King Shepherd Wiki: Everything You Need to Know

The King Shepherd is a relatively new breed, developed in the late 1990s by Suzanne and Dave Gentry. They aimed to create a larger, more intelligent, and loyal companion dog.

This breed is a cross between a German Shepherd and an Alaskan Malamute, resulting in a sturdy and athletic dog. They are known for their striking appearance, with a thick double coat and a muscular build.

King Shepherds are highly intelligent, ranking 6th in Stanley Coren's book "The Intelligence of Dogs". They are also known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent family pets.

One of the key characteristics of King Shepherds is their strong instinct to herd, which can sometimes be misinterpreted as aggression.

King Shepherds are known for their calm and adaptable personalities, making them a great choice for families with kids. They're generally very gentle with children and other pets.

King Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. A daily walk, playtime, and training sessions are essential.

Their size and strength are notable, with a robust build that often weighs between 90 to 150 pounds. They can reach a height of 25 to 29 inches.

King Shepherds have a dense double coat that provides insulation and protection. Their coat can come in various colors, including sable, black and tan, and solid black.

Their high exercise needs mean they require a lot of space to run around. A large fenced-in outdoor space or a house with a big yard is ideal.

King Shepherds are highly trainable, but they can become destructive in the house when left alone too often. They bond closely with their owners, so it's essential to provide them with attention and interaction.

Here's a quick rundown of King Shepherd traits:

The King Shepherd is a relatively new breed, developed in the 1990s by American breeders Shelley Watts-Cross and David Turkheimer.

They aimed to create a dog with the working ability and protective instinct of the German Shepherd, but larger, with fewer health problems, and a friendlier disposition.

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The breeders incorporated German Shepherds from both America and Europe, as well as Shiloh Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, and Great Pyrenees dogs into the development of the King Shepherd.

The King Shepherd is still considered to be in development, and it's not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

However, it is recognized by several smaller organizations, including the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA), World Wide Kennel Club (WWKC), and Eastern Rare Breed Dog Club (ERBDC).

Here are some of the organizations that recognize the King Shepherd breed:

The King Shepherd is a hybrid of many breeds, including German Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, Great Pyrenees, and even Akita.

The King Shepherd is a medium-maintenance breed that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their thick, weather-resistant coat. Brushing several times a week is essential to remove dead hair and control shedding.

Their thick coat sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes, so daily brushing is necessary to prevent excessive shedding. Regular ear checks and nail trimming are also crucial to prevent infections and damage.

A King Shepherd's teeth need to be cleaned at least three times a week to prevent oral health issues, and their nails should be trimmed monthly to prevent clicking on hard surfaces. With proper care, your King Shepherd will thrive and be a loyal companion.

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The King Shepherd is a medium-care breed, requiring regular grooming and exercise to thrive. They need lots of time, energy, and attention to stay happy and healthy.

Their grooming needs are moderate, with regular brushing and grooming sessions required to prevent matting and tangling of their coat.

King Shepherds are easy to care for, similar to German Shepherds, who have a mild temperament and are easy to train.

They're not the best fit for first-time owners who are looking for a low-maintenance pet, as they require a lot of attention and interaction.

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A King Shepherd's diet should be formulated for a large-sized breed with moderate energy.

To prevent overfeeding and weight gain, stick to a regular feeding schedule and don't leave food out during the day.

Limit your King Shepherd's treats, as they have a tendency to gain weight if they're overfed.

Asking your veterinarian for recommendations about your King Shepherd's diet is crucial, as their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years.

Their individual needs can vary greatly, including weight, energy, and health, so it's best to consult with a professional.

Don't forget to ask your vet about your King Shepherd's diet, as there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

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King Shepherds are very large canines with strong bones and deep chests, standing over two feet high at the shoulder and frequently weighing over a hundred pounds.

Their rectangular outline is due to their slightly longer body than height, with a long, straight or slightly curved tail that's typically carried low.

King Shepherds have a large, well-defined skull with a square shape that narrows as it approaches the eyes and a well-balanced square muzzle with a strong underjaw.

Their almond-shaped eyes are dark brown and have a very keen but composed expression.

King Shepherds can stand between 2.5 feet and 3 feet tall, making them larger than German Shepherds on average.

Males typically weigh between 90 and 150 pounds, while females weigh between 75 to 110 pounds.

Females should be 25 to 27 inches in height at the shoulder, while males should be 27 to 31 inches in height at the shoulder.

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King Shepherds have medium-length coats that are soft to touch and pet, and feel snuggly against your body and hands.

Their coats can be a variety of colors, including red, black, brown, fawn, or sable, and are often a combination of two or more of these colors.

King Shepherds shed often, so regular coat maintenance is necessary to prevent health problems and discomfort.

King Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but like any dog, they can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most common health problems King Shepherds face is Von Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder that can cause prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgeries.

Some other health issues that King Shepherds may experience include Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues. Joint Dysplasia, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, is also a concern, which can result in pain, lameness, and arthritis.

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To ensure your King Shepherd stays healthy, it's essential to maintain regular veterinary checkups. Some key health checks to look out for include:

As you consider bringing a King Shepherd into your family, it's essential to be aware of the potential health problems that can affect this breed. King Shepherds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain issues.

