Pet Dogs World: Commonly regarded as one of the best police and military breeds in the world, the German Shepherd is a strong, athletic and intelligent breed. Known for its loyal, protective, and versatile nature, the German Shepherd is among the most popular dog breeds worldwide, 2nd in the United States and 4th in the United Kingdom. Its popularity is attributed to its heroics in past wars and past stardom in films and comics. The breed comes in a variety of colors, but is most commonly black and tan.