Shiloh Shepherd Adoption: Understanding the Breed and Its Needs

The Shiloh Shepherd is a rare and intelligent breed that requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.

They are a large dog, typically weighing between 80-100 pounds and standing between 24-28 inches tall.

To thrive, Shiloh Shepherds need a dedicated owner who can provide them with a structured routine and plenty of physical activity.

Their high energy levels make them a great fit for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or biking.

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Shiloh Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, known to be one of the smartest breeds, with some owners reporting they can learn hundreds of commands.

Their intelligence, combined with their strong work ethic, makes them excellent working dogs, but also requires consistent training and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Shiloh Shepherds are a medium to large breed, typically weighing between 75-120 pounds and standing between 23-27 inches tall at the shoulder, requiring regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

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The Shiloh Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog, and as such, it's not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but they do have a breed standard.

Females typically range from 26 to 28 inches in height at the shoulder.

Males are usually a bit taller, measuring between 28 to 30 inches in height at the shoulder.

The ideal weight for females is between 80 to 100 pounds, while males should weigh between 100 to 130 pounds.

Keep in mind that many dogs may not fit within these standards, and that's perfectly okay.

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The Golden Retriever is known for its friendly nature, often described as one of the friendliest breeds. They are highly social and love being around people.

Their friendly demeanor makes them a great breed for families with children. They are patient and gentle, which is why they're often used as therapy dogs.

Their intelligence and trainability also contribute to their friendly nature, as they are quick to learn and adapt to new situations. They thrive on interaction and attention from their human family members.

Their friendly behavior is not limited to their human family; they also get along well with other pets in the household. With proper socialization, they can become great companions for other animals.

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As you consider bringing a Shiloh Shepherd into your family, it's essential to be aware of the potential health concerns that may arise.

Shiloh Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain conditions.

Regular veterinary checkups are crucial to monitor and address any specific health concerns in your individual dog.

Shiloh Shepherds can be susceptible to Panosteitis, a condition that causes intermittent lameness and bone pain, primarily affecting young dogs during their growth phase.

Megaesophagus is another condition that can affect Shiloh Shepherds, where the esophagus becomes enlarged and weakened, making it difficult for food to pass into the stomach properly.

Hip Dysplasia, a genetic condition that affects the hip joints, can lead to mobility issues and arthritis.

Bloat, also known as gastric torsion or twisted stomach, is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Perianal Fistula, painful and chronic infections or sores located around the anus, can be challenging to manage.

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To ensure your Shiloh Shepherd's well-being, it's vital to consult with a veterinarian to monitor and address any specific health concerns.

Here are some common health concerns in Shiloh Shepherds:

Adopting a Shiloh Shepherd can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to understand the process and what's involved. The International Shiloh Shepherd Dog Club – Rescue and Rehome (ISSDC) is a reputable organization that helps place Shiloh Shepherds in loving homes.

If you're interested in adopting, you'll need to submit a complete adoption application form, which will be reviewed along with your phone interview, home visit, and reference checks. This thorough process ensures that each dog is placed in an environment suitable for its background, personality, temperament, and needs.

The ISSDC relies on volunteers and breeders to help rescue and rehome Shiloh Shepherds, and they appreciate donations to cover their expenses. The suggested adoption donation is $250, which helps cover the rescue's investment in the dog, including vaccinations, medications, and spaying/neutering.

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If you're considering adopting a Shiloh Shepherd, you're probably aware that many of them end up in shelters and rescue groups due to being purchased without understanding the breed's needs. Some people purchase Shiloh Shepherds without understanding the breed or what goes into raising and caring for such a large, energetic dog.

Rescue groups like the International Shiloh Shepherd Dog Club – Rescue and Rehome (ISSDC) and German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County (GSROC) may be able to help. You can also try contacting Shiloh Shepherd Rescue & Rehome.

The ISSDC relies on volunteers to help rescue, foster, and rehome Shiloh Shepherds in need. They have a network of breeders, members, and volunteers who work together to help these dogs find a loving home.

If you're interested in adopting a Shiloh Shepherd, you'll need to complete an adoption application, which will be reviewed and followed up with a phone interview, home visit (if possible), and reference checks.

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The adoption process can take time, and it's not possible to predict how long it will take for each applicant to receive a dog. The ISSDC's goal is to place each dog in an environment that's suitable for its background, personality, temperament, and needs.

Here are some breed-specific rescues you can try:

The ISSDC asks for an adoption donation to help cover the costs of rescuing and rehoming the Shiloh Shepherds. This donation is typically around $250, which helps to cover the rescue's investment in that particular dog.

Returning home with your new Shiloh Shepherd is an exciting time, but it's essential to remember that they require attention and care.

Shiloh Shepherds are highly social dogs that thrive on interaction with their family, so be prepared to spend quality time with them.

They love to join in on activities like hiking, biking, and playing frisbee, so make sure to include them in your outdoor adventures.

To prevent boredom and depression, give your Shiloh Shepherd a sense of purpose and a job to do.

Positive reinforcement training works best with Shiloh Shepherds, so be patient and consistent with their training.

