Shiloh Shepherd

The Shiloh Shepherd is a dog breed that is still in the process of development. Tina Barber, a German Shepherd enthusiast from the United States, had been breeding German Shepherds since the 1960s when she decided to revert to the old-style, larger type of Shepherds. Fueled by her passion for these dogs, she dedicated a decade to achieving her vision of the traditional Shepherd, which was larger and had stronger hips to help mitigate the hip dysplasia issues seen in some German Shepherds.

In the 1990s, Barber officially separated her breed from the American Kennel Club and began maintaining a careful registry for the Shiloh Shepherd. The breed’s bloodlines are believed to be derived from both the Alaskan Malamute and the German Shepherd. In 1991, the International Shiloh Shepherd Registry Inc. was incorporated, although multiple registries for the Shiloh Shepherd now exist. Bred to be calmer, larger, and more family-friendly, Shilohs exhibit a more 'wolfish' appearance than either King or German Shepherds.

1. Alaskan Malamute- Source: Pixabay

Barber successfully realized her vision with the Shiloh Shepherd, and we can anticipate further developments within the breed. The success of any new breed often takes time to reveal itself, but with the Shiloh's striking looks and gentle nature, this gentle giant is poised to become a standout in the world of dog breeds.

Shiloh Shepherds are exceptional family companions known for their affectionate and loyal nature. Their versatility allows them to excel in various roles, including service dog, therapy dog, guide dog, and watchdog. These dogs thrive on companionship and love participating in family activities, whether it’s hiking, biking, or playing frisbee.

Their intelligence and trainability make them capable of learning a wide range of tasks, with positive reinforcement being the most effective training method. Shilohs need a job to do, big or small, and when given a sense of purpose, they are eager to please and genuinely happy.

• Potential Challenges

Despite their many positive traits, Shiloh Shepherds do come with certain challenges. They shouldn’t be left alone for long periods, as boredom can lead to feelings of depression and frustration, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing or excessive barking. While they are active and love outdoor adventures, Shilohs also enjoy calm indoor time with their families, whether it’s watching movies or just being close. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential to keep them happy and well-adjusted.

At first glance, the Shiloh Shepherd may appear heavyset, but they are actually a beautifully proportioned breed. Their back is broad, solid, and strong, complemented by well-muscled hips that lead to a long, bushy tail adorned with dense hair that cascades down like a plume. These stunning dogs exhibit a wolf-like appearance, featuring a broad, noble head, strongly defined cheekbones, and a tapered muzzle. Their ears are alert and erect, with fringes along the lower edges. The deep amber eyes convey an alert yet calm expression, and their faces often display black bands or masking, contributing to their striking looks.

• Size

The Shiloh Shepherd is a relatively new dog breed. Female Shiloh Shepherds should stand between 26 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 80 and 100 pounds. Males, on the other hand, should be 28 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 100 and 130 pounds.

• Coat color

Shiloh Shepherds sport coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, silver, gray, red, and pied. These coats often feature a blend of two or more colors, creating a visually appealing appearance. The Shiloh Shepherd's coat comes in two types: smooth and plush. The plush coat features a dense undercoat paired with a medium-length outer coat, giving these dogs a distinctive mane around the neck and shoulders. In contrast, the smooth coat is medium in length, thick, and has a harsh texture to the touch.

1. Brown and black Shiloh Shepherd- Source: Pinterest
2. Fawn and black Shiloh Shepherd- Source: echotheshiloh

There is minimal difference between male and female Shiloh Shepherds. Males tend to be a few inches taller and weigh slightly more, but in terms of personality, both genders are quite similar. It's important to remember that each dog is an individual, so no two Shiloh Shepherds are exactly alike.

An ideal Shiloh Shepherd diet should consist of approximately 3 cups of food per day. This diet should be formulated for a large-sized breed with moderate to high energy. Shiloh Shepherds tend to gain weight if overfed, so it’s important to stick to a regular feeding schedule and avoid leaving food out throughout the day. Limiting treats is also advisable.

