which makes them great learners, but they can get bored with repetitive training. Switching things up and keeping the mood light is key to keeping them engaged.
Their curly coats can be a challenge to groom, especially if they dominate the mix. Regular professional grooming and maintenance brushing between appointments are essential to prevent matting.
Poodles are likely to have a strong sense of smell, which means they'll follow their nose instead of commands if they're not in a fully fenced space. This is why it's essential to keep them leashed when they're not in a secure area.
Their intelligence and loyalty make them one of the easiest breeds to housebreak and train. They thrive on human interaction and are happiest when spending time with their owners.
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Border Collie
The Border Collie is a highly intelligent breed that excels in herding and problem-solving. They're known for their boundless energy and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
As a breed with a strong working background, Border Collies require owners who can keep up with their activity levels and provide plenty of mental stimulation. This can be a great fit for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.
One of the most notable traits of the Border Collie is their loyalty and devotion to their family. They form strong bonds with their loved ones and can make great companions for those who are willing to put in the time and effort.
Given their protective streak, Border Collies can also make effective guard dogs, but this shouldn't be relied upon as their primary function.
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Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a breed that's slightly smaller than a German Shepherd, resulting in a medium-sized dog. They're known for their strong nature and high energy levels.
Shiba Inus are a protective breed, which means they can be wary of strangers and need to be socialized early on. If not, they can become destructive due to boredom.
These dogs thrive in households with gardens, where they can run around and get plenty of exercise. Without proper tire-out or entertainment, they can become restless and misbehave.
Shiba Inus are affectionate with their pack and love to play, making them great companions for families who can provide the necessary attention and exercise.
Husky
Husky mixes are known for their high energy levels, requiring over an hour of exercise every day.
They're not for the faint of heart, as they can walk for days on end, just like their purebred ancestors.
Their intelligence can be both a blessing and a curse, making them great to train but also prone to outsmarting their owners.
These dogs are extremely active and need plenty of physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
They're highly affectionate and emotionally needy, thriving in environments with lots of human interaction and attention.
In fact, they can be so sensitive that they don't do well with being left alone for extended periods of time.
Their high prey drive means they don't get along with other small animals, like cats, and may require special care when introducing them to other pets.
Great Dane
The Great Dane is a gentle giant.
They are one of the largest dog breeds in the world, with males weighing up to 200 pounds.
Their short coats come in a variety of colors including brindle, black, and harlequin.
Great Danes are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities.
They are often referred to as "gentle giants" due to their calm and patient nature.
Great Danes typically live between 6-8 years, which is relatively short compared to other breeds.
Broaden your view: Gentle Dogs Breeds
Bulldog
The Bulldog is a breed that's known for being loyal and protective, traits that are also seen in its mixed breed offspring, the German Shepherd and Bulldog Mix.
They tend to be distrustful of strangers, but they normally don’t become aggressive even around new people. This makes them a great choice for families with kids, as they're moderately affectionate and will go out of their way to ward off any threats.
Corman
The Corman Shepherd is a German Shepherd and Corgi mix that's a ball of energy, requiring regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
They have a lot of potential to be bold and energetic, but this also means they can be unpredictable in terms of their appearance.
It's essential to train this active dog, as they can become destructive when bored and not sufficiently stimulated, making them a good candidate for canine sports like agility or obedience.
Keep in mind that both German Shepherds and Corgis are prone to joint issues, so it's crucial to keep the Corman Shepherd at a healthy weight to prevent any potential problems.
With the right training, the Corman Shepherd can be super fun to play with, making them a great companion for active families or individuals.
Mixed Breed Combinations
Australian Shepherd and Border Collie mixed breeds, known as Aussiedor, are a popular combination due to their intelligence and high energy levels.
Their strong herding instincts make them excel at herding and agility training.
