Out of 43 German Shepherd mixes, which is the one for you? - K9 Web (2024)

Last Updated on April 18, 2023

There are hundreds of recognized dog breeds worldwide, and designer dogs have been popping up in the last decade.

The rise of the Labradoodles glamorized mixed breeds, and people have been on the lookout for the next rising star ever since.

German Shepherds (GSDs) are one of the best-loved breeds in America. It’s no surprise that they have been integrated into many new crossbreeds today.

The German Shepherd

Also known as Alsatians, German Shepherds are best known for their undying loyalty and for being fiercely protective. The idea of a GSD automatically makes you think of a police dog, and there’s a good reason why.

These dogs are super trainable, intuitive, and obedient. They make wonderful guard dogs as well as a great family dog.

A large dog with an even larger heart, purebred German Shepherds have minimal health issues. Their biggest problem is their joints, spine, and a tendency to have sensitive stomachs.

Crossbreed enthusiasts believe that mixed dogs are healthier because their gene pools are wider, which lessens the chance of inheriting any faulty genes.

Aside from health, certain traits might not suit certain people. For instance, the GSD’s double coat or extreme energy levels might be overwhelming for some. They can also be hard to handle for first-time owners.

The idea of a designer dog is that you can take the best qualities of both breeds. The Golden Shepherd is one of the most popular crosses.

The Golden Retriever mix is often friendlier than purebred Alsatians and is more adept at swimming.

However, since genetics is not as simple as one plus one, you have to be prepared that the crossbreed will not inherit the exact traits that you want your dog to have. Even the Labradoodle isn’t always hypoallergenic.

Crossbreeds are also meant to be more affordable, but mix-breed dogs can also command a rather steep price. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $3000 for one, depending on where you get your puppy from.

If a hefty price tag is your concern, you can check out the local shelters for a dog that needs a home!

Quick Choices for Top GSD Mixes

• Best low-shedding GSD mix: Shepadoodle
• Best GSD mix for families: Sheprador
• Best GSD mix for kids: Golden Shepherd
• Best for apartments and small spaces: Shepherd Chihuahua
• Best for the military: Shepherd Pit
• Best for Hunting: Shepherd Beagle

43 Most Popular German Shepherd Mixes

The German Shepherd dog is a gorgeous creature, but crossbreeds can be captivating to look at. Have you seen a Pomsky?

The Pomeranian Husky mix is the latest trend in designer dogs because they are completely fluffy and adorable.

You won’t get any forever puppies with this working dog mix, though, but what you’ll get is a big dog that will be an excellent watchdog or family dog.

Before you get a bed for your new pooch off Amazon, take a moment to discover the many different GSD mixes below!

1. Akita Shepherd (Akita German Shepherd mix)

The Shepkita is an independent pooch that doesn’t fare well as family pets or first dogs. Being protective and independent, they require lots of socialization and obedience training.

Akita Shepherds bond strongly and will be unfailingly loyal and goofy companions to their special person.

When it comes to appearance, they usually take after the thick double coat of both parent breeds and have the Akita’s curled tail. They can grow up to 120 lbs (54 kg) and reach 28 inches (71 cm).

2. Shiloh Shepherd (Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix)

When you put two high-energy herding dogs together, you’ll get a dog that requires lots of stimulation. These dogs absolutely love to work.

The Malamute is also a protective family dog, so you’ll be sure that the Alaskan Shepherd will need an experienced or determined owner.

Mals are quite big, and you can expect them to grow up to 130 lbs (58 kg) and be as tall as 28 inches (71 cm).

3. Shepherd Bulldog (American Bulldog German Shepherd mix)

American Bulldog Shepherds can be predisposed to breathing problems but should be less prone than their purebred parents. These dogs are sweethearts, but they can also get quite territorial.

They are more relaxed and aren’t as high-strung as their GSD parents but will still require a firm hand in training and exercise.

These mixes can be anywhere from 60 to 90 lbs (13 to 40 kg). They shouldn’t exceed 26 inches (66 cm).

4. Basset Shepherd (Basset Hound German Shepherd mix)

The Basset Hound is renowned for his nose, but the GSD also has a pair of powerful sniffers. Both dogs were used in the police force for guarding, sniffing out drugs and bombs, as well as in search-and-rescue.

With proper socialization, Shepherd Hounds can get along well with children since both parent breeds are known to love kids.

Depending on which parent they take after, they can vary from 12 to 20 inches (30.48 cm) and can be anywhere from 50 to 75 lbs (22 to 34 kg).

