German Shepherds are a popular and versatile breed, and their mixes often inherit many of their desirable traits. If you’re wondering “What is my German Shepherd mixed with?”, you’re not alone. Identifying a mixed breed can be a fun and fascinating journey. This article will explore common German Shepherd mixes, what characteristics they often display, and how you might uncover your dog’s unique blend of genes.
Why Determine the Mix?
Understanding your German Shepherd’s mix can be incredibly beneficial:
- Health: Some mixes are prone to specific health issues. Knowing the potential risks allows for proactive care.
- Temperament: Different breeds bring different temperaments. Understanding the mix helps anticipate behavior and training needs.
- Exercise Needs: High-energy breeds mixed with German Shepherds will require more exercise.
- Grooming: Coat types vary greatly among breeds. Knowing the mix can help you prepare for shedding and grooming needs.
Common German Shepherd Mixes
Let’s explore some of the most common German Shepherd mixes and their typical characteristics:
Shepsky (German Shepherd x Siberian Husky)
- Appearance: Medium to large with an athletic build. The coat can resemble either a Husky or a German Shepherd, or a combination of both.
- Temperament: Extremely active and needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Energy Level: High.
Golden Shepherd (German Shepherd x Golden Retriever)
- Appearance: Medium to large with a short to medium-length double coat, which might be golden, black, or black and tan.
- Temperament: Friendly and affectionate, can be good family dogs, as long as they get enough training and exercise.
- Energy Level: Similar to both parent breeds.
Shollie (German Shepherd x Border Collie)
- Appearance: Usually medium to large in stature, while their double coat is short to medium in length and comes in many different colors.
- Temperament: Phenomenal dogs that do best when given a job to do, whether herding or training for dog sports and plenty of exercise. Intelligent with strong herding skills.
- Energy Level: Very high. They need a minimum of two long walks or two hours of intense play every day.
Sheprador/Labrashepherd (German Shepherd x Labrador Retriever)
- Appearance: Likely to be medium to large, with a double coat that varies in length.
- Temperament: High intelligence, trainability, and loyalty.
- Energy Level: Active and energetic, so exercise is key.
Shepherd Pit/German Pit (German Shepherd x Pit Bull)
- Appearance: Medium to large in size and might have a muscular body. The coat can be longer with an undercoat, short and smooth, or somewhere in between.
- Temperament: Loyal and attentive, so consistent training is essential.
- Energy Level: High.
Corman Shepherd/Corgi Shepherd (German Shepherd x Corgi)
- Appearance: Usually has the short legs of a Corgi with the body of a German Shepherd. The double coat is short to medium in length and can be black and tan like a Shepherd, black, tan, bi-colored, or tri-colored.
- Temperament: Increased herding instincts.
- Energy Level: High. Needs abundant exercise.
Boxer Shepherd/German Boxer (German Shepherd x Boxer)
- Appearance: Usually muscular and athletic but doesn’t often resemble either of the parent breeds. Their coat may be short and smooth or medium-long.
- Temperament: Smart and energetic.
Mastiff Shepherd (German Shepherd x Bull Mastiff)
- Appearance: Height of a Bull Mastiff German Shepherd mix to fall between 60-70cm and its weight to be around 36kg. Fur that ranges in color from red, black to silver and sandy tones.
- Temperament: Powerful.
- Energy Level: Moderate.
German Sharpherd (German Shepherd x Shar Pei)
- Appearance: A German Shepherd Shar Pei mix tend to take after the German Shepherd in appearance, but the wrinkles on the face and shoulders are pure Shar Pei.
- Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, affectionate to its owners but reserved among strangers. They will bark at anything they think is suspicious and are willing to guard and defend their family.
- Energy Level: Moderate.
Bernese Shepherd (German Shepherd x Bernese Mountain Dog)
- Appearance: The Bernese Mountain Dog German Shepherd mix takes much of its appearance from the Bernese side. They have a large frame, a long muzzle, almond-shaped eyes, and pointed ears with some feathering.
- Temperament: N/A.
- Energy Level: Moderate.
German Corso (German Shepherd x Cane Corso)
- Appearance: A Cane Corso German Shepherd mix breed is likely to be a massive dog.
- Temperament: Loyal and protective traits. This dog will require early training and socialization to ensure they’re a safe pet once they grow up.
- Energy Level: Moderate.
Pugger Shepherd (German Shepherd x Pug)
- Appearance: The Pug German Shepherd mix is chubby, stocky, and intelligent.
- Temperament: Very happy and friendly dogs. They greet strangers cheerfully and have a great rapport with children. However, they’re hostile to other canines and pets.
- Energy Level: Moderate.
Identifying Characteristics
When trying to figure out what your German Shepherd is mixed with, consider the following:
- Size and Build: Is your dog larger or smaller than a typical German Shepherd? Are they stocky or lean?
- Coat Type and Color: German Shepherds typically have a medium-length double coat in black and tan. Does your dog have a different coat length, texture, or color?
- Head and Ear Shape: Note the shape of the head and ears. Do they resemble another breed?
- Tail: Is the tail long and bushy, short, or curled?
- Temperament and Behavior: Does your dog exhibit traits commonly associated with other breeds, such as herding, guarding, or high energy?
Methods to Determine the Mix
- Visual Assessment: Compare your dog’s physical characteristics and temperament to those of common German Shepherd mixes.
- DNA Testing: The most accurate way to determine your dog’s mix is through a DNA test. These tests analyze your dog’s genetic makeup and can identify the breeds in their ancestry.
- Consult Professionals: Veterinarians, breeders, and experienced dog trainers may be able to offer insights based on their knowledge of different breeds.
The Benefits of Knowing
Once you’ve identified your German Shepherd’s mix, you can better tailor their care:
- Diet: Adjust their diet based on their size, energy level, and potential health concerns.
- Exercise: Provide the appropriate amount of exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
- Training: Use training methods that are effective for their specific temperament and breed characteristics.
- Health Monitoring: Be aware of potential health issues associated with the breeds in their mix and monitor for any signs or symptoms.
- Grooming: Establish a grooming routine that suits their coat type and shedding patterns.
Conclusion
Discovering what your German Shepherd is mixed with can be a rewarding experience. By carefully observing their physical characteristics, temperament, and behavior, and utilizing DNA testing if desired, you can unlock the secrets of their heritage. This knowledge will empower you to provide the best possible care, ensuring a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life for your unique and wonderful companion.