Bloat is a serious concern for King Shepherds, particularly as they age. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and can twist on itself, cutting off blood flow to internal organs. Breeds with deep chests, like King Shepherds, are more susceptible to bloat.

Some common health issues that King Shepherds may face include Von Willebrand's disease, a hereditary bleeding disorder, and hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. These conditions can lead to symptoms like weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues.

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King Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, such as hip dysplasia and joint dysplasia, which can cause pain and arthritis. Eye issues, like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, can also affect this breed, leading to vision impairment or loss.

Here are some common health issues that King Shepherds may face:

Regular veterinary checkups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these health issues. By being aware of the potential problems that King Shepherds may face, you can take steps to ensure your furry friend lives a long and happy life.

Life expectancy has been increasing globally, with people living longer and healthier lives. In the United States, the average life expectancy at birth is 78.7 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This increase in life expectancy can be attributed to improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and living standards. As a result, people are living longer and enjoying more years of healthy, active lives.

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A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also contribute to a longer life expectancy. In fact, studies have shown that individuals who engage in regular physical activity can live up to 3-7 years longer than those who do not.

Genetics also play a role in determining life expectancy, with some families living longer than others due to their inherited traits. However, lifestyle choices and environmental factors can also impact an individual's life expectancy.

The concept of "compression of morbidity" suggests that as people live longer, they experience fewer years of poor health towards the end of their lives. This means that individuals are living longer, healthier lives, and enjoying more years of good health.

King shepherds are a great choice for many dog owners, but it's essential to consider their needs and requirements to ensure a happy and healthy relationship.

King shepherds require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur, which can be time-consuming and expensive. They also need plenty of exercise to burn off their energy, making them a great fit for active lifestyles.

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If you're a new dog owner, King shepherds can be a great choice due to their calm temperament and intelligence, making them easy to train. However, they're not suitable for small living spaces.

Here are some key factors to consider when deciding if a King shepherd is right for you:

If you're thinking of bringing a King Shepherd into your family, it's essential to prepare your home, schedule, and lifestyle for the significant responsibilities that come with owning this energetic breed. King Shepherds require considerable grooming and daily strenuous exercise.

Before adding a King Shepherd to your family, visit your local shelter to meet similar dogs in need of forever homes. This is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need.

If you plan to purchase a King Shepherd puppy, research responsible breeders that provide the litter's family medical history. Your breeder should also allow you to meet the litter's parents and see the conditions in which their dogs are kept.

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King Shepherd puppies typically cost between $1,500 and $2,500, but prices may vary based on pedigree and availability. It's essential to be aware of these costs before making a decision.

To start your search, check out these reputable breeding clubs:

If you're looking for a King Shepherd breeder online, be sure to read reviews, compare prices, and verify quality breeders with shelters.

If you're considering getting a King Shepherd, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons to determine if they're right for you.

King Shepherds are good dogs for more dog owners due to their affordable price and mellow temperament. They can be used as guard dogs, watchdogs, and even as emotional support animals.

Some traits that make King Shepherds great dogs include loyalty, easy trainability, and a calm temperament. They're also great for guarding homes and watching over them.

However, King Shepherds also have some traits you need to consider. They shed frequently, have hip problems later in life, and require regular grooming.

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Here are some factors to consider when deciding if a King Shepherd is right for you:

If you live an active lifestyle and have a home with a yard, a King Shepherd might be a great fit. They need plenty of exercise and space to run around, so a small apartment or urban living might not be suitable.

King Shepherds are social dogs and get along well with other animals, especially if introduced at a young age and given time to socialize. This can take patience and training.

They're generally confident canines, rarely shy or aggressive, and loyal to their families. With proper socialization, they tend to be calm and trustworthy around children.

King Shepherds have a natural protective streak, but their friendly nature and stable temperaments make them suitable for therapy work. They also have a great deal of stamina, strength, and agility, making them well-suited for working as herding and guarding livestock.

As a gentle giant, King Shepherds are patient and sweet with kids, but it's essential to teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise interactions between dogs and young children.

King Shepherds are social dogs that get along well with other animals, including dogs, cats, and smaller pets. However, introducing them to other animals at a younger age and giving them time to socialize is crucial.

King Shepherds are generally confident canines that are rarely shy or aggressive, making them a great breed for families with children. They are loyal and affectionate with their families, but they do have a natural protective streak.

King Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that thrive off of positive reinforcement, making them easy to train with rewards and praise. They are also eager to please their family members, which makes them quick learners.

Introducing King Shepherds to cats requires extra caution due to their size difference. Supervising interactions between the two is essential to prevent any conflicts.

King Shepherds are patient and sweet with children, especially those they've been raised with. However, it's essential to teach children how to approach and touch dogs gently and to always supervise interactions between dogs and young children.

Early socialization is critical for King Shepherds to understand friendly interactions from other animals and humans. Proper socialization can help them develop a social dog with a good nature.

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Barking is a common form of canine communication that serves multiple purposes. It can be a warning sign that your dog feels threatened or senses something unusual.

Dogs bark to alert their owners to potential threats, such as strangers or other animals. They may also bark to express excitement or playfulness.

A study found that dogs bark at a rate of around 10-15 times per minute. This can vary depending on the dog's breed and individual characteristics.

Some dogs are more prone to barking than others, with certain breeds like the Beagle and Basset Hound known for their vocal nature.

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