Shiloh Shepherd: The King of Shepherds
The Shiloh Shepherd is a beautiful breed admired for its beauty, intelligence, and loyalty. It has the elegance of a German Shepherd but a much gentler temperament. These dogs are friendly, devoted, and great companions for families, singles, and even first-time dog owners.
In this guide, we will talk about everything you need to know about Shiloh Shepherds. We will cover their history, size, temperament, care needs, and much more. If you are thinking of bringing one home or just want to learn more, keep reading!
Origin and History
Developed by Tina Barber, a renowned breeder back in the 1970s, the Shiloh Shepherd is actually more like a variation of the German Shepherd, developed for it to be larger as well as sweeter and generally calmer with high intelligence coupled with loyalty as its character aspects.
They have strong working traits, yet on the other side, they still made it family companion-loving friendly dogs.
SIZE AND APPEARANCE
These are big, strong dogs. They vary in height from 26 to 30 inches and weigh between 80 to 140 pounds! The males happen to be bigger than the females.
Their dense double coat varies in several colors such as black, brown, sable, and grey. Their fluffy tail, broad head, and deep, intelligent eyes reveal their fine character.
Temperament and Personality
These are gentle giants. They are loving, intelligent, and eager to please. Unlike other shepherd breeds, they are not overly aggressive or high-strung. Instead, they are calm, affectionate, and very loyal to their families.
They are great with children and other pets. They are protective but not overly dominant. If socialized early, they become very well-mannered and friendly dogs.
Training and Exercise Needs
They are very intelligent and easily trainable. The dogs love learning and respond perfectly to positive reinforcement. Training has to be taken very early for good behavior in them.
They are not so calm and need exercise daily. A long walk, a fetch game, or even some agility training will make them happy and healthy. Left unexercised, the dog can turn bored and restless.
Grooming and Care
Their thick coats need regular combing to avoid matting them and keeping clean. Generally 2-3 times a week is usually suitable. They probably need to get brushed every other day when shed.
They seldom need bathing and only when unavoidable. Their nail should be often trimmed and its ears inspected and cleaned of its infection.
They are generally healthy but prone to hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and gas. Regular vet check-ups and proper nutrition will ensure they lead healthy, happy, long lives.
They have an average life expectancy of around 10–14 years. That is quite good for such a large breed.
Is a Shiloh Shepherd Suitable for You?
If you want a loving, intelligent, and gentle dog, then the Shiloh Shepherd would be a great choice. They are ideal for families, active individuals, and even first-time dog owners.
They do need space to move and exercise, however. If you have the time and dedication to care for a large dog, this breed will reward you with loyalty and love.
What is a Shiloh Shepherd?
The Shiloh Shepherd is a big and smart breed of dogs and was bred in the United States in the 1990s. The breeders wanted to create a dog with the quality of a German Shepherd but a calmer and softer nature. For this, they crossed German Shepherds with Alaskan Malamutes and other breeds. This cross gave them such a massive size, robust build, and such a beautiful thick coat.
Shiloh Shepherds are loyal, intelligent, and protective. They are wonderful family dogs and excellent companions. Although they can be protective, they are not as aggressive as some working-line German Shepherds. This makes them an excellent family dog for people looking for a loving and reliable dog.
Appearance and Size
German Shepherds are smaller compared to other breeds of dogs. The male is about 100 to 140 pounds in weight, and the female weighs about 80 to 120 pounds. They have a well-proportioned muscular body with a double thick coat available in all colors. They look gorgeous because of their big eyes and wolfish appearance.
Temperament and Personality
The greatest thing about Shiloh Shepherds is their temperament. They are so calm, gentle, and intelligent. While most German Shepherds are very energetic and very intense, the Shiloh Shepherds are more laid back. They get along perfectly with children and other pets if socialized correctly.
These dogs are easily trainable and a great pleasure to please. They do well with obedience training, and many people use them as therapy dogs, service dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs. They want to be near their families; otherwise, they can develop separation anxiety if kept away for an extended period of time.
