Are you considering getting a Shiloh Shepherd breed dog as a pet? This breed is a relatively new addition to the canine world, having been developed in the 1970s by a woman named Tina Barber. Shiloh Shepherds are known for their size, intelligence, and loyalty, making them excellent family pets. They are also known for their gentle nature, which makes them great with children. However, before deciding to bring a Shiloh Shepherd into your home, it is important to understand their unique needs and characteristics. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this breed to help you make an informed decision.
Breed Category: Working
Country of Origin: United States
Average Size:66-76 cm (male), 61-71 cm (female)
Average Weight:36-54 kg (male), 29-41 kg (female)
Average Life Span: 9-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High
History and Origin
The Shiloh Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog that was developed in the United States in the 1970s. The breed was created by Tina Barber, who wanted to develop a dog that was larger and more intelligent than the German Shepherd. She also wanted to create a dog that was healthier and had a better temperament.
To create the Shiloh Shepherd, Barber crossed German Shepherds with Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, and Great Pyrenees. The result was a dog that was larger than the German Shepherd, with a more muscular build and a thicker coat. The Shiloh Shepherd also had a more laid-back temperament than the German Shepherd, making it a great family pet.
The name “Shiloh” comes from the Hebrew word for “peaceful,” which is fitting for a breed that was developed to be a calm and gentle companion. The breed was officially recognized by the International Shiloh Shepherd Registry in 1991, and since then, it has gained a small but dedicated following.
One of the unique features of the Shiloh Shepherd is its size. The breed is larger than the German Shepherd, with males weighing between 100 and 140 pounds and females weighing between 80 and 120 pounds. The Shiloh Shepherd also has a longer lifespan than the German Shepherd, with an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years.
Another unique feature of the Shiloh Shepherd is its coat. The breed has a thick, double coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, sable, and cream. The coat is also water-resistant, which makes the Shiloh Shepherd well-suited for outdoor activities like hiking and swimming.
The Shiloh Shepherd is also known for its intelligence and trainability. The breed is highly trainable and excels in obedience and agility competitions. The Shiloh Shepherd is also a great working dog, and is often used as a search and rescue dog, a therapy dog, and a service dog.
Despite its many positive qualities, the Shiloh Shepherd is still a relatively rare breed. There are only a few hundred Shiloh Shepherds in the world, and they are primarily found in the United States and Canada. However, the breed’s popularity is slowly growing, and more and more people are
Size and Breed Category
The Shiloh Shepherd is a large breed of dog that falls under the category of working dogs. They are known for their impressive size and muscular build, with males typically weighing between 36-54 kg and standing at a height of 76-81 cm at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 29-41 kg and standing at a height of 71-76 cm at the shoulder. Their coat is thick and dense, with a variety of colours including black, tan, and cream.
As a working breed, the Shiloh Shepherd is highly intelligent and has a strong desire to please their owner. They are often used as search and rescue dogs, as well as in law enforcement and as service animals. Despite their size, they are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great family pets. However, due to their large size and high energy levels, they require plenty of exercise and space to run around. They also benefit from early socialisation and training to ensure they develop into well-behaved and obedient dogs.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of the Shiloh Shepherd is typically medium to long in length, with a thick undercoat and a slightly wavy topcoat. The fur is dense and plush, providing excellent insulation against cold weather. The fur on the tail and back of the legs is longer than the rest of the body, giving the dog a majestic appearance. The fur on the head and ears is shorter and softer, with a velvety texture. The fur comes in a variety of colours, including black, cream, red, and sable. Some Shiloh Shepherds have a bi-colour or tri-colour coat, with distinct markings on the face, chest, and legs. The fur is easy to maintain with regular brushing and occasional bathing.
The colour of the Shiloh Shepherd’s fur can vary depending on the individual dog. Some dogs have a solid colour coat, while others have a combination of colours. The most common colours are black, cream, red, and sable. Black Shiloh Shepherds have a solid black coat with no other colours present. Cream Shiloh Shepherds have a light, creamy-coloured coat that may have some white markings. Red Shiloh Shepherds have a reddish-brown coat that may have some black or white markings. Sable Shiloh Shepherds have a coat that is a mix of black, brown, and tan, with a darker colour on the back and a lighter colour on the legs and chest. The colour of the fur can also change as the dog ages, with some dogs developing more white or grey hairs as they get older.
