#09 – German Shepherd
The second most popular dog breed in AKC’s registry still remains as one of the priciest varieties sold by breeders in the United States. The German Shepherd can trace its origins in the late 1800s when Imperial Germany’s breeders, under the initiative of an ingenious cavalry officer, produced a world-class sheep-herding canine.
As far as the looks are concerned, the German Shepherd was able to retain (albeit gentler) the facial features of its wolf ancestors. A zealous but serene pair of eyes is evenly set above its protruding black muzzle. It also wears a double coat, with the fur around its neck almost as thick and opulent as the hairs covering its tail.
The German Shepherd is one of the two most ideal candidates (other than the Belgian Malinois) in the US military due to its courage, a keen sense of smell, alertness, intelligence, and discipline. It also leaves the same positive impression in the law enforcement agency (K-9 unit).
Needless to say, German Shepherds are never meant for pet owners with a sedentary lifestyle.
- Estimated Price: from $1,500 to $6,500
- Average Lifespan: 7 to 10 years
- Average Weight: 60 to 90 lbs (male), 50 to 70 lbs (female)
- Average Height: 24 to 26 inches (male), 22 to 24 inches (female)
- AKC Popularity Rank: 2nd