Exercise and Training Needs
Although they are calmer than German Shepherds, Shiloh Shepherds need exercise. Walking and playing time daily with mental stimulation will keep them moving. They are smart dogs that learn new commands. They can shine best under positive and reward-based training.
Health and Care
Generally, Shiloh Shepherds are very healthy, but no other German Shepherd will be exempt from hip dysplasia and bloat. Proper diet and regular exercise combined with regular vet checkups will keep them in tip-top shape.
Their thick coat needs to be brushed frequently to prevent matting and excessive shedding. Traditionally, that should be once a week, but it depends upon the shedding season and the possibility of needing a bit more grooming.
Is a Shiloh Shepherd Suitable for You?
If you want a large, loyal, and intelligent dog that will be perfect with families, you might consider a Shiloh Shepherd. Demand on time, training, and commitment, they give the world in return for unmatched companionship and devotion.
Shiloh Shepherd Size: How Big Do They Get?
The Shiloh Shepherd is a large and powerful breed, known for its impressive size and majestic appearance. If you’re thinking about getting one, it’s important to understand just how big these dogs can grow and what that means for their care.
How Big Do Shiloh Shepherds Get?
Shiloh Shepherds are larger and more muscular than German Shepherds. Adult-sized Shiloh Shepherds stand from 24 to 30 inches at the shoulder, more massive in men than in women, weighing between 90 to 120 pounds for males, and 75 to 100 pounds in females.
This means that due to their size, they have a dominating presence, but don’t be deceived because they are friendly and docile. In fact, this massive build can make the Shiloh Shepherds sweet and loving in their relations with the rest of their family members.
Why Is the Shiloh Shepherd So Big?
Shiloh Shepherds were bred in the 1990s by breeders who wanted a bigger, gentler version of the German Shepherd. They achieved this by mixing German Shepherds with Alaskan Malamutes and other breeds. The goal was to have a dog that would be extremely powerful, highly intelligent, but less aggressive. This selective breeding led to a bigger and more relaxed breed than the old breed of the German Shepherd.
Do Shiloh Shepherds Require Much Space?
Shiloh Shepherds are huge dogs, requiring lots of room. If you stay in an apartment, this breed is definitely not for you. They prosper well in big houses with expansive fenced yards to move around out in the open and play in with all possible exercise.
In contrast, you may still be able to have a Shiloh Shepherd if you don’t have a big yard; it simply depends on you to ensure there’s a regular schedule of walking, play, and mental stimulation daily. They are smart animals that need plenty of exercise for their own health and happiness.
Maintaining an Over-sized Pet
Maintaining an oversized dog like the Shiloh Shepherd requires particular duties. Among some of those responsibilities are
Exercise Needs: Though gentle, they are not German Shepherds. Exercise daily through walking, playtime, and training to keep fit.
Feeding Needs: They are big dogs and consume much food; their diet must, therefore, be of high quality to match size and energy level.
Grooming: Heavy double coat. Needs regular brushing to prevent knotting and heavy shedding.
Health Issues: Just like any other giant breed, Shiloh Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia and bloat. Regular vet check-ups and proper nutrition can prevent such conditions.
Is a Shiloh Shepherd Suitable for You?
If you desire an impressive, big, loving, intelligent dog and you have space, exercise time, and consistency training, then a Shiloh Shepherd will suit your family.
Shiloh Shepherd Puppies: What to Expect
It’s such an exciting thing to bring home a Shiloh Shepherd puppy! Such cute puppies, playful, loving, and intelligent. They seem to inherit all the good stuff from their parents: their sweet disposition and thirst for knowledge. However, it’s not a simple task raising a Shiloh Shepherd puppy. Patience, consistency, and proper training are necessary.
Shiloh Shepherd puppies are playful, energetic, and loving. They love to explore their surroundings and people. As a puppy, they already exhibit the intelligence and loyalty, which makes them easier to train than other breeds. However, they are a bit shy when exposed to new people or unfamiliar places. Socialisation from an early age is important for helping them become confident and well-behaved dogs.
