The German shepherd breed is generally considered one of the most intelligent, dedicated, loyal, and family orientated companions available in the doggy world.
Whether they’re short-haired German shepherds or long-haired, these canines make excellent guard dogs and usually get along very well with children. Throwing in a mix to this breed just strengthens and enhances these naturally appealing traits.
So without further ado, let’s check ’em out!
18 Great German Shepherd Mixes!
We’ve collected a list of 18 German shepherd mixed breeds for you – let us know at the end which are your favorites!
1. Golden Shepherd (German Shepherd x Golden Retriever Mix)
The golden shepherd is a golden-haired beauty that will definitely win your heart with those soulful eyes. This golden retriever and German shepherd mix is an affectionate sweetheart who thrives on one-on-one interaction with her owners and especially adores the tiny human variety.
This makes the golden shepherd the perfect family-with-kids choice. Both retriever and shepherd parents love to eat, so make sure you keep this marvelous mix at a healthy weight.
2. The Shug (German Shepherd x Pug Mix)
This miracle mutt is none other than the German shepherd pug. The best of both doggie worlds are all rolled up into this one adorable and energetic bundle of joy. This pug and shepherd breed is an extremely loyal companion, loves his human family, exhibits impressive intelligence, and serves as an alert guard dog.
3. Chow Shepherd or Chow Chow (German Shepherd x Chow Mix)
This cutie’s face will always be begging for cuddles. Don’t be alarmed when he licks your nose though – the Chow Shepherd sometimes sports the same spotted tongue common to his chow ancestors. It’s worth noting that Chow Chow mixed breeds have the potential to be more aloof and independent thinking, as is common for the chow cow. Combining that with the German shepherd dog’s more watchful and nervous nature could result in a challenging dog – but it really depends on the individual pup.
4. Labrashepherd (German Shepherd x Labrador Mix)
The Labrashepherd (also known as a Sheprador) is a calm, loving and even-tempered animal with a touch of the shyness from the German shepherd parent shining through when he is presented with new situations. Labrador retrievers have a kind and happy demeanor which definitely shines through in this canine cross. This German shepherd Labrador retriever mix is gloriously beautiful and loves a good play session in the park.
5. Siberian Shepherd or Gerberian Shepsky (German Shepherd x Siberian Husky Mix)
This exquisitely handsome boy is a German shepherd husky mix that will have you falling over your feet when he looks at you with that one baby blue. Love at first sight for sure.
And the bonus? He loves you just as fiercely. He’s real hard-worker too – an inherited trait from the husky breed parentage. Make sure these energized pups have plenty of exercise, puzzle toys, and activities to provide mental stimulation.
6. Shollie (German Shepherd x Collie Mix)
A unique combination of the collie and German shepherd gives us this gorgeous designer breed. She is amazingly even-tempered temperament, very eager to learn, and easily trained through basic obedience training. Be prepared to groom the German shepherd collie mix every day though, as those locks are relatively high maintenance.
7. Corman Shepherd (German Shepherd x Corgi Mix)
Corman Shepherds are a bold and energetic bundle of dynamite. A herder by nature and a loyal companion, it’s vital that you take the time to train these active dynamos as the German shepherd corgi mix can become a little destructive when they are bored and not sufficiently stimulated. If you’re a Corgi fan, make sure you check out our list of Corgi mixed breeds too!
8. Shepweiler or Rottweiler Shepherd (German Shepherd x Rottweiler Mix)
Shepweilers are immensely protective of their owners, family, and surroundings and make excellent guard dogs. Well-muscled, protective dogs who can always be found at your side? Sounds good to me! As with both of this canine cross’ parent breeds, the Shepweiler learns best with positive reinforcement and patient, consistent training.
9. Shepadoodle (German Shepherd x Poodle Mix)
The mix of poodle and German shepherd give you this devoted, loyal, and hard-working companion. The German shepherd poodle mix needs your constant companionship and will follow wherever you may lead. The poodle breed genes are relatively dominant in this dog, resulting in the somewhat curly fur coat.
10. Wolf Shepherd (German Shepherd x Wolf Mix)
Wow! What a striking and intimidating doggo. This breed is a cross between a domesticated German shepherd and a genuine wolf.
Please keep in mind that these animals are illegal to own in certain areas, so please research carefully to avoid any heartbreak should you not be able to keep him legally. Designer breeders for a cross as unique as this one can be challenging to come by.
