<Li> <P> A young German Shepherd tilting her head to try to better understand her owner's command </P> </Li> <P> A young German Shepherd tilting her head to try to better understand her owner's command </P> <P> German Shepherds were bred specifically for their intelligence, a trait for which they are now famous . In the book The Intelligence of Dogs, author Stanley Coren ranked the breed third for intelligence, behind Border Collies and Poodles . He found that they had the ability to learn simple tasks after only five repetitions and obeyed the first command given 95% of the time . Coupled with their strength, this trait makes the breed desirable as police, guard and search and rescue dogs, as they are able to quickly learn various tasks and interpret instructions better than other breeds . </P> <P> German Shepherds are moderately active dogs and are described in breed standards as self - assured . The breed is marked by a willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose . They are curious, which makes them excellent guard dogs and suitable for search missions . They can become over-protective of their family and territory, especially if not socialized correctly . They are not inclined to become immediate friends with strangers . German Shepherds are highly intelligent and obedient, as well as being protective of their owners . </P>

How many german shepherds are in the world