Training Your Shiloh Shepherd Puppy
Shiloh Shepherds are smart and eager to please. This makes training them easier, but that does not mean they do not require direction as well. Here is some important information in training your puppy:
Train Early: Train and socialise your puppy shortly after you welcome your puppy home. The sooner your puppy is exposed to various people, pets, and surroundings, the more assertive they will be.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behaviour using treats, praises, and lots of play. These puppies prefer soft, reward-based training to severe corrections.
Be consistent: Use the same commands, rules, or whatever you plan on using to train your puppy each day. If you allow your puppy to get away with something one day, but you punish it the following day, it gets confused.
Socialisation is Important: Take your puppy on short walks, introduce them to new sounds, and let them meet other dogs and people. Proper socialisation prevents fearfulness and helps them become well-adjusted adults.
Teach where to go to the bathroom: be patient, take them out often, especially right after meals, naps, and sets of behaviors and praise when they go in the right place
Feeding and Care
Shiloh Shepherd puppies are fast growers; therefore, feeding them high quality is a requirement for development. Feed puppy foods that are suited for large-breed puppies. The puppy must be fed to an appropriate weight because more weight than normal would cause unnecessary pressure on its developing joints.
Because they are active, they need plenty of playtime. Simple games like fetch and tug-of-war help burn off energy while strengthening your bond. Avoid, though, high-impact activities like jumping from heights as their joints are still developing.
Grooming Needs
Shiloh Shepherd puppies have very thick fur, so they need to be brushed regularly. Start brushing your puppy so he gets used to it. That way, it will prevent matting and make his coat look healthy. Baths should only be given when absolutely necessary, lest their skin become too dry.
Is a Shiloh Shepherd Puppy Right for You?
Shiloh Shepherds are loving, extremely intelligent, and very protective dogs but must have time and dedication. If ready to invest energy into training and socialization of this breed combined with exercise and mental stimulation, they will surely be great companions.
Smooth Coat Shiloh Shepherd: A Beautiful Coat Type
The Shiloh Shepherd breed is available in two forms: smooth and long hair. Both variants have a coat of quite good thickness, with two layers, but it is smoother which requires lesser grooming. So, in this sense, they are pretty much a good option for a person who would want a not very demanding dog.
What Does Smooth Coat Look Like?
A smooth coat Shiloh Shepherd has a short, dense outer coat and a soft undercoat. It gives them a sleek and clean appearance. The fur is not long or fluffy as in the long-haired breed. However, it still protects them from harsh conditions and cold weather.
Shedding and Grooming Requirements
The smooth coat Shiloh Shepherd sheds moderately all-year-round. They shed much during seasonal transitions, especially spring and fall.
- For their healthy coat:
- Groom them two to three times a week, shaving off the loose hair.
- Use de-shedding tool in the shedding season.
- Bathe only when necessary and avoid drying up their skin.
- Compared with the long-haired Shiloh Shepherd, this version sheds less so brushing takes much less time and effort.
Bathe and Trim
They don’t really need very different care. The same requirement about bathing and trimming applies to the coats. A regular bath can be enough in 4 to 6 weeks to keep this breed fresh and clean. However, over-bathing can result in removing all the natural oils from their coat.
They aren’t prone to haircuts, but they are under regular nail trims. Cutting their nails regularly will help avoid painful nipping.
Why Choose a Smooth Coat Shiloh Shepherd?
- Less grooming compared to the long-haired version.
- Easier to maintain for busy owners.
- Still has a thick coat, offering protection in different weather conditions.
- Long-Haired vs. Smooth Coat Shiloh Shepherd
- The long-haired Shiloh Shepherd appears fluffier, but it needs to be brushed more frequently. The fur is longer, and it is easy to mat and tangle. Long-haired Shiloh Shepherds need to be brushed daily in order to achieve a smooth-looking coat with fewer tangles.