With a sensitive temperament and above average hearing, you have a guard dog of indisputable qualities. These dogs are natural hunters, so it will be wise to keep him separate from other small pets like cats, rabbits, and hamsters. This isn’t a great breed cross for a first time dog owner.
11. Shepkita (German Shepherd x Akita Mix)
This German shepherd Akita mix is an ideal family dog who has tolerance and patience with even the youngest children. He is super-friendly but an excellent protector. He does, however, require intensive training, as he loves a challenge and can often be considered a little stubborn.
12. Alaskan Shepherd (German Shepherd x Alaskan Malamute Mix)
Look at that fluffy coat! This dog is an interesting mix of German shepherd and the Alaskan malamute. This is one amazingly beautiful animal. They possess the best of both breeds in strength, loyalty, friendliness, and trainability. And such a cutie to boot!
13. Euro Mountain Sheparnese (German Shepherd x Bernese Mountain Dog Mix)
This willful, sometimes stubborn, but ever-friendly babe, is a mix of the Bernese mountain dog and German shepherd.
Almost like having a teenager in the house, these shepherd-type dogs will test your patience and push the boundaries, so training is vital. They do not like isolation but prefer being your constant, loyal companion as the parent breeds are both “Velcro” dogs.
14. German Sheppit (German Shepherd x Pitbull Mix)
A vibrant, loyal, and energetic German shepherd and pit bull mix. Now who can resist that innocent, “Nope, it wasn’t me” face? These shepherd pit sweeties are sure to appreciate a game of fetch with their favorite human!
Innocence aside, the German shepherd pit bull mix is a powerful animal with a high energy level and training is thus non-negotiable. German shepherd pit bulls need a firm, strong, but loving owner and handler.
15. New Shep (German Shepherd x Newfoundland Mix)
This breed is an interesting mix of the Newfoundland and German shepherd, forming a giant powder-puff who loves water! He’ll make the perfect swimming companion for your children. Devoted, loyal, obedient and easily trainable, you can’t ask for much more.
The one drawback is that these canine cuties have a double coat and are bound to shed heavily, but it’s a small price to pay for this gentle giant. If you’re a Newfie diehard, check out our Newfoundland mixed breed list too!
16. Saint Shepherd (German Shepherd x Saint Bernard Mix)
The biggest requirement before bringing your Saint Shepherd home? Well, space of course! This is a giant dog and needs plenty of room to run off all that excess energy. You’ll also want to pick out a reliable vacuum for that gorgeous double coat.
This behemoth is a loyal, loving, and protective, yet intimidating watchdog, probably due to its sheer size. But be honest – what a cutie pie!
17. German Ridgeback (German Shepherd x Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix)
These dogs have a strong sense of loyalty and are hard workers. But beware, do not leave this puppy to his own devices – you might not particularly like the end results! He craves constant attention and will happily be your permanent side-kick. With both parents spanning at least 22 inches tall, you’ll have to make room for this dashing dog.
18. German Australian Shepherd (German Shepherd x Australian Shepherd Mix)
An extremely intelligent, alert, loyal addition to your home, with the added advantage of having the heart of a warrior. These canine cuties would benefit from an active family. Fiercely protective of its home and surroundings, you won’t have much to worry about.
There you go German shepherd lovers and fans. With such a gorgeous collection of GSD mixes, it’s no surprise that German shepherds are one of the most expensive breeds out there!
Please leave a comment on what you think the best German shepherd mixed breed out there is, or share your own cross-breed companion that we might have missed!
And, if you have your own GSD or GSD-mix at home, make sure to check out our guide to the best dog toys for german shepherds as well as our piece on the best dog food for german shepherds too!
FAQ About German Shepherd Mixes
If you’re still on the hunt for one of these sweet and spirited German shepherd mixes, check out some of these commonly asked questions and answers.
What are the specific guidelines for adopting a German Shepherd mix?
Good breeders will only sell to a family with a yard and German shepherd experience, as German shepherd mixes need plenty of space for these dogs to run around freely to get exercise. German shepherd mixes (as well as purebred German shepherds) should also be owner primarily by those who have experience with the breed, as German shepherds are naturally prone to anxiety and need an experienced, confident handler.
A reputable breeder should offer a written contract that guarantees the puppy back from the buyer if they can’t keep it. The breeder should meet our breeder checklist, have been in business for several years, and their puppies should be well socialized. Make sure to meet the parents, and do not purchase puppies if you can’t meet the parents, or if the parents show signs of fear, stress, or aggression.
