8. American Alsatian

This breed of dog was a long time coming, according to The National American Alsatian Club. Originally conceived by breeder, Lois Denny, in 1969, it wasn’t until 18 years later that Denny would whelp the first set of pups – the pre-curser to today’s American Alsatian.

Denny’s first litter was a cross between an Alaskan Malamute and a German Shepherd, both purebreds. Through the years, she continued to tweak and perfect the breed until she eventually achieved the dog we know today.

This breed was specifically bred to have a mellow disposition. Not big on barking, an American Alsatian is a calm and intelligent animal whose wild, wolf-like appearance often deceives. This breed is a large dog that can reach a weight of up to 120 pounds. He has a thick double-coat that doesn’t take well to extreme heat.

If you keep an American Alsatian outside, ensure he has adequate shade and water. This breed’s long coat also has a tendency to shed both dirt and odors, making him particularly appealing to pet owners. He requires frequent brushing to keep him looking and feeling well-groomed.

Alsatians are a hardy breed that seem to have a resilience to disease, though cases of epilepsy and arthritis have been reported. They don’t have a predisposition to genetic issues that some breeds exhibit – another selling point for prospective Alsatian owners.

This breed has undergone several name changes throughout the years as new breeds were introduced into the bloodline to add different characteristics. At different times called the North American Shepalute and the Alsatian Shepalute to pay homage to its shepherd/malamute heritage, the name was eventually changed to American Alsatian to distinguish it from the Alsatians of Great Britain and New Zealand lineage.

Today, an American Alsatian puppy with a top-of-the-line temperament runs about $1,500.