Shiloh Shepherd Dog Breed Complete Guide

The Shiloh Shepherd is a unique and intelligent breed that has captured the hearts of many dog enthusiasts. They are a rare breed, developed by breeder Shiloh Shepherd to be a hybrid of German Shepherd and Shetland Sheepdog.

This breed is known for its high energy level, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They thrive on physical and mental challenges, making them a great fit for active families or individuals.

Shiloh Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable, exceling in obedience and agility training. Their intelligence and loyalty make them a popular choice as therapy dogs and service dogs.

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The Shiloh Shepherd is a unique breed with a rich history. It has a lot of genetic diversity, making it a true hybrid breed.

Tina Barber created the Shiloh Shepherd by experimenting with mating German Shepherd Dogs and other large breeds, rather than following a traditional breeding program. This led to the development of a large breed with a mix of characteristics from different breeds.

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The Shiloh Shepherd breed took over 30 years to develop and was only recently formally recognized by the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA). It's also a member of the International Shiloh Shepherd Registry (ISSR) and is currently in consideration for institutional recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Shiloh Shepherds are known as "gentle giants" due to their imposing size and affectionate demeanor. They are deeply loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent watchdogs and reliable companions.

These dogs are intelligent and responsive, making them trainable and adaptable to various roles. They excel in various canine activities, including obedience, agility, and working roles.

Shiloh Shepherds come in various colors and patterns, including black and tan, reddish tan, goldish tan, cream, and silver. They have a beautiful double coat and expressive eyes that convey their emotions.

The Shiloh Shepherd breed was created in New York in the 1970s by a breeder inspired by her grandmother's German Shepherds. She wanted the look of a German Shepherd, but bigger and with better hips that were less likely to suffer from hip dysplasia.

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Shiloh shepherds are one of the largest dog breeds out there, bigger than huskies and German shepherds.

They come in two distinct coat types: smooth and plush. The smooth coat is a thick, medium-length coat with a harsh layer of outer hair.

Shiloh shepherds can weigh between 79 to 180 pounds, with males weighing between 120 to 180 pounds and females weighing between 79 to 120 pounds.

Males typically stand between 28 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder, while females stand around 26 inches tall. However, some dogs may be smaller or larger than average for their breed.

The smooth coat has straight or wavy hair, while the plush coat has a denser undercoat and more hair around the head and neck.

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Shiloh shepherds are one of the largest dog breeds you can find, bigger than huskies and German shepherds, and often mistaken for wolves due to their wolf-like appearance.

The average male Shiloh shepherd weighs between 120 and 180 pounds, which is roughly the size of an average man.

These dogs are also incredibly tall, measuring up to 30 inches at the shoulder.

Female Shiloh shepherds are big too, weighing between 79 and 120 pounds, which is more than the average male German shepherd.

The breed standard for females is 26 to 28 inches in height at the shoulder and 80 to 100 pounds in weight.

Males should be 28 to 30 inches in height at the shoulder and weigh 100 to 130 pounds, according to the breed standard.

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Shiloh shepherds come in two distinct coat types: smooth and plush. The smooth coat is a thick, medium-length coat with a harsh layer of outer hair.

Shiloh shepherds with a smooth coat will also have more hair sticking out from their hind legs. Their hair can be straight or wavy.

The plush coat of the Shiloh shepherd is a bit different, with more hair around the head and neck. The undercoats on plush Shiloh shepherds are also denser than those on smooth Shiloh shepherds.

Their coats are usually a combination of two or more colors, including black, brown, silver, gray, red, and pied.

Shiloh Shepherds come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, silver, gray, red, and pied, often with a combination of two or more colors.

Their coats are medium-length, with a normal density and straight texture, making them relatively easy to care for. A good daily brushing should help keep their hair out of the house.

Shiloh Shepherds have a double coat that sheds quite a bit, especially on a seasonal basis, which requires extra brushing and a reliable vacuum cleaner.

They shed heavily in spring and fall, but their double coat also helps them stay cool in hot summer months and warm in cold winter months.

Their love for running and playing in the snow is a testament to their all-weather coats, making them a popular choice in Canada.

Shiloh Shepherds need to live indoors, where their double coat can thrive, and they should not be clipped as it can disrupt their natural temperature regulation.

A smooth coat is a bit easier to deal with when it comes to grooming, but it sheds more than a plush coat.

Brushing your Shiloh Shepherd a few times a week is advisable to keep their coat looking fabulous and reduce shedding.

Bathing should be done only as necessary, as overbathing can strip their coat of essential oils, drying it out.

Trimming their nails regularly, cleaning their ears once a week, and brushing their teeth on a regular basis are all essential for maintaining their health and preventing infections.