Like all dogs, a Shiloh Shepherd's dietary needs will evolve from puppyhood to adulthood and continue to change as they age into their senior years. For tailored dietary recommendations, consult your veterinarian, as there is considerable variation among individual dogs—such as weight, energy, and health—that influences dietary needs.

Shiloh Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions, emphasizing the importance of dedicated care and routine veterinary checkups. Here are some of the more common health concerns seen in Shiloh Shepherds:

• Panosteitis: This condition causes intermittent lameness and bone pain, particularly in young dogs as they go through growth spurts. To help manage discomfort, ensure your dog has proper rest and avoid over-exertion during growth phases, consult your vet for pain management options if needed.
• Megaesophagus: Megaesophagus is a condition where the esophagus enlarges and weakens, making it difficult for food to move to the stomach properly. Feeding your Shiloh Shepherd in an upright position and offering smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce symptoms and improve digestion.
• Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition affecting the hip joints, hip dysplasia can lead to mobility issues and arthritis over time. Regular low-impact exercise, weight management, and a joint-supportive diet can help maintain joint health, and early screening can aid in managing the condition.
• Bloat: Also known as gastric torsion or twisted stomach, bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, which can be life-threatening. Feeding your dog in smaller portions, avoiding vigorous exercise right after meals, and using slow-feeding bowls are steps that may help prevent this condition.
• Perianal Fistula: Painful and chronic sores or infections near the anus, perianal fistulas can be challenging to treat. Regular grooming, good hygiene, and monitoring for any signs of discomfort or swelling can help catch this condition early, and your vet can provide treatment plans if needed.

While these conditions can affect some Shiloh Shepherds, working closely with a veterinarian to monitor your dog’s health and addressing any concerns early can help ensure your pet's well-being and longevity.

Shiloh Shepherds are prone to weight gain, so it’s important to feed them high-quality food on a regular schedule and give them at least 60 minutes of exercise daily to stay fit. They need regular grooming: check their ears daily, trim their nails monthly, and brush their teeth at least three times per week. Your vet can help with proper techniques.

Puppy care requires special attention to protect developing joints; avoid hard surfaces for play until two years old. Shilohs also need daily mental stimulation, so teach them new tricks or provide interactive toys to keep them engaged.

Their double coat sheds seasonally and needs daily brushing during these periods, along with occasional bathing with mild shampoo. Avoid shaving their coat, as it keeps them comfortable in both warm and cold weather.

Shiloh Shepherds thrive indoors despite their rugged coat and are popular in colder regions, like Canada. They love family life and adapt well to various climates, making them great companions for all seasons.

If you’re considering welcoming a Shiloh Shepherd into your home, adoption through rescue organizations is a wonderful way to provide a loving home to a dog in need. Shiloh Shepherd rescues and specific breed organizations often have dogs looking for their forever families, ranging from puppies to older dogs. By adopting, you can help give these gentle giants a second chance while gaining a loyal, affectionate companion.

International Shiloh Shepherd Dog Club

Shiloh Shepherd Rescue & Rehome

The price of a Shiloh Shepherd typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on factors such as breeder reputation, pedigree, and location.

If you’re considering welcoming a Shiloh Shepherd into your home, adoption through rescue organizations is a wonderful way to provide a loving home to a dog in need. Shiloh Shepherd rescues and specific breed organizations often have dogs looking for their forever families, ranging from puppies to older dogs. 

International Shiloh Shepherd Dog Club

Shiloh Shepherd Rescue & Rehome

• Despite their size, they are known for their calm demeanor and enjoy relaxing with their families.
• The breed remains lesser-known compared to others like the German Shepherd, making them a unique choice for dog owners.

The Shiloh Shepherd is ideal for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise, mental stimulation, and a strong companionship bond. They thrive in homes with space to roam and with people who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or running. Their gentle and loyal nature makes them wonderful for households looking for an affectionate, intelligent, and protective companion.