If you require a low maintenance coat, smooth coat is definitely the better alternative.
Shiloh Shepherd Temperament: Friendly and Intelligent
The Shiloh Shepherd is a gentle, friendly, and intelligent breed. They are loyal and calm natures. Whatever big they look, they are loving and affectionate towards the family.
Intelligent and easy to train
Shiloh Shepherds are very smart dogs. They learn commands very well within a short time. They enjoy learning and will definitely obey. Their eagerness to please makes them excellent working dogs. They can excel at obedience work, therapy work, or search and rescue.
Puppies should start with early training. Positive reinforcement is giving rewards and praise. Hard training creates anxiety. They answer in gentle, consistent direction.
Loyal and Protective
Shiloh Shepherds are known to be attached to their owners. They are loyal and protective, thus making them a good watchdog. They do not bark too much but will let you know if something is wrong.
They are protective but not aggressive. Socialised properly, they are friendly and well-mannered in the presence of strangers.
Superb Family Dogs
These are gentle giants. They are patient and loving with children. Their calm nature makes them ideal for families. However, due to their large size, they should always be supervised around small kids.
They can also get along with other pets, including dogs and cats. Socialisation from an early age helps them feel comfortable around different animals.
Adaptable to Different Homes
Shiloh Shepherds can adapt to different living spaces. Whether it is an apartment or a house with a yard, they adapt. However, they do better in larger areas where they have room to run around.
They are not for small apartments unless they get proper exercise every day. A fenced yard is an ideal place where they can safely play and run around.
Exercise Needs
Although calm, they have moderate energy levels. They require at least 60 minutes of exercise a day. Such activities as walking, playing, and mental stimulation help keep them happy.
If they are not exercised enough, they will get bored and restless. This might manifest into some destructive habits like chewing or digging.
Friendly but Shy
Shiloh Shepherds are affectionate towards their family but might be wary of other people. Socialisation can help a lot in allowing the dogs to develop self-confidence and sociability.
Take them to many new people, places, and situations. As they mature into adult dogs, they will not have adjustment issues.
Shiloh Shepherd Dog Breed: A Loyal Companion
The Shiloh Shepherd is a loyal and protective dog. They are friendly yet alert, making them great guard dogs. Their intelligence and gentle nature make them perfect for families, security work, and even therapy roles.
A Protective and Smart Breed
Shiloh Shepherds have strong protective instincts. They are always watchful and alert. While they do not bark unnecessarily, they will warn their owners of any unusual activity.
In addition, these dogs are very smart. They adapt fast and also love learning. Because of this intelligent nature, they perform quite well in obedience, search-and-rescue, and therapy works.
Love with Their Family Members
Shiloh Shepherds love families. They emotionally bond deeply, and their best life is where they spend ample time with owners. They thrive on attention and affection and abhor staying isolated for a considerable period.
They feed on love, mental stimulation, and companionship. Owners should spend quality time with them to build trust and strengthen their bond.
Friendly Yet Reserved
These dogs are friendly with their families but may be reserved around strangers. They are not aggressive, but early socialization is important to help them feel comfortable in different situations.
Introduce them to new people, pets, and places at a young age so they can grow into confident and well-adjusted adults.
Good for Active Families
Shiloh Shepherds need exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They love long walks, playtime, and interactive games. Without enough physical and mental activity, they can become bored or anxious.
They are best suited for families with an active lifestyle. A large yard or open space is ideal for them to roam and play freely.
Excellent Therapy and Service Dogs
Because of their gentle and intelligent nature, Shiloh Shepherds make amazing therapy dogs. They are patient, understanding, and offer comfort to those in need.
They are also used in service work to help people with disabilities or emotional needs. Their calm personality and ability to learn quickly make them ideal for this role.
Easy to Train but Needs Guidance
Shiloh Shepherds are eager to learn. They respond well to positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Harsh training methods are not recommended as they may cause fear or anxiety.
