Dogs of Germany
There are over thirty breeds of dog from Germany. Some of the breeds are more familiar to the world, such as the Great Dane and Rottweiler. Yet also among them are little known breeds, such as the Hovawart, Leonberger, and Pudelpointer. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes over a dozen dog breeds from Germany.There is also a variety of dog types from Germany, although most of them are either companion or hunting dogs, however there are herding and terriers as well. The companion breeds range from the Miniature Pinscher and Schnauzer to the Pomeranian and Keeshond. The latter breeds were once considered to simply be a variation of the German Spitz, and in some countries they are still viewed this way today.
German hunting dog breeds include the German Spaniel, four separate breeds of German Pointing Dogs, the Pudelpointer, and even the Great Dane was once used for hunting. The hunting abilities of the Great Dane are often overlooked, most think of the breed as a guard dog, or simply a companion; however they were once commonly used to hunt wild boar, deer, and wolves. The Boxer also shares this misconception; they are another German hunting dog, used for boar, bear, and deer.
Germany is also the home, as the name suggests, of the German Shepherd Dog. World renown for their intelligence and wide range of abilities, these dogs are suited to many tasks including police work, search and rescue, and military duties. Originally the breed was used for herding livestock, but today is more commonly used for the tasks above, or simply as a household companion. Another multi talented breed, but one not nearly as well known, is the Leonberger. This German dog’s abilities include livestock guarding, obedience, and in its homeland is often used for search and rescue.
