16. German Shepherd

Known for their intelligence, German Shepherds are excellent guard dogs and are praised as the world’s leading police and military breed. They are extremely loyal and devoted to their master and love to be close to their human family.

According to the American Kennel Club, ‘’the German Shepherd Dog originated in 1899 at Karlsruhe, Germany due to the efforts of Captain Max von Stephanitz and others. Derived from the old breeds of herding and farm dogs, the first German Shepherd Dog exhibited in America was in 1907. The fame associated with Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, two members of the breed whose movies played on variations of the boy and his dog theme, shot the popularity of the breed sky-high.’’

Apart from their inherent guarding instinct, the German Shepherd is also a loving and joyful family companion. They get along well with kids and other animals, if properly trained and socialized.

This dog breed requires a dominant and firm owner who will clearly set the rules and boundaries of behavior. The German Shepherd learns quickly and will protect you and your family to death.

Bear in mind that German Sepherds aren’t dogs that can lay around your living room all day. They need lots of physical and mental activity in order to be healthy and happy pets.

Their life expectancy is around 13 years and you should also know that they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, digestive problems, bloat, epilepsy, chronic eczema, keratitis, dwarfism and flea allergies.

They are the second most popular dog breed in the United States and the ASPCA estimates $1,580 annual cost for a German Shepherd Dog; the lifetime financial commitment is around $15,000.