The King Shepherd is a large breed of dog, typically standing between 26-31 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 85-115 pounds.
Their size is a result of careful breeding to create a dog that is both majestic and intelligent.
King Shepherds are a cross between a German Shepherd and a Great Pyrenees, which explains their impressive stature.
Their size is not just a matter of aesthetics, it also plays a crucial role in their ability to perform their original purpose as a working dog.
King Shepherd Size and Health
The King Shepherd is a large breed of dog, and as such, they are prone to certain health issues. They generally weigh between 75 to 110 pounds.
Their size makes them vulnerable to issues like bloat and hip dysplasia, which are inescapable facts for large dogs. Bloat, hip and joint dysplasia, and Von Willebrand's disease are all potential health concerns for King Shepherds.
Here are some specific health issues that King Shepherds may face:
- Allergies
- Hypothyroidism
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Bloat
- Hip and joint dysplasia
- Von Willebrand’s disease
Health and Conditions
King Shepherds are generally healthier than German Shepherds, but they're not immune to health issues.
As a larger breed, King Shepherds are prone to bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.
Hip and joint dysplasia are also common in King Shepherds, due to the extra stress their bones and joints endure as a result of their size.
Allergies can affect King Shepherds, causing skin issues and digestive problems.
Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, can also occur in King Shepherds.
Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord, is another potential health issue for King Shepherds.
Von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder, can also be a concern for King Shepherd owners.
Here are some potential health issues to watch out for in King Shepherds:
- Bloat
- Hip and joint dysplasia
- Von Willebrand's disease
Nutritional Needs
King Shepherds are large dogs and they eat a lot. You can expect to feed your King Shepherd between three and four cups of dog food per day.
A high quality dry dog food is a great place to start, and choose a kibble that’s formulated for larger dogs and has a high protein content.
Consult your veterinarian for a personalized feeding plan, as they can also be a great supplier of quality dog food and treats.
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Appearance and Breed
The King Shepherd's size is quite impressive, measuring anywhere from 25 to 31 inches in height for males and 25 to 27 inches for females.
These dogs are large and strong, with males weighing in at 90 to 150 pounds on average, and females ranging from 75 to 110 pounds.
Their imposing presence is due in part to their broad shoulders, which can be as high as two feet from the ground.
Both males and females have a similar height range, with males averaging 26-29 inches and females averaging 25-27 inches.
Their heads are large and boxy, with a progressive narrowing to the muzzle, giving them a distinctive appearance.
The King Shepherd's coat is a key part of its identity, with coat colors including tan, brown, sable, rusty red, white, silver, or black.
Their double coats are medium in length and tend to be of a medium to slightly thick density, with some dogs having straight coats and others having curly coats.
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King Shepherd Characteristics
The King Shepherd is a large dog, measuring between 27 and 31 inches in height for males and 25 and 27 inches for females.
Their weight range is quite substantial, typically falling between 75 to 110 pounds.
These dogs have a unique coat that's darker and longer than their German Shepherd cousins.
Their intelligence is undeniable, making them a great fit for police work and search-and-rescue missions.
King Shepherds are known for their friendly, loyal, and protective nature, which makes them a great addition to many families.
Their calm temperament is a notable characteristic, setting them apart from some other breeds and making them a great choice for families with children.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much bigger is a king shepherd than a German Shepherd?
King shepherds are generally larger than German shepherds, standing taller and weighing more, typically between 90-150 pounds. On average, they are about as tall as an average human female.
What is the largest breed of shepherd?
The Caucasian Shepherd is a large breed that can grow up to 30 inches tall, making it one of the biggest shepherd breeds. Known for its protective instincts, this massive dog was originally bred to safeguard livestock in the rugged Caucasus mountain region.
How much should a king shepherd weigh?
A King Shepherd typically weighs between 100-150 pounds for males and 80-120 pounds for females. Knowing the ideal weight range can help you understand the breed's overall health and size.
Is a king shepherd bigger than a wolf?
King shepherds are slightly smaller and lighter than wolves, but still a large breed. Despite their size, they are known for being friendly and calm companions.
What is the shoulder height of a king shepherd?
For King Shepherds, the minimum shoulder height is 25 inches for females and 27 inches for males, with ideal heights of 27 inches or more preferred for females and 29 inches or more for males.
Sources
- King Shepherd Club of America (kscofa.com)
- American King Shepherd Club International (kingshepherds.net)
- King Shepherd Dog Breed Information and Pictures (dogbreedinfo.com)
- King Shepherd Dog Breed Guide - Dogster (dogster.com)
- What is a King Shepherd? - PetMojo (petmojo.com)
- King Shepherd - Complete Guide & Top Facts (animalcorner.org)
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