The White Shiloh Shepherd is a rare and majestic breed that's gaining popularity among dog enthusiasts.
They typically weigh between 75-120 pounds and stand between 24-28 inches tall at the shoulder.
This breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature, making them excellent family pets.
White Shiloh Shepherds are generally quiet, but they will bark to alert their family to potential threats.
Their thick double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling, and they shed heavily during shedding season.
They are highly trainable and thrive on mental and physical stimulation, making them a great fit for active families.
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Temperament & Intelligence
The white Shiloh Shepherd is a delightful breed, known for its calm and composed nature. They're not as aggressive as German Shepherds, making them a great choice for families.
Their friendly and playful personalities make them wonderful companions, especially for those with disabilities or anxiety. They're also fantastic pets for many, as they're gentle, affectionate, and confident.
Shiloh Shepherds are highly intelligent, inheriting this trait from their German Shepherd parents. This makes them easy to train and great working dogs.
They're fiercely loyal and devoted to their families, making them exceptionally tolerant of all family members. Early socialization is key to acclimating them to regular home members.
These gentle giants are large and need ample space to run and play. However, they can also thrive in apartment settings with plenty of outside playtime.
Shiloh Shepherds don't like to be left alone for long periods, so they'll be thrilled to do everything with you. They're not suited for owners who are out for hours at a time.
Good Family Dogs?
Shiloh Shepherds make wonderful family dogs, especially for families with children of any age. They are gentle and protective, but it's still essential to teach kids how to play with dogs properly.
These dogs love being around people and dislike being alone, so the more people in your family, the happier they'll be. They thrive on attention and companionship.
Shiloh Shepherds are incredibly family-friendly and live well alongside children or other pets, especially if they've been trained and socialized early on. They're also great for first-time owners, as long as the owners have time to cover their exercise and attention needs.
One thing to keep in mind is that Shiloh Shepherds need a lot of exercise, and they'll do well in an active household. They'll love joining you on hikes or runs, making a great exercise buddy!
Shiloh Shepherds are generally regarded as the nicest of the Shepherd dog breed, as they're very affectionate, smart, and kind. They're also easy to train, but it's crucial to be firm and provide boundaries.
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Getting Along with Other Pets
The Shiloh Shepherd is a breed that can get along with other pets, including dogs, cats, and other animals. They have a calm nature that can even help hyperactive dogs be more relaxed.
Socialization is key, though - an unsocialized pup may have a harder time getting along with others. Shiloh Shepherds should be socialized from an early age to ensure they grow into friendly and well-adjusted adult dogs.
Owning Essentials
Owning a white Shiloh Shepherd requires careful planning and preparation. First, make that first trip to the vet and schedule your dog's vaccinations as soon as possible.
Puppy-proofing your home is essential, especially during the teething phase. This means securing any loose items and blocking off areas you don't want your dog to access.
Signing up for FidoAlert is a great idea, as it provides a free Fido ID and tag in case your dog gets out.
Color
The Shiloh Shepherd comes in a range of colors, including solid and bi-colored varieties.
Their coloring can often resemble that of a German Shepherd, with a back and tan pattern.
They can also be gray and black, golden tan, reddish tan, silver, sable, red brown, dark grey, or black.
Some Shiloh Shepherds may have a white blaze on their chest.
There are 33 different colors recognized by their breed standard.
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Owning Essentials
Owning a Shiloh Shepherd requires some essential care and preparation. You'll need to schedule your dog's vaccinations on your first trip to the vet.
Exercise is crucial for this breed, but the exact amount needed isn't specified in the article. However, it's mentioned that they are adventurers at heart, so they likely need plenty of physical activity to keep them happy and healthy.
Puppy-proofing your home is a must, especially when your Shiloh Shepherd is teething. This means securing any loose items and blocking off areas you don't want your dog to access.
Signing up for FidoAlert is a great idea, especially since Shiloh Shepherds are prone to getting out. This service provides a free Fido ID and tag, giving you peace of mind in case your dog escapes.
With proper care and attention, your Shiloh Shepherd will thrive and become a loving companion.