5. Shepherd Beagle (Beagle German Shepherd mix)

A hunter and a shepherd — put them together, and you have a ball of energy on your hands. Beagle Shepherds can grow up to 50 lbs (22 kg) but are often smaller, not growing past 24 inches (60 cm).

If they inherit the Beagle’s affinity for howling, you’re in for some laughs. The Beagle is also well known for being hard-headed, and they aren’t the easiest dogs to train.

But with patience and perseverance, these pups will be a friendly companion to all.

6. Bernese Shepherd (Bernese Mountain Dog German Shepherd mix)

The Sheparnese, also known as Euro Mountain Sheparnese, wants nothing more than to be a devoted shadow. He can be willful and rebellious, but he is sure to turn a few heads.

These pooches are on the larger side, growing up to 28 inches (71 cm) and weighing 110 lbs (49 kg).

They aren’t the best companion for little children, as they don’t have the patience for grabby little hands and poking fingers.

Best for experienced owners who know how to guide them with a firm and loving hand.

7. Cattle Shepherd (Australian Cattle Dog German Shepherd mix)

If you’re looking for a family-friendly dog that is easy to train, look no further than this intelligent mix! Being in the 35 to 90 lbs (15 to 40 kg) range, they are pretty child-friendly.

Although, with their boisterous nature, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them.

Blue Heeler German Shepherds are hardworking dogs that play as hard as they work. Best suited for active families.

8. Boxer Shepherd (Boxer German Shepherd mix)

Standing at 27 inches (68 cm) and weighing up to 95 lbs (43 kg), don’t let this pooch’s intimidating appearance scare you off! Both parents are popular dog breeds and make excellent house pets.

They are active as well as loyal, which means they need lots of stimulation and interaction. Boxer Shepherds will do well in big families with an active lifestyle.

Despite being mentally high maintenance, they don’t require lots of grooming, thanks to their short coats. Being a large breed dog, hip dysplasia is something you want to watch out for.

9. Catahoula Leopard Dog German Shepherd mix

Famed for their mottled coats, the Catahoula Leopard Dog adds a little color to the mix. This breed is said to be directly descended from wolves.

Both parent breeds are relatively similar in size and temperament. They share guarding tendencies, as well as protectiveness.

They are best suited for very experienced dog owners as they can sometimes be quite aloof. You can expect these dogs to be more low-key than purebred Alsatians.

Don’t mistake their quiet nature for a low-energy dog. Quite the contrary, they are working dog that requires lots of stimulation.

10. Shepherd Chow (Chow Chow German Shepherd mix)

If you wondered how a German Shepherd would look with an even thicker coat, here’s the Chow Shepherd. While they won’t get as fluffy as a purebred Chow Chow, you can be sure they need lots of grooming.

Their coat is dense and prone to matting if not taken care of properly.

Personality-wise, the two breeds are quite similar. Affectionate with the family and aloof with strangers. Training and socialization will make them the perfect companion for your family and kids.

11. German Shepherd Corgi (Corgi German Shepherd mix)

We cannot deny the allure of a Corman Shepherd. They might seem like an odd match, but both parents come from herding backgrounds.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was used to herd cattle. Their short stature made them the perfect size to guide cows around without getting kicked.

Growing up to only 15 inches (38 cm), they make delightful apartment dogs. This mix also adds years to the GSD’s lifespan. You can expect them to live till they are 12 – 14 years old.

However, due to their long backs, they might be prone to spinal problems, just as the Corgi parent is.

12. Coyote German Shepherd mix

This unique crossbreed is not common at all. The Coyote is a wild dog that travels well over 13 miles (20 km) daily. If you can’t keep up with them and give them sufficient exercise, you’re better off with a different mix.

Also known as a Coydog, they do live up to their name. They are usually shy around strangers but can be very affectionate with the one they love.

13. Dachshund Shepherd (Dachshund German Shepherd mix)

Possibly one of the smallest dogs on this list. Dachshund Shepherds rarely go over 20 inches (50 cm) tall or 60 lbs (27 kg).

This would make them a great apartment dog, if not for the fact that they might get agitated and bark a lot.

Aside from that, they are an energetic dog that needs space to run and play, regardless of size. They usually range between 50 to 60 lbs (22 to 27 kg) but can be as small as 16 lbs (7 kg) or as big as 26 inches (66 cm)!

14. Doberman Shepherd (Doberman Pinscher German Shepherd mix)

A large dog that can grow up to 110 lbs (49 kg), the Doberman Shepherd needs discipline from a young age to prevent them from becoming hard to handle when they are fully grown.

