Description. The Shiloh Shepherd is a heavy looking dog, with a broad back, that is strong and solid; this is a substantial dog. They have a dome shape to their head, but it is in good proportion to the body of the dog. Their head is about as long as it is wide, and has a gentle stop. Their muzzle tapers gently from the well developed cheek bones. For show purposes the muzzle should be mainly black and the length should be the same as that of their forehead. The Shiloh Shepherd thighs are very muscular both in the upper and lower parts. The Shiloh Shepherd comes in 2 coat varieties, being smooth or lush. Both coat types are medium in length with dense undercoat. The main difference is the smooth coat is harsh to the touch, whereas the plush coat is smoother with a mane appearance from the neck to the chest.

With a height of 29-30 inches and the male dog weighing 100-130 pounds whilst the female is a little lighter at 80-100 pounds. The Shiloh Shepherd is not a small dog.

History. A German shepherd breeder, from the USA, who had been breeding German Shepherds since the 1960s, started the Shiloh Shepherd breed. This person decided they wanted to breed an old fashioned style of shepherd dog, as they were larger. Eventually, they succeeded and the Shiloh Shepherd was founded. The breeder maintained their own registry as they separated from the AKC in 1990. This registry was incorporated in 1991.

Temperament. As you may expect, the Shiloh Shepherd is very similar, in all but size, to the German Shepherd. Also, as a result of the breeding, they have stronger hips. This is not a timid dog and is considered to be an even tempered dog that does not suffer from shyness, they make an excellent companion. They tend to be self confident, brave, and intelligent, with an eager willingness to protect their home and family. They are not hostile or vicious, but have great loyalty and courage.

These are dogs that need to socialize well, as young as possible. Training the Shiloh Shepherd should be no harder than any other, but it must be conducted with a firm kind hand and consistency. It is vital, with a dog this size, to assert yourself as the alpha.

Health issues. As with all large dogs, the Shiloh Shepherd is prone to hip dysplasia. Otherwise they are a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-14 years.

Grooming. The Shiloh Shepherd is a constant shedder, but this increases seasonally. The plush coated variety will require regular brushing to avoid tangles, and keep them clean. Whereas, the smooth coat requires substantially less grooming. You should only bath them about twice a year, or once, as more often will strip the oils from their skin and coat.

Living conditions. Shiloh Shepherds are an active dog when outside, although relatively inactive indoors. This makes them suitable to life in an apartment, as long as they are exercised daily. You can walk them beside a bicycle, and they will happily keep up. Their coat is all weather, and they can live outside, if adequate shelter is provided. They much prefer to live indoors with the family.