Cost of Care
Caring for a Shiloh shepherd can be a significant investment, but with proper planning, you can reduce health costs. Shiloh shepherds are relatively healthy dogs.
Medical emergencies can still happen, and the cost of care can range from $1,000 to $5,000. Regular vet visits for preventative care and monitoring can help prevent chronic conditions.
Pet health insurance is a great way to pay a monthly fee for peace of mind and coverage in case of an emergency. Consider funding a pet savings account as a flexible option to support your pet's medical needs.
Shiloh shepherds were officially recognized as a breed in the 1990s, making them excellent daily companions.
Health and Care
Shiloh shepherds are a relatively healthy breed, but like all canines, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular vet checkups are crucial to catch any potential problems early on.
Ear infections and dental issues are common health concerns in Shiloh shepherds, so be sure to keep an eye out for signs of these issues. Regular dental care can help prevent dental problems.
Some specific health issues that can affect Shiloh shepherds include hip dysplasia, bloat, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Bloat can be a medical emergency, so it's essential to know the symptoms and take preventative measures.
Here's a list of potential health issues to watch out for:
By being aware of these potential health issues and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure your white Shiloh shepherd stays healthy and happy.
Lifespan
The Shiloh Shepherd's lifespan is a significant consideration for any potential owner. They have an average life expectancy of between nine to fourteen years.
To put this into perspective, that's a relatively long lifespan for a medium-sized breed. This means you'll have plenty of time to build a strong bond with your Shiloh Shepherd and enjoy many happy years together.
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Caring for Your
Caring for Your Shiloh Shepherd requires attention to their health and well-being. Regular vet checkups are essential to catch any potential issues early on.
One of the first things you'll need to do is schedule your dog's vaccinations, so be sure to make that first trip to the vet. This will help protect your Shiloh Shepherd from serious diseases.
Puppy-proofing your home is also crucial, especially during the teething phase. This means removing any hazardous items and securing loose wires to prevent accidents.
Shiloh Shepherds are prone to ear infections, so regular ear cleaning is a must. You can use a gentle ear cleaner and cotton balls to keep their ears clean and healthy.
Another important aspect of caring for your Shiloh Shepherd is feeding them smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the risk of bloat. This can be a life-saving measure, so it's essential to get it right.
Here are some common health issues that Shiloh Shepherds may face:
Health and Conditions
Shiloh Shepherds are a relatively healthy breed, but like all canines, they can be prone to certain health issues.
Ear infections and dental issues are common problems in Shiloh Shepherds, so regular grooming and veterinary check-ups are essential.
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can cause pain and inflammation in the hip joint, and it's a common issue in large breeds like Shiloh Shepherds.
Bloat is another serious condition that can occur in Shiloh Shepherds, where the stomach fills with air and gas, causing blood pooling in the hind area of the body and shock.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can affect your dog's stomach, causing symptoms like diarrhea or excessive weight loss, and can be treated with antibiotics.
Perianal fistula is a condition that can cause stinky anal ulcers around your dog's anus, and can be treated with immunosuppressives, antibiotics, and supportive methods.
Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can help catch these issues before they become untreatable.
Here are some common health issues in Shiloh Shepherds:
- Ear infections
- Dental issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- Perianal fistula
- Panosteitis
By being aware of these potential health issues, you can take steps to prevent or manage them, and ensure your Shiloh Shepherd lives a happy and healthy life.
Exercise
The white Shiloh Shepherd is an energetic breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least an hour of exercise per day, which can include activities like hiking, agility training, and obedience training.
To avoid overexercising your pup, especially in the first couple of years, it's essential to balance their physical activity with rest and recovery time. This will help prevent joint damage and ensure healthy growth.
One hour of exercise per day is a good starting point, but you can adjust the intensity and duration based on your dog's age, size, and individual needs. For example, puppies under 18 months should stick to the five-minute rule, where you walk them for five minutes per month of age.
Exercise not only keeps your white Shiloh Shepherd physically fit but also mentally stimulated. Activities like agility training and obedience training can help challenge their intelligence and keep them engaged.
