Oktoberfest is a holiday that celebrates all the best parts of German culture! In the midst of munching sausages, imbibing in big steins of beer and strapping on some snappy lederhosen, we wanted to honor our favorite contribution of German culture to the world: Dogs! While German bratwursts are nutritious and their beer delicious, what we love most is the staggering number of impressive dogs that have come from Germany! We’ve picked out some of our favorites in order to highlight this incredible contribution of German culture for the culmination of Oktoberfest.
Great Dane
Despite their name’s direct reference to Denmark, this breed is undeniably German. They were bred for massive size and athleticism in order to hunt wild boar, which comes in handy, especially around Oktoberfest. How else are we supposed to acquire the ingredients for those delicious bratwurst sausages?
American Eskimo Dog
Another misleading name, these pups were originally bred in Germany and their ancestry is the German Spitz dog. However, they have since branched off due to their sustained separation and continued development here in America. Americans initially fell in love with this breed due to their naturally entertaining, performative nature and their whip-smart intelligence. At home in a crowded circus environment, they fit right in during Oktoberfest celebrations!
Boxer
A German concoction with a mixed background of Mastiff and Bulldog ancestry, these pups are the perfect people pleasers. Despite their name invoking the sport of fisticuffs, these happy go lucky pups are always up for a good time. If you’re celebrating Oktoberfest with a Boxer, beware of their tendency to rear up on their hind legs during playtime in order to “box” up their playmates, especially if you’re holding a large glass stein of lager.
Dachshund
The silhouette of the Dachshund denotes a distinctly down to earth dog. Literally low to the ground, Dachshunds were originally bred as hunters of hole dwelling critters. Their name translates from German to mean “Badger Warrior” although their modern nickname of “sausage dog” might be a little more Oktoberfest appropriate. These little sausages are the perfect companion to enjoy the festival of German Culture with! Just don’t get so slushed that you accidentally put them on a bun.
Weimaraner
Streamlined and perfectly balanced, this sporty, athletic breed is a testament to Germany’s exceptional breeding standards. Originally developed as royal hunters, these hounds are at home wherever their humans are. With sweet expressive faces and temperaments these pups will keep you grounded during the extensive festivities.
Doberman Pinscher
Intelligent, obedient and strong willed, the Doberman Pinscher is a German breed not only in origin but in character. Bred as a protective companion by the German tax collector Karl Dobermann in the 1800’s, this loyal breed will make sure you have a safe time celebrating the joyous Oktoberfest.
Schnauzer
Bearded, sturdy and sociable, these companionable pups developed to fill all kinds of roles in the lives of Germans. Schnauzers have a stately snout perfect for sniffing out the best beer and brats around. Grab a toy, standard or giant Schnauzer and go celebrate shnow!
Pomeranian
One of several popular descendants from the ancestral German Spitz, the Pomeranian is one of the most recognizable members of the toy group. With a fluffy little portable pup, if your hands ever get too cold from grasping a great big frosty stein, just pet your Pom Pom pal and warm your hands right up.
Poodle
Although the Poodle’s origin is disputed, a distinct portion of its devoted followers believe that they were originally bred from a class of German water dog. Regal and whip smart these picturesque pooches will bring class and poise to any party!
Rottweiler
Named for the German town Rottweil these lovable lunks are known as Butcher’s dogs due to their early role as protective pawtners to local Butchers. Their ancestry goes back to Roman times as guards and draught animals. Not to be confused with draft animals, which some people tend to become when celebrating Oktoberfest if they drink too much draft beer.
German Shepherd
Perhaps the most recognizable and popular of all German dog breeds, German Shepherds are some serious working dogs. A common choice relied on by police forces, for their intelligence and loyalty, these hard workers can keep boisterous crowds safe during the lengthy Oktoberfest celebrations.
Affenpinscher
Translated from German, the name Affenpinscher means “Ape Dog.” These charming little pups bring the party with a personality way bigger than their size. Originally bred to drive away vermin, they’ll make sure your festivities can continue unimpeded by protecting against any pests looking to join in the fun.
German Shorthaired Pointer
A perfect medium sized, all purpose companion, German Shorthaired Pointers are full of a ceaseless energy. Everyone has that one friend who just doesn’t ever want to stop partying, and you’ll need that kind of energy if you plan on making it through this lengthy festival!
German Wirehaired Pointer
Similar to its shorthaired cousin mentioned above, the German Wirehaired Pointer is better suited to colder climates with a thick wiry coat. It shares many of the same characteristics but perhaps fits in better with Oktoberfest with its mustached appearance and coat. Much of the celebrations take place outside and it’s useful to have a pal who can spend hours outdoors without catching a chill.
Leonberger
Adorning the coat of arms of the German city of Leonberg is a Lion, however you might mistake it as a Leonberger dog. At least that’s what the people breeding the Leonberger would love for you to think. This breed is a representation of German pride with the grace, strength and dignity of a Lion. Celebrating Oktoberfest with a Leonberger by your side is about as German as it gets!
If you’re a dog lover looking to celebrate Oktoberfest with your best fur-rend in style, then check out our Oktoberfest collection. We’ve got all your favorite breeds adorned in adorable Lederhosen ready to join in on the festivities!