With regular veterinary checkups, you can detect any health concerns early and develop a care routine that keeps your dog healthy.

Shiloh Shepherds are prone to weight gain, so choose a high-quality food and stick to a feeding schedule.

At least 60 minutes of exercise per day will help keep your Shiloh Shepherd fit and healthy.

Daily ear checks and cleaning can prevent infections, and trimming their nails regularly will prevent clicking on hard surfaces.

Brushing your Shiloh Shepherd's teeth at least three times a week will maintain their oral health.

Providing one mentally challenging task per day will keep your Shiloh Shepherd stimulated and happy.

Teaching them a new trick is a great way to keep them engaged and entertained.

Shiloh Shepherds are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them a great fit for families with children. They're often referred to as "gentle giants" due to their large size and patient demeanor.

One of the best things about Shiloh Shepherds is their loyalty and protectiveness towards their families. They make excellent watchdogs, but they're not aggressive and will get along great with children of all ages.

Shiloh Shepherds are highly intelligent and responsive, which makes them trainable and adaptable to various lifestyles. They excel in obedience, agility, and working roles, making them a versatile breed.

Their beautiful double coat comes in various colors and patterns, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. With moderate exercise needs, Shiloh Shepherds can adapt to various lifestyles, but they still enjoy physical activity.

Here are some key characteristics of Shiloh Shepherds:

Shiloh Shepherds are known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them a great companion for active families.

They typically weigh between 75-120 pounds and stand between 23-27 inches tall at the shoulder.

These dogs are often described as gentle giants, with a calm and patient demeanor that makes them a great fit for families with children.

Exercise is crucial for individual dogs, and it's essential to understand their unique needs. A dog's exercise needs are influenced by their age, breed, and size.

Small breeds, like the Chihuahua, require short, frequent walks to prevent joint damage. They also need mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

Medium breeds, such as the Cocker Spaniel, need daily exercise to maintain their weight and prevent health problems. They require at least 30 minutes of physical activity.

Large breeds, like the Labrador Retriever, require more extensive exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They need at least 60 minutes of physical activity.

Puppies need regular exercise to develop their muscles and bones, but it's essential to avoid overexertion. Puppies need to be exercised in short intervals to prevent joint damage.

Dogs with health conditions, such as arthritis, need gentle exercise to manage their symptoms. They require short, low-impact activities, such as short walks or swimming.

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Feeding your Shiloh Shepherd requires careful consideration, as they have a tendency to gain weight if overfed. Stick to a regular feeding schedule and don't leave food out during the day.

A balanced diet is essential, and their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. Limit their amount of treats to prevent overfeeding.

You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Shiloh Shepherd's diet, as individual dogs can vary greatly in weight, energy, and health.

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 relatively easy to care for, requiring only a good daily brushing to keep their hair out of the house.

Bathing is recommended only as needed with a mild shampoo, as excessive bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

Shiloh Shepherds have a double coat that sheds quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes, so be prepared for extra brushing and a vacuum on hand.

Their double coat also gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather, making them perfect for running and playing in the snow or splashing around in water during the summer.

However, it's essential to avoid clipping their coats, as their double coat helps keep them cool during hot summer months.

Harmony is an active, intelligent, and affectionate girl. She adores people of all ages and has done well with other dogs. Harmony can be a little dominant when playing, but she thrives with routine, structure, patience, and leadership.

A young GSD, Harmony is looking for an active household that will provide her with daily exercise for both her body and her mind. She is a people pleaser and is always ready to try new things. Harmony has been waiting for a family that will cherish her for a lifetime.

Izzy is a name that suits a dog with a lively and energetic personality, just like the Border Collie breed. They're known for being highly intelligent and active, often requiring a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.

Izzy is often associated with the name of a female dog, but it can also be used for a male dog. In fact, a male dog named Izzy can be a great fit for a family with young children, as they tend to be gentle and patient.

Izzy is a name that evokes a sense of playfulness and fun, which is perfect for a dog that loves to run around and play fetch. Whether you have a small or large dog, the name Izzy is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Rahja is a stunning, intelligent, and social girl who thrives with leadership and clear expectations.

She is a shepherd in every way, focused, observant, and quick to pick-up on varied handling styles. As is true of many shepherds, she is eager to please.

Rahja gravitates toward a calm and confident handler, but she can be somewhat anxious in new situations or with new people. This means she needs a household that will provide her with the time and patience needed to adjust to her new home.

Having previously lived in a home, Rahja is crate trained and housebroken, and she understands many of the ins and outs of family living. However, she will still need time to learn the rules, routines, and expectations of her forever family.

Rahja is looking for an active family that will take her on their adventures, give her plenty of play time, and snuggle up for cuddles every day.

Michia is a standout Shiloh Shepherd with exceptional qualities that make her an outstanding representative of her breed. Her winning combination of beauty, intelligence, and loyalty has earned her a special place in the breeding program.

Michia's impressive lineage is a testament to her remarkable qualities. With her remarkable breed characteristics, she is a true gem among Shiloh Shepherds.

Here are some key facts about Michia:

Michia is a true gem among Shiloh Shepherds, and her remarkable lineage makes her a shining example of her breed.