The Shiloh Shepherd: A Gentle and Loyal Companion

Harry Brook 4 weeks ago 1 4

The Shiloh Shepherd is a remarkable breed known for its gentle and friendly nature. Developed by crossing German Shepherd lines with other breeds, these dogs are intelligent, loyal, and versatile. Let’s explore the key aspects of this magnificent canine.

History

The Shiloh Shepherd was developed in the 1960s by a woman named Tina Barber. She wanted to create a breed that had the looks and intelligence of the German Shepherd, but with a more stable and gentle temperament. To achieve this, she crossed German Shepherds with other breeds such as the Alaskan Malamute and the Canadian White Shepherd.

Barber named her new breed the Shiloh Shepherd, after the Shiloh Wildlife Area in New York where she lived. She focused on breeding dogs that were not only beautiful but also had the ability to excel in various activities such as obedience, herding, and search and rescue.

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Characteristics

The Shiloh Shepherd is a large and powerful dog, with males weighing between 100 and 140 pounds, and females weighing between 80 and 120 pounds. They have a strong and muscular build, with a deep chest and a broad head. Their ears are large and erect, and their eyes are intelligent and expressive.

One of the most distinctive features of the Shiloh Shepherd is its thick double coat, which comes in various colors including black, sable, and tan. This coat provides them with protection from the elements and requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition.

In terms of temperament, the Shiloh Shepherd is known for being gentle, loyal, and protective. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners, making them highly trainable. They are also known for being good with children and other animals, making them excellent family pets.

Basic Information

Aspect	Details
Origin	United States
Size (Male)	28-30 inches (71-76 cm) tall at the shoulder, weighing 100-140 pounds (45-64 kg)
Size (Female)	26-28 inches (66-71 cm) tall at the shoulder, weighing 80-120 pounds (36-54 kg)
Lifespan	9-14 years
Coat	Long, double coat in black and tan, black, sable, or white colors
Temperament	Gentle, calm, intelligent, and loyal
Exercise Needs	Moderate
Training	Requires early and consistent training
Health	Common issues include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems

Physical Appearance

Feature	Description
Facial Structure	Strong and expressive, resembling German Shepherds
Coat	Long, dense, and weather-resistant; comes in various colors
Nose	Black or brown
Eyes	Almond-shaped, medium-sized, and dark
Ears	Erect and triangular, set high on the head
Muzzle	Straight and well-proportioned
Body	Muscular, well-balanced, and sturdy

Quick Facts

Temperament: Known for sensitivity to people’s emotions; excels as a therapy, service, or search and rescue dog.
Reproduction: Requires responsible breeding practices.
Playtime: Enjoys interactive play and mental stimulation.
Intelligence: Highly intelligent and trainable.
Evolutionary Origins: Developed from German Shepherd lines and other breeds.
Genetics: A combination of Alaskan Malamute and German Shepherd Dog.
Breed Group: Not yet recognized by major kennel clubs.

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Games

shiloh shepherd are playing with Girl

Indoor	Outdoor
Hide and Seek	Fetch
Puzzle Toys	Hiking and Trail Running
Obedience Drills	Agility Courses

Special Key Points

Adaptability: Can adapt to apartment living but thrives in a house with a yard.
Senses: Remarkable sense of smell and emotional sensitivity.
Sleep Patterns: Requires sufficient rest for overall well-being.
Loyalty: Devoted and protective of their family.

Health and Caring

The Shiloh Shepherd is a majestic breed known for its gentle temperament and intelligence. Whether you’re considering adopting one or already have a Shiloh Shepherd, understanding their health needs and providing proper care is essential.

Care

Like all dogs, the Shiloh Shepherd requires regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They are an active breed that enjoys activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch. Daily walks and playtime in a securely fenced yard are essential to meet their exercise needs.

In addition to exercise, the Shiloh Shepherd also requires mental stimulation. They are intelligent dogs that thrive on learning new commands and tricks. Training sessions should be positive and reward-based to keep them engaged and motivated.