Consistency is the key. Short, fun training sessions help keep them engaged and focused.
King Shepherd: The Similarities with the Shiloh Shepherd
You might have heard of the King Shepherd when learning about Shiloh Shepherds. Though they are similar, they are different breeds.
Both breeds share common ancestry with the German Shepherd. The main difference between the two is that the King Shepherd is generally larger and has more considerable bone structure.
Origins and Development
The Shiloh Shepherd was to be the less aggressive cousin of the German Shepherd with the less aggressive temperament. Later, offshoot of that became the King Shepherd. It was all in the purpose of building the King Shepherd bigger and more muscular.
End
The King Shepherd is bigger compared to the Shiloh Shepherd. They are generally more muscular and have a bigger build. It is because this breed tends to have an elegant and massive build, hence impressive.
Despite Shiloh Shepherd weighing anywhere between 75 to 120 pounds, Kings Shepherd can range in weight as big as between 100 and 150 due to their body and gender, although they have this appearance like a bit larger height and much broad chest of muscle strength.
Personality/Temperament
They essentially possess the same temperaments, both Shiloh Shepherds and King Shepherds alike. Intelligent, loyal, and protective of owners; they become excellent family dogs that indeed happen to be giant gentle dogs. They are great at keeping their masters as close as possible to them, but they also love everyone.
However, since the King Shepherd is larger and stronger, it would require more forceful and regular training and socialisation to ensure that they are friendly to strangers and other pets. They do have a guarding instinct that would be excellent in security but does need to be kept under good control.
Both require constant exercise, though the King Shepherd is too huge and thus demands more space. They require vast open grounds such as yards and open spaces for them.
Even though the Shiloh Shepherd may feel great with simple and moderate activities around the day, the King Shepherd will require increased physical and mental stimulation. Activities such as extended walks, jogging, and games keep them at their best state.
Training and Care
Both breeds are easy to train because they are intelligent. They thrive on positive reinforcement and love working for their owners. However, the King Shepherd may require more stern leadership because it is larger in size and has a natural guarding instinct.
Both breeds require regular grooming. The King Shepherd, because of its thicker coat, may require more brushing than the Shiloh Shepherd.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you love the Shiloh Shepherd but are looking for something bigger and stronger, then maybe the King Shepherd is what you’re looking for. However, be prepared to have a dog that requires a lot of exercise, training, and space.
Shiloh Shepherd Health: How to Care for Your Dog
The Shiloh Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can face some health challenges. Regular care and preventive measures can go a long way in ensuring your dog stays healthy and happy for many years.
Common Health Issues in Shiloh Shepherds
Shiloh Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, which include:
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This is the other very common condition found in larger breeds, including the Shiloh Shepherd. In such a situation, the hip or elbow joint is not formed normally, causing arthritis and pain. Keeping up regular checkup from a veterinarian as well as proper weight maintenance can also reduce the probability of getting it.
Bloat: Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a potentially life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists. Feed your Shiloh Shepherd smaller meals throughout the day and avoid vigorous exercise after meals.
Allergies: Shiloh Shepherds can be prone to allergies, whether it’s environmental allergens or food sensitivities. If your dog exhibits itching, ear infections, or digestive issues, consult with your vet to determine the cause.
How to Avoid Health Issues
To prevent all these issues and keep your Shiloh Shepherd in good health:
Regular veterinary check-ups help detect early symptoms of any kind of health issues and maintain general well-being about your dog’s health.
Provide a high quality, nutrient diet according to his age, weight, and degree of activity in order to help him avoid conditions such as obesity and others.
Exercise: An exercise is very essential for the physical and mental improvement of a dog. Dogs that are active are never fat and therefore cannot suffer the wracks of joint problems.
With proper care and regular vet visits, your Shiloh Shepherd will thrive and enjoy a long, healthy life.
Shiloh Shepherd Care: Grooming and Exercise
Shiloh Shepherds are energetic, active dogs, and they do need a lot of exercise. Proper care that includes grooming and regular activity ensures that they live happy and healthy lives.
