Shiloh Shepherd Puppies: A Comprehensive Owner's Guide

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Tombstones near in Shiloh United Methodist Church in Dooly County, Georgia, USA
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Welcome to the world of Shiloh Shepherd puppies! These gentle giants are a cross between a German Shepherd and an Alaskan Malamute, and they're known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature.

Shiloh Shepherds are a relatively new breed, developed to combine the best qualities of both parent breeds. They typically weigh between 75-120 pounds and stand between 24-28 inches tall at the shoulder.

Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, especially during shedding season.

Shiloh Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable, making them a popular choice for families and first-time dog owners. They thrive on structure and clear boundaries, so early socialization and obedience training are crucial for their development.

Their calm and gentle nature makes them an excellent choice for families with children or for people who want a low-maintenance companion.

Physical Characteristics

The Shiloh Shepherd is a large breed of dog, with males typically standing between 28 to 30 inches high.

Females are slightly smaller, standing between 26 to 28 inches high.

Males can weigh anywhere between 100 to 130 pounds, while females typically weigh between 80 to 100 pounds.

Size

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The Shiloh Shepherd is a large breed of dog, with males typically standing between 28 to 30 inches high.

Males can weigh anywhere from 100 to 130 pounds, while females weigh between 80 to 100 pounds.

Females should be 26 to 28 inches in height at the shoulder, which is slightly smaller than their male counterparts.

Many dogs may not fit within these standards, and can be smaller or larger than average for their breed.

Appearance

The Shiloh Shepherd is a large dog, with males weighing between 140 to 160 lbs and females weighing between 100 to 120 lbs.

They have a straighter back compared to the German Shepherd, but still retain the pointy ears on top of their head. Their head is domed.

Males stand between 28 to 30 inches high, while females are slightly smaller, standing between 26 to 28 inches high.

Health and Care

Shiloh Shepherd puppies are generally healthy, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial to detect any potential problems early on.

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Shiloh Shepherds can be susceptible to weight gain, so it's essential to stick to a regular feeding schedule and choose a high-quality food. A minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day will help keep them fit.

To maintain their oral health, brush their teeth at least three times a week, and trim their nails before they get too long. Regular ear cleaning and dental care will prevent infections and keep them comfortable.

Some common health concerns in Shiloh Shepherds include Panosteitis, Megaesophagus, Hip Dysplasia, Bloat, and Perianal Fistula. Consult with a veterinarian to monitor and address any specific health concerns in your individual dog.

Here are some key health concerns to be aware of:

  • Panosteitis: intermittent lameness and bone pain, primarily affecting young dogs during their growth phase
  • Megaesophagus: enlarged and weakened esophagus, making it difficult for food to pass into the stomach properly
  • Hip Dysplasia: genetic condition affecting the hip joints, potentially leading to mobility issues and arthritis
  • Bloat: life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, requiring immediate veterinary attention
  • Perianal Fistula: painful, chronic infections or sores located around the anus, which can be challenging to manage

Michia/Tbd

Michia/Tbd is a crucial aspect of health and care, especially when it comes to managing chronic conditions.

In the context of health and care, Michia/Tbd is often used as a term to describe the need for ongoing medical attention, as seen in the case of individuals with conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

According to research, people with chronic conditions require an average of 13 doctor visits per year, highlighting the importance of Michia/Tbd in their care.

Health and Care

Puppy of German Shepherd in Black and White
Credit: pexels.com, Puppy of German Shepherd in Black and White

Regular veterinary checkups are crucial to detect any health concerns early, especially in Shiloh Shepherds. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.

Shiloh Shepherds are prone to weight gain, so choose a high-quality food and stick to a feeding schedule. Make sure your dog gets at least 60 minutes of exercise per day.

Daily ear checks are essential to prevent infections and pests. Clean your dog's ears as recommended by your vet, and trim their nails before they get too long.

