German Shepherds had the misfortune of becoming a really popular breed in the 50's...probably had a lot to do with Rin-Tin-Tin, a famous German Shep used in movies. Anyway, they got so popular that breeding for brains became secondary ('cause the pups were sought after so just everyone was breeding them), and the breed became really unstable in North America. Lots of attacks, lots of aggression, and really terrible hip dysplasia. The European strains of the breed are still wonderful. Smallish, solid, and SO sweet and smart, but that breed type isn't popular here (everyone wants really BIG sheps), which is unfortunate.

Popularity is the kiss of death for the stability and integrity of any breed in the USA. Right now labradors are getting messed with and miniaturized so that they hardly resemble the hunting dogs they once were. It's a shame, really.