How much does it cost to adopt a German shepherd mix?
The cost varies from place to place and breeder to breeder, but on average, expect to spend about $400 to $800 for a mixed breed German shepherd pup. If you adopt a German shepherd mix from a shelter, pricing will vary depending on the rescue, usually with a range from $0 to $300.
Are there any health issues associated with German shepherd mixes?
If a German shepherd mix is not from a good breeder, then there may be health problems. German shepherds are prone to a number of different genetic health conditions. The most common health concerns include hip, elbow, and joint dysplasia, cancer, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, narcolepsy, and eye problems.
As with any dog, it’s important to keep German shepherd mixes up to date on all veterinary checkups.
Are German shepherd mixes active?
While canine crosses can take on any combination of traits from either of their pooch parents, German shepherds require plenty of daily exercise. GSDs have a high activity level and need to be kept busy mentally and physically.
Not all German shepherd mixes will need vigorous exercise per day, but you should have the capacity to take on an active furry friend just in case.
What is a German Shepherd mix?
A German shepherd mix is a breed resulting from the combination of the German shepherd with other popular dog breeds.
These dogs are medium to large in size, and can vary in appearance based on what breeds they inherit traits from.
German shepherd mixes do not always look entirely like the German shepherd, as they could also take after their other dog breed parents.
How should you train a German shepherd mix?
The best way to approach training a German shepherd mix is to provide lots of training sessions focused on positive reinforcement. These pups can be fairly sensitive and eager to please. Thankfully, most GSD mixes are super smart and can master just about any trick with a little time and practice.
***
So there you have it! Some of the best German shepherd mixes around. Which one was your favorite? Have you ever met any of these cuties in real life?
Let us know in the comments below!
70 Comments
December 2, 2022
Love # 9 through 13 especially 13 I like the size. Medium dog
June 18, 2022
i was just browsing along and came upon your blog. just wanted to say good blog and this article really helped me.
September 17, 2021
My Boerboel gave birth to 7male GSD/Boerboel pupps and they are all to adorable. Nevertheless when the pupps were born the Boerboel became agressive towards the GSD which never happened before but instinctively he kept he’s distance. The puppies are now 12weeks old and only now the Boerboel is tollerant and allowing him to play with them.
September 17, 2021
Congratulations on the puppies, Fabian! Sorry to hear that mama seemed a little overprotective at first, but that’s not entirely uncommon.
At any rate, it sounds like everyone is getting along well now.
🙂
September 1, 2021
German Shepherd and Brown Mountain Cur Mix are beautiful. My girl is very playful and protective. She also has a unique voice and loves playing ball.
September 2, 2021
She sounds great, Kaitlin! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
August 22, 2021
Hi Folks ,
It’s my first time or training or getting a dog , I have zero experience but I want to get 2 because of my kids , they log dogs a lot , please I need someone to kindly advise me on the best breeds to get ?
August 23, 2021
Hey there, Abby.
We have the perfect article for you: Best and Worst Breeds for First-Time Owners.
But we would urge you to think carefully about picking up two dogs at once — particularly as you don’t have much dog experience. Adding two dogs to your home is not simply doubling the work of getting one — it can actually lead to a host of other problems, as you may be faced with social problems between the two pooches.
Best of luck!
August 14, 2021
aw
July 27, 2021
I like number 1 and 2
June 18, 2021
Why you left out the Doberman X GSD.
June 18, 2021
Hey, Derick.
We just had to draw the line somewhere! But don’t worry — we update these articles from time to time and we may add a GSD x Doberman when we do!
May 10, 2021
Dear Meg,
I ended up on your site in search of possible breeding mixes with German Shepperd. I have adopted a puppy in Spain, which is a mix of German Shepperd (we think) and …. ???
Would you mind to share your opinion if I can share a picture with you?
Regards
Kris
May 10, 2021
Hey there, Kris.
You’re welcome to share a photo with us, but we probably won’t be able to give you a definitive answer. The only way to know for certain which breeds are in your doggo’s family tree is by performing a dog DNA test.
But we’re happy to take a look!
February 16, 2021
When I look at all the beautiful dogs and puppies it make me happy so please never stop
January 6, 2021
I love the Golden Shepherd because it looks a lot like my dog Brandy. She is a mix between what I like to call a Gercasian Shepherd and a Rhodesian Ridgeback.