Maintaining oral health is a challenge, but brushing your dog's teeth three times a week can make a big difference. Your veterinarian can instruct you on how to brush your dog's teeth properly.

Shiloh Shepherds need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and restlessness. Give them one mentally challenging task per day, such as teaching a new trick.

Here are some common health concerns in Shiloh Shepherds:

  • Panosteitis: intermittent lameness and bone pain, primarily affecting young dogs during their growth phase.
  • Megaesophagus: an enlarged and weakened esophagus, making it difficult for food to pass into the stomach properly.
  • Hip Dysplasia: a genetic condition affecting the hip joints, potentially leading to mobility issues and arthritis.
  • Bloat: a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
  • Perianal Fistula: painful, chronic infections or sores located around the anus, which can be challenging to manage.

Regular checkups and monitoring can help catch these issues early, and reputable breeders can reduce the risk of inherited health problems.

Feeding

German Shepherd Puppy Lying Down on Tree Trunk
Credit: pexels.com, German Shepherd Puppy Lying Down on Tree Trunk

Shiloh Shepherds have a tendency to gain weight if they're overfed, so stick to a regular feeding schedule and don't leave food out during the day.

An ideal Shiloh Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large-sized breed with moderate to high energy.

Limit their amount of treats, as they can add up quickly and contribute to weight gain.

You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Shiloh Shepherd's diet, as their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and beyond.

Shiloh Shepherds need at least 60 minutes of exercise per day to help keep them fit and prevent weight gain.

Choose a high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs and stick to it, rather than switching between different types of food.

Temperament and Training

The Shiloh Shepherd is a loyal and courageous pet that makes an excellent companion to many.

They're highly intelligent, inheriting this trait from their German Shepherd parents, which makes them easy to train. This intelligence also means they don't like to be left alone and can become bored, depressed, and frustrated if left for long periods.

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Shiloh Shepherds respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and reward-based training, which includes verbal praise and treats. Ignoring negative behavior and praising positive behavior helps them learn what's desirable.

If you're considering bringing a Shiloh Shepherd into your home, remember that they thrive on having a job to do and a sense of purpose. Give them a task, and they'll be very happy!

Temperament

The Shiloh Shepherd's temperament is truly one of a kind. They are known to be loyal and courageous, making them an excellent companion to many families.

These dogs are highly intelligent, inheriting this trait from their German Shepherd parents, which makes them easy to train. They are also great working dogs due to their intelligence and confident nature.

Shiloh Shepherds are more laid back than German Shepherds, being docile and gentle, making them a great fit for families with children. They love hanging out with their families and doing what they're doing.

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They thrive on having a sense of purpose and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train them, as they respond well to rewards and praise.

Shilohs are very active outdoors, but calm and relaxed indoors, making them a great fit for families who enjoy spending time together. They don't like to be left alone for long periods and can become bored, depressed, and frustrated if they don't have enough attention.

Socialization is key to raising a well-rounded Shiloh Shepherd. Introduce them to new sights, sounds, places, smells, people, and animals from a young age, in a safe and controlled way.

Trainability

The Shiloh Shepherd is a very intelligent dog and is therefore very easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and reward-based training, which includes verbal praise and treats.

To train your Shiloh Shepherd effectively, it's essential to ignore negative behavior and praise positive behavior so they learn what's more desirable. This approach will help them understand what's expected of them.

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The Shiloh Shepherd loves to work and needs to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will be very happy.

Positive reinforcement works best when it comes to training a Shiloh Shepherd. They thrive on rewards and praise, making training a fun and rewarding experience for both of you.

The Shiloh Shepherd is highly trainable, which makes them capable of learning any task. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can teach them to do just about anything.

Exercise

Exercise is essential for Shiloh Shepherds, and they need at least 60 minutes of walking every day to stay happy and healthy.

If you don't provide them with enough exercise, they can become obese and very destructive. This is because they have high energy levels and need to burn it off.

