German shepherds are great dogs to have around.
Yes they are so smart, and of course they originated in Germany.
I read a book once about a young man in LA who trains German shepherds to be guard dogs, but he only gives them orders in German. I wonder if the dogs are sensitive to German more than other languages!
Hmmm. That's really interesting, I've never heard of that. In Britain and Ireland they used to be called an "Alsatian".
Oh wow, I didn't know Alsatians and German shepherds are the same kinds of dog. I think they'd be perfect companions for hiking in Ireland.
to 1899. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds are working dogs developed originally for herding sheep. Since that time however, because of their strength, intelligence, trainability, and obedience, German Shepherds around the world are often the preferred breed for many types of work, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police and military roles, and acting. The German Shepherd is the second-most registered breed by the American Kennel Club and seventh-most registered breed by The Kennel Club in the United
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 overprotective 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. 
Temperament Aggression and biting.