Exercise Needs
Shiloh Shepherds are energetic dogs and require daily exercise to burn off excess energy. Regular walks, playtime in the yard, and mental stimulation through training are a must. These dogs love being active, so giving them regular outdoor time is very important for their well-being. If they don’t get enough exercise, they might get bored, which can lead to destructive behaviour like chewing furniture or digging.
Daily Walks: Daily walks of at least 30 to 60 minutes should be provided. Walks can be broken up into shorter walks throughout the day if that is more appropriate for the dog owner.
Playtime: Playtime in a safe, fenced area is excellent exercise. Playing fetch and tug-of-war are fantastic games to help stimulate your Shiloh Shepherd.
Grooming Needs
Shiloh Shepherds are dual-layered, heavy-coated dogs and need to be groomed regularly in order to maintain their appearance and health.
Smooth-Coated Shiloh Shepherds: These dogs have a short, dense coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. A few brushings a week should suffice to keep the coat looking sleek and healthy.
Long-Haired Shiloh Shepherds: These dogs require more grooming. Brushing 3-4 times a week helps to prevent tangles and mats. Long-haired Shiloh Shepherds tend to shed much, so some hair will appear around the house.
In addition to brushing, ensure to:
Trim your Shiloh Shepherd’s nails regularly to prevent discomfort.
- Clean the ears regularly to avoid infection.
- Bathing: Bathe your Shiloh Shepherd only when necessary as over-bathing can dry their skin.
- Shiloh Shepherd Training: An Intelligent and Affectionate Breed
Shiloh Shepherd dogs are quite rewarding to train since they are very intelligent and love to please. They learn quickly, but this breed has a bit of an independent streak; therefore, early training is recommended.
Early Socialization
Shiloh Shepherds are very socialised dogs. Introducing the young puppy to various people, places, and other dogs will make it grow into a good and balanced adult. The dog is unlikely to develop behavioural problems like aggression or fearfulness when exposed to different situations.
Training Tips
Reward good behaviour: Reward your Shiloh Shepherd positively. Reward desired actions with treats, praise, and playtime. This helps them repeat those actions.
Consistency: Ensure that the training sessions are constant, and never get frustrated with your dog. Shiloh Shepherds love mental games, so challenge them with puzzle toys and teach them new tricks.
Socialisation: Socialise your dog with other canines and humans for a well-balanced dog. Puppy classes are a great place to start this.
Behavioral Training
Shiloh Shepherds respond well to obedience training. They can even engage in dog sports such as agility, obedience trials, or search and rescue. However, they do possess a strong independent nature and strong will. Persistence and consistent guidance will help this be overcome.
Shiloh Shepherd in Family Life: Good for All Ages
Shiloh Shepherds are great family dogs. A loving, gentle dog like this will thrive in a household filled with children, adults, and even other pets.
Good for Families with Children
Shiloh Shepherds are gentle giants. Their nature is placid and even-tempered. They make great pets for family homes with any age of child. They usually are very tolerant and love participating in family functions.
Protective Nature
This breed is quite protective of family members and its home. Shiloh Shepherds will be great watchdogs. They will alert you to potential threats around the house, but their protective nature comes with friendly, gentle natures.
Good with Other Pets
Generally, Shiloh Shepherds get along very well with other pets if socialised from a young age. They are quite friendly to other dogs, cats, and small animals in the house. The early socialisation will ensure good relationships with other animals.
Conclusion
The Shiloh Shepherd is a smart, loyal, and stunning dog. He is an asset to any family due to his gentle nature, watchful nature, and aesthetic look. Therefore, the dog is very perfect for any family looking for a devoted loving pet. Its size, coat type, and temperament will always attract you.
If you are interested in getting a Shiloh Shepherd puppy, you must be ready for its exercise, grooming, and training. And with proper care, the Shiloh Shepherd is sure to bring years of joy, love, and protection to your life.