'Swastika Sweeney': Sydney Sweeney's German Shepherd now called a Nazi pet amid American Eagle controversy

Sydney Sweeney's cherished companion, Sully Bear, has become entangled in the controversy around her American Eagle campaign. The German Shepherd has received online animosity with critics labelling it as a 'Nazi pet'.

In April 2024, the actress introduced her newest addition to the family, a rescue dog with distinctive red-and-black colouring. The canine has since enjoyed a privileged lifestyle, appearing at prestigious events and garnering attention everywhere. The dog attended a Met Gala afterparty and secured a feature on The Sunday Times Style cover. This four-legged companion has established itself as a notable presence, delighting admirers with each appearance.

German roots

Internet critics have connected the German Shepherd breed to the controversy. Terms like "Swastika Sweeney", "a Nazi pet" are circulating across social media platforms. Some individuals have also referred to the dog as a "hyper-white-person choice."

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German Shepherds emerged through selective breeding for intelligence, strength, and fidelity. Their history dates to the late 1800s Germany, when cavalry officer Max von Stephanitz endeavoured to develop the "perfect herding dog." Upon discovering a wolf-like dog at an 1899 show, he purchased and named it Horand von Grafrath, establishing the first registered German Shepherd and initiating the breed.

Initially, these dogs served agricultural purposes, herding sheep, protecting property, and providing reliable assistance. Their intelligence and trainability soon attracted attention from European police and military forces, who employed them for patrol, search-and-rescue, and military operations. German Shepherds served admirably during World Wars I and II as messengers, medical assistants, and reconnaissance dogs.

The breed arrived in America during the early 1900s, achieving recognition particularly through celebrated canine performers like Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart, who transitioned from military service to cinema.

Contemporary German Shepherds maintain their reputation for intelligence, courage, and devotion. They function as working dogs, family guardians, and companions. Their capabilities range from detection work to assistance for the visually impaired, whilst maintaining their position as beloved household pets.

"Sydney Sweeney has great jeans"

Sydney Sweeney's American Eagle advertisement—"Sydney Sweeney has great jeans"—intended as playful wordplay, sparked significant cultural debate. The deliberate play on "jeans" versus "genes" attracted criticism.

Social media response intensified. Critics suggested the campaign celebrated white beauty standards, drawing parallels with Nazi propaganda and 1980s Calvin Klein advertisements featuring Brooke Shields. American Eagle responded, emphasising the campaign focused solely on denim, intended for all consumers. Financially, the controversy benefited the company, increasing stock value significantly. Politically, it became divisive. President Trump endorsed it as the "hottest ad," while certain Republicans interpreted the backlash as excessive political correctness. Sweeney has maintained silence throughout the situation.