Termperament and Trainability
Shiloh Shepherds are known for their calm and gentle temperament. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners, making them great family pets. They are also very patient with children, making them a popular choice for families with young kids. However, they can be reserved around strangers and may require proper socialization to prevent any aggressive behavior. Shiloh Shepherds are intelligent dogs and are quick learners. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are also known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different living environments. Overall, Shiloh Shepherds make great companions for those who are looking for a loyal and gentle dog.
Trainability is one of the strongest traits of the Shiloh Shepherd. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience training. They are also great candidates for advanced training such as agility and tracking. Shiloh Shepherds are intelligent and have a strong desire to please their owners, making them easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and are known for their eagerness to learn. However, they can be stubborn at times and may require consistent training to prevent any unwanted behavior. Shiloh Shepherds are also known for their strong work ethic and are often used as service dogs. They are great at tasks such as search and rescue, therapy work, and assistance work. Overall, the Shiloh Shepherd is a highly trainable breed that excels in obedience and advanced training.
Known Health Conditions
Shiloh Shepherds are a breed of dog that are known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that Shiloh Shepherds face is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. Shiloh Shepherds are also at risk of developing elbow dysplasia, which is a similar condition affecting the elbow joint. Both of these conditions can be managed with medication and physical therapy, but in severe cases, surgery may be required.
Another health condition that Shiloh Shepherds are prone to is bloat, also known as gastric torsion. This is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply to the organs. Shiloh Shepherds are particularly at risk of developing bloat due to their deep chests. Symptoms of bloat include restlessness, drooling, and a distended abdomen. Immediate veterinary attention is required if bloat is suspected, as it can quickly become fatal. To reduce the risk of bloat, it is recommended to feed Shiloh Shepherds smaller, more frequent meals and to avoid exercise immediately after eating.
Openness to Strangers
Shiloh Shepherds are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is naturally curious and loves to explore their surroundings. When meeting new people, they are quick to approach and greet them with a wagging tail and a friendly lick. Their open and sociable personality makes them great companions for families with children and other pets. Shiloh Shepherds are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, which makes them excellent watchdogs. They are always alert and ready to defend their family and home from any potential threats.
In addition to their friendly nature, Shiloh Shepherds are also highly intelligent and trainable. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This makes them ideal for a variety of activities, including obedience training, agility, and even search and rescue work. Shiloh Shepherds are also known for their calm and gentle demeanor, which makes them great therapy dogs. They are able to provide comfort and support to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Overall, the Shiloh Shepherd is a breed that is well-suited for a variety of roles and environments, thanks to their friendly, intelligent, and adaptable nature.
Playfulness Level
The Shiloh Shepherd is a highly playful breed of dog that loves to engage in various activities. They are known for their energetic and lively nature, which makes them an excellent companion for families with children. These dogs are always up for a game of fetch or a run in the park, and they thrive on physical activity. They are also highly intelligent and enjoy learning new tricks and commands, which makes them an ideal candidate for obedience training. The Shiloh Shepherd’s playful nature is one of their most endearing qualities, and they are sure to bring a smile to the face of anyone who spends time with them.
Despite their playful nature, the Shiloh Shepherd is also a highly loyal and protective breed. They are known for their strong bond with their owners and will go to great lengths to protect them if they feel threatened. This protective instinct makes them an excellent choice for families who want a dog that can provide both companionship and security. However, it is important to note that this protective nature can sometimes lead to aggression towards strangers or other animals, so early socialization and training are essential. Overall, the Shiloh Shepherd’s playful and protective nature makes them a wonderful addition to any family that is willing to provide them with the love and attention they need.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
Shiloh Shepherds are a loyal and affectionate breed, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are known for their gentle nature and patience, which makes them ideal for families with young kids. Shiloh Shepherds are also highly intelligent and easy to train, which means they can be taught to behave well around children and other pets. Additionally, they are active dogs that enjoy playing and going for walks, which can help keep children active and engaged. Overall, Shiloh Shepherds can make wonderful pets for families with children who are looking for a loyal and loving companion.
