They are not inclined to become immediate friends with strangers. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and obedient, as well as protective of their owners. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and obedient, as well as protective of their owners. East-European Shepherd—A breed based on German Shepherd, specially developed in USSR for military, guarding or guiding. This breed is bigger than German Shepherd, having more straight topline and completely another coat which is more suitable for Siberian or even Arctic conditions.