Grooming is another important aspect of caring for a Shiloh Shepherd. Their thick double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and to remove loose hair. They also need regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and dental care to maintain their overall health.

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shiloh shepherd are caring

Health Issues

Shiloh Shepherds share some health concerns with other large breeds, particularly German Shepherds. These include:

Hip Dysplasia: A common issue causing lameness and pain. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial.
Elbow Dysplasia: Occurs at a rate of 7-8%.
Panosteitis: A painful lameness disorder in young Shilohs.
Degenerative Myelopathy: A progressive neurological disease leading to paralysis.

Dog Food and Diet Requirements

Feed your Shiloh Shepherd high-quality kibble tailored to large breeds.
Avoid over-bathing, as it can strip their coat of natural oils.
Regular dental care is essential for overall health.

Grooming

shiloh shepherd taking Grooming

Shiloh Shepherds have a double coat (dense undercoat and coarser outer coat).
Brush them at least once a week to manage shedding.
Trim nails, clean ears, and maintain skin health.

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Training

shiloh shepherd are taking Training from Girl

Shiloh Shepherds are intelligent and benefit from consistent training.
Socialize them early to help them distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people.

Exercise

These dogs love to run and explore the outdoors.
Regular exercise keeps them healthy and prevents restlessness.

Socialization

Shiloh Shepherds are loyal and protective but less territorial than other Shepherd breeds.
Early socialization helps them adapt to various situations.

Communication

Pay attention to their body language and vocal cues.
They are expressive and responsive to human emotions.

Caretaker

shiloh shepherd wih caretaker

Responsible ownership involves regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and exercise.
Prioritize their well-being and provide a loving home.

Recognizing Shiloh Shepherds

Look for their powerful build, thick mane, and noble expression.
Their unique coloration resembles wolves but without direct genetic ties.

Male vs. Female

Both genders are equally loving and loyal.
Consider individual temperament and personality when choosing a companion.

Conclusion

The Shiloh Shepherd is a breed of dog that combines the beauty and intelligence of the German Shepherd with a gentle and loyal nature. They make excellent family pets and are well-suited for various activities such as obedience, herding, and search and rescue. With proper care and training, the Shiloh Shepherd can be a loving and devoted companion for many years to come.

Frequently asked Questions

How much should a Shiloh Shepherd eat, and what type of diet is recommended?

Feed them high-quality kibble tailored to large breeds.
Avoid over-bathing to maintain their coat’s natural oils.
Dental care is crucial for overall health.

What health issues can affect Shiloh Shepherds?

Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and panosteitis.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for their well-being.

How much exercise does a Shiloh Shepherd need?

Shiloh Shepherds love outdoor activities.
Regular exercise keeps them healthy and prevents restlessness.
Engage them in running, hiking, and other physical challenges to meet their needs.

What is the size and weight of a Shiloh Shepherd?

Shiloh Shepherds stand between 26 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their weight ranges from 80 to 130 pounds.
These gentle giants have a lifespan of approximately 9 to 14 years.

What is the origin of the Shiloh Shepherd?

The Shiloh Shepherd was developed by breeder Tina Barber during the late 1960s to early 1970s in New York, USA.
Barber aimed to create a breed similar to the German Shepherd (GSD) but larger, gentler, and calmer.
Foundation stock included large dogs like the German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute.
The Shiloh Shepherd has since been recognized by the American Herding Breed Association and excels in search and rescue and therapy work.

What does a Shiloh Shepherd look like?

The Shiloh Shepherd closely resembles the GSD but is much larger.
It has a straighter back, deep and full chest, and a long, slightly curvy, plush tail.
The head is domed and broad, with a tapered muzzle and black lips.
Triangular, erect ears and eyes ranging from dark to light brown complete their appearance.
Shiloh Shepherds can have either a smooth coat (short undercoat, coarse top coat) or a plush coat (longer, softer undercoat with feathering on legs and ears).