I love dogs - German Shepherds are my favorite!  I own 4!  Are you a dog person?
Yes, I also love dogs. The German Shepherd is a new breed of dog, right? I think they have only been around since 1899.
Really?  I didn't know that!  I wonder who discovered them?  They are so affectionate!
I'm not sure who discovered them, but I know they were bred specifically to herd sheep.
Mine love to try to herd the cats and the kids.  They are so gentle with both, it's amazing. 
They also are easily trained, obedient, and intelligent. Because of this, they are often used for disability assistance and for police work.  
I have seen a lot used as police dogs.  I thought because of their sense of smell.
I'd imagine that was helpful too, especially as the other breeds used are Rottweilers and Belgian Malinois