Origin and Development

The Shiloh Shepherd is a breed that originated in New York, United States, in the 1970s and 1980s. It was developed as a variety of the German Shepherd, with the goal of improving upon certain traits observed in modern German Shepherds. The breed's development was initiated by Mary and Dean Koontz, who were looking to enhance the German Shepherd's size, temperament, and health.

This breed was specifically bred for its large size, length of back, temperament, and hip structure. The Shiloh Shepherd has been recognized since 1990 by the American Rare Breed Association, and it was also recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1999.

The development of the Shiloh Shepherd was a response to concerns about behavioral and conformational traits in the German Shepherd breed. This new breed was intended to be a larger, more balanced version of its parent, with a calmer and gentler temperament. The Koontzes aimed to create a dog that could serve as a family companion while also maintaining the working abilities of the German Shepherd.

Breed Standard and Appearance

The Shiloh Shepherd is a large, well-balanced breed with a plush double coat. This breed has been selectively bred to have a calmer, gentler temperament and improved health compared to the traditional German Shepherd. The breed standard emphasizes a symmetrical and robust build.

Adult Shiloh Shepherds typically weigh between 36-45 kg for females and 45-59 kg for males, with males standing at 71-76 cm and females at 66-71 cm tall at the withers. This size is larger than the average German Shepherd, which aligns with the breed's goal of being a larger version of its parent.

Their coat is medium in length, dense, and comes in a variety of colors, most commonly black and tan or black and red, similar to the German Shepherd. However, Shiloh Shepherds can also exhibit solid black, red, or gray coats, as well as combinations of these colors.

Temperament and Personality

The Shiloh Shepherd is known for its calm, gentle, and loyal nature. This breed is highly intelligent and confident, making them easy to train and capable of learning various tasks. Their intelligence is often compared to that of a human child, which can make them both challenging and rewarding to train.

They are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families, often being protective of them. Despite their protective nature, they are generally friendly and get along well with other dogs and pets if properly socialized.

Shiloh Shepherds are also known for their strong work ethic and are often used in roles such as therapy dogs, search and rescue, and police work. Their temperament makes them well-suited for these roles, as they are capable of handling high-stress situations while remaining focused and calm.

Health Considerations

Like all dog breeds, the Shiloh Shepherd can be prone to certain health issues. One such concern is hip dysplasia, which can cause pain, inflammation, and lameness in the affected dogs.

Other potential health issues include degenerative myelopathy, a progressive disease affecting the spinal cord that can lead to weakness and paralysis in the hind legs, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), a degenerative disease of the pancreas that can cause weight loss, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Breed History and Recognition

The Shiloh Shepherd is a direct descendant of the German Shepherd, a breed developed in Germany from 1899 by Max von Stephanitz. This breed gained international recognition after the end of the First World War and has since been used in a variety of roles, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police work, and warfare.

The Shiloh Shepherd was developed to address specific concerns with the German Shepherd breed, such as temperament and conformational issues, and has since been recognized as a distinct breed in its own right. The breed's recognition by the United Kennel Club in 1999 solidified its status as a separate breed.

Since its development, the Shiloh Shepherd has been recognized by other kennel clubs and registries, including the American Rare Breed Association, the American Rare Breed Association of Canada, and the International German Shepherd Dog Club.

Breeder Purpose and Use

The primary purpose of breeding Shiloh Shepherds is for herding, reflecting their strong working instincts and intelligence. However, this breed's gentle temperament and loyalty make them suitable for a variety of roles, including companion dogs and family pets. Their versatility is one of their most appealing traits.

Due to their intelligence and trainability, Shiloh Shepherds can also excel in activities such as obedience, agility, and tracking. They are often seen participating in dog sports and competitions, showcasing their athleticism and mental agility.

Shiloh Shepherds have also been used in therapeutic settings, where their gentle nature and ability to connect with people make them effective therapy dogs. Their presence can provide comfort and support to individuals in various situations, from hospitals to schools.

Buying a Shiloh Shepherd

This documentation should include certifications for hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, among other conditions.

It is also advisable to meet the puppy's parents to assess their temperament and to ensure that the puppy comes from a healthy environment. Responsible breeders will be transparent about their breeding practices and will prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.

Prospective owners should also consider the breed's size and energy level when deciding if a Shiloh Shepherd is the right fit for their lifestyle.