One of the most popular dog breeds today is the German shepherd. They have many innate traits that make them the perfect family pet. They are medium sized, friendly, gentle and highly active which are all things a young growing family can work with. In addition to that, these dogs are also very intelligent and trainable so many times they are chosen for working dogs. An interesting fact is that most people probably do not realize that there are several different types of German shepherd.  Different German shepherd types will vary not only in appearance but in temperament, ability and personality also. Below are a few of the most common types of German shepherd.

West German Show lines

West German show lines are closest to the standard in breed and is the most popular in Germany, not surprisingly! These are generally used as breeding and show dogs. They are also trained frequently as working dogs. Sporting events, blind Seeing Eye dogs and herding are all potential fields a German shepherd can excel in. Overall, this is a strong and sound line but poor specimens may have a shorter fuse.

East German Lines

East German bloodlines have a much heavier bone structure and big heads; this makes them ideal candidates for working dogs. This line of German shepherd was developed from breeds that survived WWII in East Germany. For the most part this breed is very sharp and trainable, however a few are not. Although they are currently being integrated into the working lines, it is important to note that they are a totally different breed.

German Working Lines

The service dogs you see in airports and police cars will come from the German working lines. These animals are bred specifically for this purpose and can be found sniffing for bombs, touring military bases and riding around with the local K-9 unit of the police force. They share many elegant features with the show dog breeds. One thing to note about the German working line is that they do not make great pets; they are more naturally aggressive than other lines.

American Show Lines

Since the 1970′s the predominant North American, German shepherd has been the American show line. They are a combination of stud dog and show dog, very successfully at that. This line does not require certifications or working titles. These dogs have an elongated body, which is elevated in the rear. If you want a family pet, this is the breed line you want as they have a gently temperament.

British Lines

After World War II, a line was imported from Britain, adequately named the British line. Lean in the shoulders, elongated bodies and heavy bones make up this beautiful German shepherd. This line also has a soft temperament and though they can be used as police dogs, they are being replaced by German working lines.

White Lines

In many countries, the white lines are not considered part of the German shepherd breed. In spite of many campaigns for breed recognition owners had to settle for a new breed name. Swiss Shepherd Dog is the name recognized by the FCI for the white German shepherd.

Whether you are looking for a show, working or stud dog German shepherds are a sound breed. All that is left to do is find the correct bloodline for whichever purpose you have chosen.