January 3, 2021
Thanks for letting me know more about GSD cross breeds
January 4, 2021
Sure thing, Samuel! Thanks for checking out the site.
🙂
December 29, 2020
I intrest original Jarman serfs dog. Pl
December 24, 2020
German Sheppard/Chow. Very beautiful mix. Protective, stubborn, excellent guard dog.
December 5, 2020
Want to adopt a docile obedient companion pup
December 4, 2020
I just got a Golden shepherd female puppy. She is Absolutely adorable, it took 2 weeks she was potty trained, At 3 months she can sit, shake, play fetch and return the ball. She does get separation anxiety when I leave. She hasn’t been destructive at all, she sits and whines at the door. Very smart and loyal. She loves people and kids anyone who will give her attention. Best breed of 2 Awesome dogs. Her mom is a Golden retriever and her dad is a German shepherd.
August 26, 2020
In my opinion the shollie is probably the best German shepherd mix there is. They both are intelligent and loyal dogs.
August 22, 2020
While I do like this most of this and the pics are beautiful, I really wish you wouldn’t encourage people to get wolf dogs. It takes hundreds of years to domesticate a wild species and wolf dogs are dangerous. Maybe they’re illegal for a reason
August 24, 2020
Hey, Colin. Glad you liked the photos.
I don’t think we’re encouraging anyone to get a wolf/dog — just explaining a little about them and sharing a cute photo.
Thanks for reading!
July 15, 2020
I liked much the mixed breed of German and Australian shepherds what nice and strong looking dog. Having it I will also know that my home is secured as both breeds are always alert, energetic and protective.
June 1, 2020
I like numbers 17 and 4 would like either one for a pet
February 24, 2020
We have a new airdale puppy. Would like to have the puppy package,
February 19, 2020
How do you go about finding these designer dogs , I would love to get a Shepard/ poodle mix .
February 19, 2020
Hey, Natalie. The best way is just do a Google search for breeders in your area, or, if you are looking for a specific breed or mix, just search for that.
Best of luck!
February 8, 2020
I had a golden Shepard and he was perfect. We were fortunate to have him for 14.5 years and were devastated when he passed. I want to adopt another but am having difficulty locating golden Shepherd’s for adoption. Any suggestions on finding one.
February 3, 2020
I like the color of the dog for my daughter cause my daughter love some of her German shepard dog
January 27, 2020
I had a 38 pound, German Shepherd/Whippet mix. She was absolutely breath taking with her carmel, black, and white colors. She had even markings, all four legs were evenly white up to the joints, then carmel, and her back was black, like a Shepherd. I wish I could post a picture of her here, to show off what a beautiful dog she was. She was very loyal and extremely protective of me. She was an excellent watch dog, and extremely easy to train. She claimed her territory around other dogs, but none the less, she got used to them, under her terms. She was jealous of other dogs too, and gave me her sad eye look when I loved on another dog. She had such a darling face, that looked like a baby doe. She lived to be 15 years. Rest in peace my Bailey girl. Mommy misses you! I know you are on the rainbow bridge chasing squirrels.
January 23, 2020
Although I love all dogs, why you would be promoting mixed with this Noble Breed.
January 23, 2020
You are missing maatiff and german shepard
January 20, 2020
For the last 11 yrs I’ve shared my life with the most wonderful dog I’ve ever known — he’s a German Shepherd/Alaskan Malamute mix and his funny and gentle personality, coupled with his stunning intelligence and astute awareness have made him absolutely exceptional. I’ve never had a dog take cues from me like he does; he reads me brilliantly. He can be a very intimidating dog but he’s very astute at sizing up a situation. For instance, a strange child will elicit slurpy kisses and a natural herding and protective instinct to guard (even an unknown child). However, no adult he doesn’t know will ever get near me unless I tell him it’s OK. He can be Mary Poppins or Cujo — and it’s natural in him. I’ve taken this dog with me when I teach, visit hospitals and conduct services (I’m a teacher and ordained clergy). He seeks out people who are depressed or anxious. I’ve seen it happen time and again. He just knows who needs him. He’s gentle with smaller animals and even protective. He adores my cats and my friend’s parrot. I found him at a shelter when he was 2 yrs old. He’d been terribly abused but it was love at first sight. He took one look at me and I at him and that was it. He walked out of the shelter stuck to me like glue. He was so attached I decided he should be named either Velcro or Shadow, and since he’s primarily black and has a certain quiet presence I chose Shadow and I could tell he liked it. He is now a beloved member of my extended family, my friends and their families, and my wider community. Except for one cataract he’s always been very healthy (he had cataract surgery and his vision is fully restored). Now at the age of 13 he’s experiencing one bad hip but it rarely slows him down. He can run and jump and generally seems fine. His other joints are excellent. I think this particular mix creates a power, healthy, keenly astute and amazingly loyal, loving and fun companion. Everyone who knows him would agree. Shadow is truly the most exceptional dog I’ve ever had and I’ve always had great dogs.