They also need lots of exercise and socialization. They are efficient guard dogs but will act like a puppy with their owners.

Due to their short coats, they don’t need a lot of grooming but will need to be protected from extreme weather.

15. German Anatolian Shepherd (Anatolian Shepherd German Shepherd mix)

These gentle guardians fare better when given work to do. With both parents from shepherding backgrounds, they are both driven and fiercely protective of their flock.

You will need to teach him the difference between friend and foe.

While they love children, they might be a little too big for them, being on the larger end of the spectrum. They have the potential to grow up to 125 lbs (56 kg).

This Kangal mix can be quite an intimidating dog to own, especially since the purebred Anatolian Shepherd can have a bite force of 743 PSI.

16. German Australian Shepherd (Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix)

Perhaps one of the reasons this breed is so endearing is that the Aussie might add its curious Merle coloring to the mix!

German Shepherd Aussies are highly adventurous and would suit an athletic family that’s always on the go. Since both parent breeds are around the same size, there won’t be any surprises there.

This is another cross with a strong work ethic and herding instincts. A dedicated owner or an experienced one would be better for this active cross.

17. German Pomeranian (Pomeranian German Shepherd mix)

Pomeranians add extra fluff and cuteness to any crossbreed. These German Pommies might be small, but they have big personalities and can be slightly bossy.

If shedding or regular grooming is a problem, this probably isn’t the mix for you because they have lots of fur!

They do make great apartment dogs. The German Shepherd’s calmness generally balances out the Pomeranian’s yappy behavior. They are just the right size, too, usually growing up to 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm).

Don’t mistake their small size for a low energy breed, though! These little pooches can keep up with you and need at least two daily walks.

18. German Ridgeback (Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix)

An uncommon sight, this Rhodesian Ridgeback mix adds the German Shepherd’s strong work ethic and intuitive nature with the Ridgeback’s tracking abilities, making a hunter to be reckoned with.

They usually have leaner bodies and thinner coats, but make no mistake, they do require similar amounts of grooming and exercise. This cross can also get quite destructive if they are bored.

19. German Sheppit (Pit Bull German Shepherd mix)

The Pit Bull Terrier gets a bad rep due to the dogfighting industry. They are actually affectionate sweethearts if given a chance to live in a loving home with a gentle and experienced owner.

Shepherd Pits are independent dogs that can be hard to handle for novice owners, but they are easy to train.

You’ll need space to keep this little one occupied because apartments just won’t cut it. You’ll have to spend upwards of three hours a day to keep this Pitbull mix happy and content!

20. German Wolf Dog (Wolf German Shepherd mix)

The Czechoslovakian Wolf Dog was initially created with the German Shepherd and the Carpathian Wolf. Breeding them with a GSD will make them more manageable and less assertive.

Any dogs with wolf content aren’t great for little kids or cats as they have a very strong prey drive. You may try to diffuse this with lots of socialization, but why not choose a more tolerant cross instead?

The Tamaskan German Shepherd would be a better choice for families with small children as they are gentle and form solid bonds. But, if you’re looking for a wolf look-a-like, you can check out this guide instead.

21. Shepherd Pei (Chinese Shar-Pei German Shepherd mix)

While German Shar Peis can reach heights of up to 26 inches (66 cm) and weigh up to 90 lbs (40 kg), they are actually great apartment dogs.

Be warned, though, because they take their guarding duties quite seriously, and their bark can be intimidating.

The Shar-Pei is much less active than that German Shepherd, so depending on which parent it takes after, you’re looking anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour of exercise daily.

You should also be mindful of heat exhaustion, especially if they inherit the Shar Pei’s shorter muzzle.

22. Golden Shepherd (Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix)

Golden Retrievers are great for first time owners, but not the Golden Shepherd. When paired with the GSD’s work ethic, you’ll find that they are hard-wired to retrieve and work.

You’ll need to spend lots of time channeling his energy into something constructive, or he will be rather naughty.

With proper training and socialization, Golden Shepherds make marvelous companions for little children. They are patient and oh so loving.

23. Greyhound Shepherd (Greyhound German Shepherd mix)

Loyal and a fast learner, Greyhound Shepherds can be great as a service dog. You will need to dedicate your time to the Shephound to help them reach their full potential.

They also need lots of space since they might grow up to 30 inches (76 cm).

While better suited for experienced owners, they can also be an incredible first-time dog with the right coach and dog trainer. These dogs can really fly across fields and would make a great hunter or running partner.

24. Sheprador (Labrador Retriever German Shepherd mix)

Mix the top two breeds in America and you’ll get a people-pleasing watchdog. Labrashepherds tend to be on the friendly side as long as he’s socialized from a young age.