You can follow the five-minute rule to determine how much exercise your puppy needs: five minutes of walking per month of age. For example, if your four-month-old puppy needs 20 minutes of walking.

German Shepherd Puppy Sleeping on Brown Wicker Basket Close-up Photo
Credit: pexels.com, German Shepherd Puppy Sleeping on Brown Wicker Basket Close-up Photo

As your Shiloh Shepherd grows, so will their exercise needs. They'll love to participate in dog sports like agility training, obedience training, and flyball, which are great ways to challenge them and strengthen your bond.

After a walk, they'll happily curl up next to you and relax, so you'll get to enjoy some quiet time together too.

Family and Lifestyle

The Shiloh Shepherd is an excellent companion dog that fits in well with almost every family, especially those with children, as they are extremely loyal and friendly, and gentle with kids.

Their intelligence and working nature make them easy to train, so the whole family can get involved. They are also great with other animals and dogs in the home if socialization takes place.

Shiloh Shepherds require a lot of exercise, which is not something you can skip. They need daily time for exercising and will do well in an active household.

They'll love joining you on hikes or runs, making a great exercise buddy. If you don't exercise them enough, they can become destructive and exhibit unwanted behaviors.

Grooming

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Grooming your Shiloh Shepherd is essential to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Their double coat sheds quite a bit, so be prepared for regular vacuuming, especially during seasonal changes. You'll want to have a good vacuum cleaner on hand to keep up with the shedding.

Daily brushing is a must to prevent loose hairs from getting everywhere, and it's also a great way to bond with your Shiloh Shepherd. One good brushing a day should do the trick.

Bathing is only recommended as needed, with a mild shampoo, to avoid stripping their coat of its natural oils. Over-bathing can lead to dry, itchy skin.

Their double coat helps keep them cool in hot summer months, but it's not a good idea to clip it. This means they'll need plenty of opportunities to run and play in the snow or splash around in water to keep them happy and healthy.

Regular eye and ear checks are crucial to prevent infections, and cleaning them when needed will keep them healthy. Don't forget to brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental decay and disease.

Comparison and Cost

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The Shiloh Shepherd is a relatively rare breed, which can make finding a reputable breeder a challenge. They can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000, depending on factors like bloodlines and location.

You'll want to consider the costs of owning a Shiloh Shepherd, including food, vet bills, and supplies. This can add up to around $1,000 to $1,500 per year.

Their size and energy level mean they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Plan on spending at least 30 minutes a day on physical activity and training.

The average lifespan of a Shiloh Shepherd is 10-12 years, which is relatively long compared to some other breeds. With proper care, they can live a happy and healthy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make a Shiloh Shepherd?

A Shiloh Shepherd is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Malamute/White Shepherd, bred for their gentle and stable temperaments. This unique combination makes the Shiloh Shepherd a distinct breed with a rich history.

Is a Shiloh Shepherd rare?

Yes, the Shiloh Shepherd is a rare breed, recognized as such by the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) in 1991. Its rarity is due to its limited origins and selective breeding.

What is the average cost of a Shiloh Shepherd?

The average cost of a Shiloh Shepherd is between $2000-$4000 USD, depending on the breeder and quality of the dog.

Are Shiloh Shepherds good pets?

Shiloh Shepherds are excellent family pets due to their friendly, outgoing personalities and adaptability to living with children and other pets. However, they require regular social interaction and may not thrive in homes with long periods of solitude

What is the difference between a German shepherd and a Shiloh Shepherd?

Shiloh Shepherds are larger than German Shepherds but generally easier to care for, requiring less grooming and exercise. They also tend to be more friendly and less protective

Bertha Hauck

Senior Writer

Bertha Hauck is a writer with a passion for sharing knowledge about canine companions. With a focus on Dutch Shepherds and other breeds originating in the Netherlands, Bertha's articles provide in-depth information for dog enthusiasts. Her expertise in herding dogs and FCI breeds has earned her a reputation as a trusted authority in the field.

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