Shiloh Shepherds are highly versatile and can do many jobs, including service, therapy, guide, and watchdog. They're intelligent and trainable, making them capable of learning any task with positive reinforcement.

They love hanging out with their families and doing whatever they're doing, whether it's hiking, biking, or watching movies. They're natural companions and thrive on being part of the family.

Shilohs are very active when they're outdoors, but they're calm and gentle when indoors. They enjoy spending time with their family and will often join in on activities.

These dogs are designed to curb the aggressive tendencies of German Shepherds, making them protective but calm. They're also much easier to handle due to their composed nature and relaxed temperament.

Shilohs are fiercely loyal and devoted to their families, making them exceptionally tolerant of all family members. They're great with children of all ages, but it's best to keep children under five away from them due to their size.

They're not naturally aggressive, but they will defend their families from harm if necessary. Some Shilohs are trained as watchdogs or guard dogs, but this is not typical behavior for the breed.

Shiloh Shepherds are wonderful for families, and they love being around people. They're fabulous with children and will be gentle and protective with kids. The more people in your family, the happier these dogs will be.

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Shiloh Shepherds are incredibly family-friendly and live well alongside children or other fur-babies. This is especially true if they have been trained and socialized early on.

They are good with children of all ages, but it's a good idea to keep children under five away from them because of their size. Otherwise, you shouldn't have any issues with a Shiloh shepherd and your children.

Shiloh shepherds are gentle and kind to children of all ages, and they have protective instincts that protect children or other members of the family from harm. They make wonderful family watchdogs.

They are nice to strangers and can get along well with dogs and other household pets, including cats. Early socialization is an important factor for developing a social dog.

Shiloh shepherds are easy to train at any age, so you shouldn’t have any issues teaching them to behave around animals. They can even get along with hyperactive dogs and help them be a bit more relaxed.

In fact, the more people in your family, the happier these dogs will be. Because they love being around people and dislike being on their own, the larger the family, the better off the dog.

Shiloh shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Regular veterinary checkups are essential to detect any issues early.

To keep your Shiloh shepherd healthy, feed them high-quality food and stick to a feeding schedule. They need at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, which will help keep them fit. Daily brushing and regular nail trimming are also crucial.

Some common health concerns in Shiloh shepherds include Panosteitis, Megaesophagus, Bloat, and Perianal Fistula. Hip dysplasia is another condition to watch out for, especially in larger breeds. Regular veterinary care and monitoring can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Here are some key health and care tips for your Shiloh shepherd:

Shiloh Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health problems. Regular veterinary checkups are essential to detect any issues early on.

Hip dysplasia is a common condition that affects the hip joints, potentially leading to mobility issues and arthritis. It's a genetic condition that can be inherited from their parents.

Elbow dysplasia is another joint-related issue that can cause pain and inflammation in the elbow joint. It's essential to keep an eye out for any signs of joint problems, such as limping or stiffness.

Shiloh Shepherds can also be prone to stomach disorders, including gastrointestinal disease and stomach ulcers. These issues can cause digestive problems and may require veterinary attention.

Heart problems can also affect Shiloh Shepherds, including irregular heartbeat and other cardiovascular disease. Regular checkups can help detect any heart issues early on.

In addition to these health concerns, Shiloh Shepherds can also be prone to eye problems, such as pannus, which can cause partial or full blindness.

Here are some common health problems that Shiloh Shepherds may experience:

It's essential to keep your Shiloh Shepherd's weight in check, as they can be prone to weight gain. A high-quality food and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight.

Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also essential to prevent infections and discomfort. Brushing your Shiloh Shepherd's teeth regularly can help prevent dental issues.

By being aware of these potential health problems and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your Shiloh Shepherd healthy and happy.

Shiloh Shepherds are a large breed of dog, and as such, they require regular exercise to stay healthy. You should aim to give them at least 60 minutes of exercise per day.

Feeding them high-quality food is also crucial. Shiloh Shepherds can be prone to weight gain, so it's essential to stick to a regular feeding schedule and limit their treats.

Regular grooming is also necessary to prevent health issues. Brush their coats daily, trim their nails regularly, and clean their ears weekly. This will help prevent problems like ear infections and dental issues.

Shiloh Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, including Panosteitis, Megaesophagus, Bloat, and Perianal Fistula. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect these conditions early on.

To prevent bloat, feed your Shiloh Shepherd several small meals throughout the day, and avoid giving them food after they've been highly active.

Here are some essential grooming tasks to keep your Shiloh Shepherd healthy:

By following these tips, you can help keep your Shiloh Shepherd happy and healthy.

Shiloh shepherds are one of the easiest dogs to train, thanks to their high intelligence and willingness to please.