They will get along well with just about anybody but can be wary of strangers.

These are intelligent dogs with a penchant for work, so you will need to enroll them into agility classes if they aren’t working dogs.

25. Malinois X (Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix)

The Shepinois has been described as a rebellious teenager, but they are quite manageable with proper training. Eager to please and alert, they shouldn’t be hard to train, but they need lots of exercise.

Think three hours and above daily!

This mix may have a protective streak, but they will love being in the center of attention.

They do wonderfully with little children and will protect them like their own pups – just make sure that you teach your little ones not to tug on their ears and hurt them!

26. Mastiff Shepherd (Mastiff German Shepherd mix)

These are big dogs usually falling around the 80 to 200 lbs (36 to 91 kg) range. They are naturally protective but are gentle around children.

These docile dogs can even be left unsupervised with kids, but we always recommend that you should keep a watchful eye over them, at least until the youngsters know how to treat their furry siblings.

Large breeds are more commonly affected by joint problems, and the Mastiff Shepherd is no different. While they need 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise daily, you should be mindful of the intensity.

Brisk walks and moderate exercises on soft surfaces are best.

27. New Shepherd (Newfoundland German Shepherd mix)

Friendly and energetic, the New Shep can grow up to 200 lbs (90 kg). They are remarkable babysitters, though, and will play patiently with your little toddler or cats if they are properly socialized as puppies.

Offspring of two working dogs, they can be quite high-strung and will need lots of activities to burn off their energy. They aren’t tremendously high-energy dogs but would enjoy a daily walk or swim.

28. Saint Shepherd (Saint Bernard German Shepherd mix)

Anyone familiar with Peter Pan might recall that the nanny was a St. Bernard. True enough, these dogs, which have been bred to be rescue dogs, are known to be great caregivers.

Paired with the German Shepherd’s protective instincts, you have the perfect family guardian on your hands.

These dogs grow to be on the larger side and will have the St. Bernard soft floppy ears! Standing full-grown at around 150 lbs (68 kg), they aren’t the largest cross on this list.

But they do require at least 90 minutes of exercise daily.

29. Sheltie Shepherd (Sheltie German Shepherd mix)

The Sheltie Shepherd usually takes after the Sheltie parent in terms of size and coat, without being too profuse. They have one of the longest lifespans of any GSD cross, living up to at least 15 years.

These sweet dogs can have a bit of a herding problem. They are shepherds, after all! It’s nothing that a little training won’t fix, as they are incredibly receptive dogs.

30. Shepadoodle (Poodle German Shepherd mix)

Poodle mixes are by far the most popular. Why? Because they tend not to shed, and allergy sufferers can keep them without any adverse effects.

By mixing the intelligent and devoted Poodle with the German Shepherd, you’ll get an easily trained, easy going, eager pup!

They can come in a range of sizes, depending on what size their parent poodle is. Generally, they would be bred to a standard-sized Poodle and grow up to roughly 50 to 90 lbs.

31. Dane Shepherd (Great Dane German Shepherd mix)

Slender and imposing, the Shepherdane adds years to the Great Dane’s lifespan. You can expect them to live up to 13 years. They generally have short, dense coats that only require minimal brushing.

These big dogs are lapdogs at heart! They love chilling with their humans and are prone to separation anxiety. Don’t be surprised when your 30 inches (76 cm) tall German Dane tries to climb onto your lap.

32. Shepherd Chihuahua (Chihuahua German Shepherd mix)

When you put a tiny dog and a big dog together, there’s no telling how big their offspring will end up. If space is an issue, you probably don’t want to take the risk with this feisty little dog.

Most likely, they will be medium-sized, which is to say, less than 22 inches. Chihuahuas are naturally confident and demanding. This mix rarely gets along well with children and tends to struggle with being alone.

33. Shepnees (Great Pyrenees German Shepherd mix)

The Great Pyrenees is not known for this bite, despite being a fearsome looking creature. His calm demeanor and gentle nature add balance to the GSD’s protectiveness.

They are slow to mature, but once they grow out of their puppy behavior, they become solemn and nurturing.

Germanees aren’t ideal for first-time owners because they can be stubborn and require lots of stimulation. Can you imagine having a destructive dog weighing up to 120 lbs (54 kg) at 32 inches (78 cm) tall?

34. Gerberian Shepsky (Siberian Husky German Shepherd mix)

These dogs shed a lot. You’ll need to deal with bi-annual moltings, which are known as blowouts. Shepskies are high maintenance dogs that don’t do well alone.