This mix is often recommended for active families who can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Explore further: Sheep Dog Herding
Gerberian Shepsky
The Gerberian Shepsky is a stunning dog, especially if he inherits the bright blue eyes of the Husky and the dark coloring of the German Shepherd. He has large ears and a fluffy coat that you'll need to brush daily.
He'll reach heights of 22 to 26 inches and weigh anywhere between 45 and 80 pounds. This guy is a bit of a talkative dog, so be prepared for a lot of noise and canine chatter.
A bored Gerberian Shepsky is a very unhappy one, so he needs to be placed with a very active family. This means you'll need to exercise him for 90 minutes every day.
He's a delightfully dopey dog who will provide you and your family with hours of entertainment. But to unlock this side of him, you'll need to make sure he gets the physical and mental stimulation he needs.
He'll be quite protective of his family, so expect a loyal companion here.
Shepadoodle
The Shepadoodle is a surprisingly energetic dog who will need at least an hour of intense exercise a day.
He's likely to inherit the single coat of the Poodle, making him a great choice for those with allergies. This means he'll shed less and be easier to care for.
His coat comes with curls, so expect him to look like a German Shepherd who's had a perm. He'll typically inherit the darker colors and markings of the German Shepherd, but could sport a variety of colors depending on his Poodle parent.
To keep him happy and engaged, you'll need to provide mental stimulation through activities like agility courses and long mountain hikes.
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Shepweiler
The Shepweiler is a working dog known for his guarding and protective traits, requiring socialization and training from a very early age by a pack leader.
He's a formidable looking dog, weighing at least 50 pounds and going up to 135 pounds, so you'll need plenty of space for him.
With his loyalty comes a huge heart full of love and affection for his human family, making him a great companion for the right owner.
He'll likely be brown and black in color with the markings of his German Shepherd and Rottweiler parents, giving him a unique look.
If you're unsure about taking on the role of pack leader, the Shepweiler can become problematic and unruly, so it's essential to consider your ability to provide the necessary training and care.
General Information
Mixed breed shepherd dogs are intelligent and devoted companions, inheriting these traits from their German Shepherd parent.
They can be medium to large in size, so they require a fair bit of space to move around.
Their exercise needs are significant, so they're not suitable for owners who don't have time or space to give them regular physical activity.
These dogs are perfect for active owners who can provide them with the necessary exercise and attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of a shepherd mix dog?
A Sheprador's lifespan is typically 7-13 years, similar to its parent breeds. However, they can be prone to various health issues that may affect their overall lifespan.
What is the most common mutt?
According to Mars Veterinary's mutt census, the German Shepherd is the most common breed found in America's mixed-breed dogs. This breed's popularity in mutts may be due to its widespread presence in shelters and rescue organizations.
What is the best German Shepherd mix?
There is no single "best" German Shepherd mix, as each unique combination offers distinct characteristics and benefits. If you're looking for a loyal companion, consider popular mixes like the Shepadoodle, Golden Shepherd, or Sheprador, each with its own strengths and traits.
Is a German Shepherd mix a good family dog?
A German Shepherd mix can make a great family dog if you're willing to invest time in training and bonding with them. With proper care and attention, these intelligent dogs can thrive as loving and loyal family members.
How do I tell what my German Shepherd is mixed with?
Determine your German Shepherd's mix by comparing its physical characteristics and behavior to other breeds, or use a breed DNA kit for a more accurate result
Sources
- 16 German Shepherd Mixes: GSD Crossbreeds (With ... (dogster.com)
- Reddit (reddit.com)
- healthier (instituteofcaninebiology.org)
- A post shared by Husky-Schäferhund-Mix EMIL (@huskymix_emil) (instagram.com)
- A post shared by Tinto – German Aussie Shepherd (@tinto.thegermanaussie) (instagram.com)
- Discover the 13 Most Adorable German Shepherd Mixes ... (petside.com)
- 22 Mixed German Shepherd Breeds (With Pictures) (hepper.com)
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