You can teach them to do just about anything, including complex tasks, and they'll even pick up elite agility tasks and other unique types of training with ease.

Their high trainability means you don't need a professional to train them, but working with one can help them become guard dogs, hunting dogs, or dogs for any task you need.

Shiloh shepherds are also known for being good service dogs, police dogs, and search and rescue dogs, which is a testament to their intelligence and trainability.

They're used as work dogs and can be trained to guard children or your home, making them one of the most flexible dog breeds out there.

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Shiloh Shepherds are known for their high intelligence, making them one of the easiest breeds to train.

They're so smart that you can teach them to do just about anything, including complex tasks, and they'll pick it up quickly.

Their high trainability means you don't need a professional to train them, but working with one can be beneficial if you want to teach them advanced techniques.

Shiloh Shepherds are used as police dogs, service dogs, and search and rescue dogs, which speaks to their impressive intelligence and adaptability.

They're also known for being good watchdogs, thanks to their size and bark, which can be a great deterrent for anyone with nefarious intentions.

With their high intelligence and willingness to please, Shiloh Shepherds are a dream to train and work with.

Shiloh shepherds are naturally energetic dogs that need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They love to run around, play, and explore the great outdoors.

To prevent restlessness and overweight issues, it's essential to provide them with enough physical activity. A 20-30 minute walk at least two times a day is a great starting point, and you can also take them running for 30 minutes if you don't have time for separate walks.

Shiloh shepherds require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day, which includes long walks, playtime in the home or backyard, and activities like agility and obedience training to keep them mentally stimulated.

Too much exercise, especially during the first couple of years, can harm their joints and growth. Be sure to balance their physical activity with rest, hydration, and food to prevent any potential issues.

Here are some exercise ideas to get you started:

Remember to be mindful of the weather, especially during warmer summer months, and take precautions to prevent overheating due to their thick double coat.

Shiloh shepherds are good with other animals if socialized from a young age.

You should start this training at around three to six months of age for the best results.

Socialized dogs will perform better than unsocialized dogs around new or existing animals.

Shiloh shepherds are easy to train at any age, so you shouldn't have any issues teaching them.

Specific commands can be used to help them behave better around animals, and these commands can also work if you use a Shiloh shepherd for hunting.

Barking is a natural behavior for dogs, and it's essential to understand why they do it. Dogs bark to communicate with their human family and other animals.

A dog's bark can be a warning signal, alerting others to potential threats like strangers or other animals. This is especially true for breeds like German Shepherds, which are naturally protective of their pack.

Some dogs bark due to boredom or excess energy, which can be a sign that they need more physical or mental stimulation. For example, a high-energy breed like a Border Collie may bark if it's not getting enough exercise.

Dogs can also bark in response to noises or sounds, such as sirens or other loud noises. This is because their keen sense of hearing can pick up on sounds that are beyond human range.

In some cases, a dog's bark can be a sign of anxiety or stress, which can be triggered by changes in their environment or routine. For instance, a dog that's recently moved to a new home may bark due to separation anxiety.

Barking can be a learned behavior, with some dogs repeating what they've heard from their human family or other animals. This is why it's essential to model calm behavior around your dog, as they'll pick up on your cues.

If you're considering adopting a Shiloh Shepherd, you might be surprised to learn that many end up in shelters and rescue groups due to their high energy needs and large size.

Shiloh Shepherds require experienced owners who can provide the necessary care and attention, but unfortunately, some people purchase them without understanding these needs. As a result, many Shiloh Shepherds may end up in the care of rescue groups.

If you're looking to adopt a Shiloh Shepherd, here are some breed-specific rescues you can try:

If you're considering adopting a Shiloh Shepherd, it's essential to know about rescue groups that can help you find a new furry friend.

Some people purchase Shiloh Shepherds without understanding the breed or what goes into raising and caring for such a large, energetic dog.

Rescue groups can be a great resource for finding a Shiloh Shepherd in need of a home. However, rescues for Shiloh Shepherds may be hard to come by.

Here are some breed-specific rescues you can try:

Don't be discouraged if it takes some time to find a rescue group that can help you.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) plays a significant role in determining the recognition status of various dog breeds. The AKC does not formally recognize Shiloh shepherds at the time of this publication.

However, it's worth noting that the AKC is a governing body that sets standards for dog breeds, and their recognition can impact the breed's future in the dog community.

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The International Shiloh Shepherd Alliance is a large group of breeders united under the core concepts of education, research, and the promotion of the Shiloh Shepherd breed.

They believe that education is all-important for potential owners and breeders alike. The ISSA offers a training program and mentoring from senior members of the community.

The ISSA's focus on education helps ensure that Shiloh Shepherds are well-cared for and their unique needs are met.

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