If you leave them for too long, they’ll entertain themselves with howling, digging, chewing, and escaping.

Don’t expect that they will do well in apartments. Your Gerberian Shepsky will need to have a well-fenced yard and plenty of exercise.

35. Sheptese (Maltese German Shepherd mix)

Probably the rarest crossbreed on this list. The Sheptese will likely look like a miniature German Shepherd. Depending on whose coat it inherits, you might have a hypoallergenic fluffer on your hands.

They are usually on the medium to the small side and shouldn’t go over 20 inches. Based on the information we have, the Sheptese is small like a Maltese and smart like a German Shepherd.

36. Shepherd Inu (Shiba Inu German Shepherd mix)

Alsatians have a bit of a reputation for being clingy to their owners. Shiba Inus rarely have this problem.

If anything, they are more like cats and have an independent streak. This makes the Shepherd Inu perfect for busy parents.

However, they have a high prey drive and a strong work ethic. If left to their own devices without proper training and socialization, this intelligent pooch will get into lots of trouble.

They are usually medium-sized and can live in apartments, provided they get their daily exercise.

37. Shollie (Border Collie German Shepherd mix)

Border Collies are smart, and so is the German Shepherd. Coupled with their passion for working, the Shollie is every farmhand’s dream.

This means that they won’t make great housepets unless you’ll be able to dedicate hours to exercising them.

Being bred for shepherding, these dogs are lovely babysitters but may herd the little ones. It’s nothing a little correcting can’t fix.

38. Shottie (Rottweiler German Shepherd mix)

The Rottweiler and Alsatian have one thing in common: they are heavily featured in the police academy. They are extremely obedient and loyal to a fault.

You can expect your Shepweiler (AKA Rottie Shepherd) to demonstrate the same traits.

A popular cross, the Shottie is a powerful dog that can get along well with children. They can be hard to handle as adults without proper training as they can be quite boisterous.

39. Shug (Pug German Shepherd mix)

Pugs are tiny companion dogs. Pairing them together with the GSD can alleviate some of the Pug’s hereditary breathing problems. However, Shugs can also inherit their delicate snouts.

This medium-sized dog won’t grow past 12 inches (30 cm) and can be a great choice for first-time owners or apartment dwellers.

Sweet and cheerful, they will get along with just about anyone and anything.

40. Spanierd (Springer Spaniel German Shepherd mix)

The Spanierd can grow up to 50 lbs (22 kg) and often have floppy ears. They are also more likely to have the Springer Spaniel’s long hair and inherit the GSD’s double coat.

They are affable and make great companions, especially for those who live in an active household. Expect to spend more than an hour to 90 minutes on exercise daily!

41. Airedale Shepherd (Airedale Terrier German Shepherd mix)

Easy to train and obedient are words that are thrown around when describing the Airedale Shepherd. They get along swimmingly with people from all walks of life and even get along with cats.

This doesn’t just happen overnight, though. You will need to spend time training your pooch. Use kindness and don’t get impatient.

These sensitive and intuitive dogs can sense it and will associate training with making you unhappy.

42. Weimshepherd (Weimaraner German Shepherd mix)

Weimshepherds really aren’t a great first-time dog. They are exuberant and excitable and intelligent – not a great combination for novice dog owners who don’t know how to handle them.

However, with perseverance, you’ll have a majestic dog that resembles the Weimaraner more in terms of looks, but with the GSD’s loyalty and protectiveness.

When playing with little children, it’s good to have an adult supervising. They tend to be rowdy and might mistake a toddler’s accidental shove as an invitation to start roughhousing.

43. Yorkshire Terrier German Shepherd mix

The Yorkshire Terrier is a pretty little guy, but he was bred to be a ratter. Pairing him up with the large and work-obsessed German Shepherd might cause the Yorkie GSD to be a tad stubborn.

They are generally medium-sized fellas, with a svelte figure. But don’t let their small frame fool you because they’re highly active fidos.

44. King Shepherd

How can any German Shepherd crossbreed list be complete without the King Shepherd? Made up of many different breeds, the King Shepherd was developed in 1990, right here in America.

Highly trainable and non-aggressive, they are sweet to children and surprisingly great apartment dogs. Although, they do require lots of exercise.

Which German Shepherd Mixes are Your Favorites?

Designer dogs should serve some higher purpose other than just being cute. The Poodle mix is an ideal crossbreed because they can be hypoallergenic, making them a great option for dog lovers with allergies.

What do you think? Are there any German Shepherd mixes that add value to the original parent breeds? Share your thoughts in the comments!