The German Shepherd orgin happens to be given away in its name, Germany. Brought up in 1899, the breed was not recognized until 1908. They are herding dogs used for rounding up livestock and protecting them from threats. These dogs are also the most popular police breed and make excellent guard dogs.
http://www.akc.org/breeds/german_shepherd_dog/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Shepherd_Dog
http://puppydogweb.com/caninebreeds/grmanshpd.htm