January 4, 2020
Haw do you trail a strong willed
shepard /dingo
December 31, 2019
I have a German Shepherd puppy but she is mixed and I want to find out what she is mix with she has big ears but she is kinda of short she is 9 months old I would like to know what she is mixed with
December 31, 2019
Hey, Timothy. Check out our article about the Embark Dog DNA Test Kit.
Let us know how it works for you!
December 30, 2019
you forgot about the foxhound German shepherd mix
December 10, 2019
My favorite is a real German shepherd 100 %.
December 9, 2019
Interested in a German Shepherd/Collie or /Lab. Can you advise?
December 6, 2019
I want one.of each please!!!
December 5, 2019
I’m a disabled gentleman looking for a working service dog. Due to my disability my financial situation is not what I would like, but I’m willing to give what I can. I like the wolf Shepherd and the Chow Shepherd. If you can help me I would be extremely grateful even if I was pointed in the right direction. Thank you for your time. Respectfully, Kevin
December 4, 2019
We have a beagle shepherd mix.most loving family dog.very protective of her family.we love her so much beautiful dog.
November 29, 2019
you forgot the best one of them all…
pure bred!
October 25, 2019
I recently acquired a german shepard mix cant tell what he is mixed with is there any other way than a DNA test to tell what he is?
October 27, 2019
Nope – really a DNA test is your only option. Even visual identification is pretty unreliable. We reviewed the Embark dog DNA test here – check it out!
September 27, 2019
Why keep mixing breeds? Too many dog breeders out there and too many unwanted dogs. I wish people would spay and Nueter and I wish breeders had to be licensed and pay taxes and were controlled!!
September 28, 2019
Debbie, I think I went to school with you. Is your last name Downer?
September 18, 2019
You did not mention
German Shepherd and Labrador..I have one, her name is MAXINE, she is all black with stand up ears. She is beautiful.!! very loving and smart.
October 25, 2019
I have a Shepherd/Lab mix as well. Black with 1/2 standing ears. Big and strong. Very smart, loving, and loves to play and swim.
September 16, 2019
You completely missed the Great Pyrenees/German Shepherd breed! As pups they are energetic and playful but do not know their own strength. They are very obedient, very loyal, loves kids and any domestic pet I’ve ever had (and I’ve had alot of them). They are fiercely protective of their family.
August 30, 2019
Need a golden retiver mix dog
July 26, 2019
Any graman shaphard mix with lab shir Pei pappion collie with pic
June 5, 2019
How come no mention of the Shepherd Maltese mix
April 28, 2019
I like to find out more about the breed.
April 22, 2019
They’re all so cute and I’m certain very cuddly. However, I’m over all the shedding and that’s why my next Service Animal could possibly be the Shepadoodle. But you gotta love all of these beauties!!
March 14, 2019
I like the German Shepherd / Saint Bernard mix and the German Sheppard/ Australian Shepherd mix
November 30, 2018
These puppies are beautiful!.
October 24, 2018
Had one loved him got his brother also name Leo
August 20, 2018
Wow that was vary cool love German Shepard’s got one my self
July 21, 2018
Yea a couple of those dogs a just a doodle mix, a normal collie, and a normal corgi. I work with both pure breed dogs and mixes. Cute dogs but don’t use pictures that are not the actual mix.
July 22, 2018
Hey HC – thanks for the corrections! We go off of user-reported photos, so hard to know for sure which pics are legit, since there is no official database for these cross-breeds. We’ll work on updating with more appropriate photos.
April 28, 2020
Any advice on how to find out which breeds are lurking in my German Shepherd mix?
April 28, 2020
Hey, Delia.
Just check out our review of the Embark Dog DNA Test!
🙂
July 5, 2018
i love cute dogs as well.
June 23, 2018
Great doggies
May 15, 2018
You are missing the Doberman Pinscher/German Shepherd mix. The smartest and most loyal dog I have had.
April 21, 2018
I love all the cute doggeis