Exercise Needs
Shiloh Shepherds are highly active dogs that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. These dogs are known for their athleticism and endurance, and they thrive on activities that challenge their physical abilities. A daily exercise routine that includes long walks, runs, or hikes is essential for keeping Shiloh Shepherds healthy and happy. Additionally, these dogs enjoy participating in agility training, obedience classes, and other activities that allow them to use their intelligence and problem-solving skills. Owners should be prepared to devote a significant amount of time and energy to meeting the exercise needs of their Shiloh Shepherd.
Due to their high energy levels, Shiloh Shepherds may become restless and destructive if they do not receive enough exercise. These dogs are not well-suited for apartment living or sedentary lifestyles, and they require ample space to run and play. A large, securely fenced yard is ideal for Shiloh Shepherds, as it allows them to burn off excess energy and engage in natural behaviors like chasing and exploring. Owners should also provide their Shiloh Shepherds with plenty of mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys and interactive games, to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Overall, Shiloh Shepherds are active, intelligent dogs that require a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation to thrive.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
Shiloh Shepherds have been known to coexist peacefully with other pets in the household. They are generally friendly and sociable, and with proper socialization and training, they can learn to get along with cats, rabbits, and other small animals. However, as with any breed, individual temperament and personality can vary, and some Shiloh Shepherds may have a higher prey drive or be less tolerant of other animals. It is important to introduce new pets slowly and carefully, and to supervise interactions until you are confident that everyone is getting along.
Housing Requirements
Shiloh Shepherds require a spacious and comfortable living environment. They need a house with enough space to move around freely and stretch their legs. The ideal house for a Shiloh Shepherd should have a minimum floor area of 30 square meters. The house should also have a high ceiling to accommodate the dog’s height. The house should be well-ventilated to ensure that the dog is comfortable and does not overheat. Additionally, the house should be insulated to keep the dog warm during cold weather. Shiloh Shepherds are active dogs and require a lot of exercise. Therefore, the house should have a large yard where the dog can run around and play.
Shiloh Shepherds require a comfortable sleeping area. The sleeping area should be spacious enough to accommodate the dog’s size. The ideal sleeping area for a Shiloh Shepherd should have a minimum floor area of 6 square meters. The sleeping area should be well-ventilated to ensure that the dog is comfortable and does not overheat. Additionally, the sleeping area should be insulated to keep the dog warm during cold weather. Shiloh Shepherds are social dogs and enjoy the company of their owners. Therefore, the sleeping area should be located in a place where the dog can interact with its owners. The sleeping area should also be located away from noise and distractions to ensure that the dog gets a good night’s sleep.
Summary
Shiloh Shepherds have a reputation for being loyal and affectionate companions. They are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them suitable for families who are willing to invest time and effort into their training. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation, so they are best suited to active households. Overall, Shiloh Shepherds can make great pets for those who are committed to providing them with the care and attention they need.
Shiloh Shepherd Dog FAQS
Yes, Shiloh Shepherds are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.
Yes, Shiloh Shepherds are protective of their family and make excellent guard dogs.
Yes, Shiloh Shepherds are known to be great with children and make excellent family pets.
Shiloh Shepherds can get along with other pets if socialized properly from a young age.
Shiloh Shepherds can be prone to hip dysplasia and bloat, so it’s important to keep them at a healthy weight and monitor their diet.
Yes, Shiloh Shepherds are heavy shedders and require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
Shiloh Shepherds have a lifespan of 9-14 years.
Shiloh Shepherds are active dogs and require at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day.
A Shiloh Shepherd can grow up to 76 cm in height.
The average weight of a Shiloh Shepherd is between 36-54 kg.