Here are some exercise ideas for your white Shiloh Shepherd:
- Long walks
- Hiking
- Agility training
- Obedience training
- Fetch
- Jogging or running
- Skiing or swimming
Remember to keep an eye on the weather, especially during warmer summer months, to prevent overheating. With regular exercise and plenty of rest, your white Shiloh Shepherd will thrive and become a loyal companion.
Grooming and Diet
The white Shiloh Shepherd is a beautiful breed, and with the right care, their coat can shine. You'll need to brush them a few times a week to keep their double coat looking fabulous and reduce shedding.
Feeding them high-quality dog food according to their life stage is crucial, and consider getting them dog food designed for large-breed dogs, especially when they're puppies. This will help them grow as they should and prevent joint problems.
Bathing should be done as necessary, and overbathing can strip their coat of essential oils, drying it out. Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing are all essential for maintaining their health and preventing infections.
Appearance
The Shiloh Shepherd is a large dog, with males weighing between 140 to 160 lbs and females between 100 to 120 lbs.
They can stand quite tall, with males reaching 28 to 30 inches high and females 26 to 28 inches high.
Their head is domed, and they have the distinctive pointy ears of the German Shepherd on top of their head.
The Shiloh Shepherd's coat can be either smooth or plush, with the plush coat being softer and longer, and sometimes giving the appearance of a mane.
Their size and build make them a striking presence, and their coat type can add to their unique appearance.
Grooming
Grooming your Shiloh Shepherd is crucial for their overall health and appearance. Brushing them a few times a week is advisable, regardless of their coat type.
Their double coat requires regular brushing to reduce shedding and keep their coat looking fabulous. A smooth coat sheds more than a plush coat, but both types need regular brushing.
Bathing should only be done as necessary, as overbathing can strip their coat of essential oils. You should bathe them once a month, or as needed, to keep their coat shining.
The soap can cause drying of the skin, so be sure to condition their coat after bathing for an extra layer of protective care. If you notice any signs of redness, drying, or irritation, slow down their bath schedule and consult with your vet.
Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing are essential for maintaining their health and preventing infections. Brushing their teeth regularly can help prevent dental decay and disease.
You'll need to trim their nails regularly, clean their ears once a week, and brush their teeth on a regular basis to keep them healthy. Regular grooming will also help prevent the buildup of loose hairs and keep them looking tidy.
Their thick, layered coat sheds a lot, so be prepared for regular vacuuming, especially during shedding season.
Diet and Nutrition
Your Shiloh Shepherd is a big dog and may need a little more high-quality dog food than average. They do well with a diet rich in lean protein, healthy carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
A diet rich in these nutrients will help your Shiloh thrive. Your vet can be a great resource as you choose which dog food(s) or supplements to add to your dog's routine.
On average, your Shiloh might eat about 3 to 4 cups of dog food daily, spread out between two meals. This amount can vary if your dog is a puppy, senior, or dealing with a medical condition.
To prevent bloat, a life-threatening condition, feed your Shiloh several small meals throughout the day. Avoid giving them food after they've been highly active.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make a Shiloh Shepherd?
The Shiloh Shepherd is a cross between the German Shepherd and the Alaskan Malamute. This unique blend of breeds creates a loyal and intelligent companion.
How rare is a Shiloh Shepherd?
Shiloh Shepherds are an extremely rare breed due to their relatively new development. They are difficult to find outside of reputable breeders.
Sources
- Shiloh (shilohshepherdclub.com)
- Shiloh shepherd: Dog breed characteristics & care (betterpet.com)
- Shiloh Shepherd - Complete Breed Guide (animalcorner.org)
- International Shiloh Shepherd Alliance (ISSA) (shiloh-shepherd.com)
- The Shiloh Shepherd Registry (TSSR) (tssr.info)
- Add'l Appearance Reference (aboutshilohshepherds.com)
- A Visual Tour of Coat Colors (majestic-knights-shilohs.com)
- Dog Breed Designs ~wildeoffice (dogbreeddesigns.com)
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