10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Shiloh Shepherd
Source © Shutterstock
Only a trained eye could ever figure out exactly what kind of breed the Shiloh Shepherd if at first glance. These dogs look very similar to their other Shepherd family members. However, upon closer inspection, you can notice all the slight differences that the Shiloh Shepherd has. Although any major kennel club does not officially recognize this breed yet, they’re well on their way to being established soon enough. Regardless, Shiloh Shepherds are some of the coolest dogs around; and if you’ve ever wondered what kind of companions they might be, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 10 things you didn’t know about the Shiloh Shepherd dog breed.
1. Different from German Shepherds
Generally, Shiloh shepherds are larger than most German Shepherds. They have a heavy appearance with their broad and solid backs. Their heads are broad in proportion to their bodies, and their cheekbones are highly defined. Their muzzles taper slowly and are usually the same length as their foreheads.
2. Types of coat
The breed has two different coat types: the smooth coat and the plush coat. The smooth coat is also known as the double coat. It’s medium in length and is very close to the body. The outer coat should be dense and straight. On the other hand, the plush coat is typically longer and is paired with a soft undercoat. The mane of a Shiloh with a plush coat is quite distinct, as it extends to the chest.
Source © Shutterstock
3. Movement expectations
For a dog to be recognized as a Shiloh breed, its movements should be smooth and rhythmic. Long strides and flowing motion are expected, as well as a straight back maintained at all times. In a bit of an exaggeration, Shilohs must look as if they’re flying when they’re on the run. Any faults on these might be cause for the dog to not be recognized as a Shiloh.
4. Bred for companionship
It’s true. Shiloh Shepherds are bred to be companions. These dogs are some of the most loyal and outgoing dogs you could ever have. They’re gentle, loving, and highly trainable as well.
Source © Shutterstock
5. Working dogs
Apart from being great companions, Shilohs are also useful as working dogs. Because of their obedience and intelligence, Shiloh Shepherds are quite useful as therapy dogs, search and rescue animals, livestock guardians, service assistants, and many more. These dogs can be trained easily to adapt to any type of environment and are very reliable.
6. Healthy breed
On average, a Shiloh Shepherd could live anywhere from 9 to 14 years. While generally healthy during its youth, you can probably expect the Shiloh to start getting weaker as it gets older. Many Shilohs develop hip dysplasia or other skeletal disorders as they get older. They become more susceptible to injury as well.
Source © Shutterstock
7. American dogs
A breeder, Tina Barber, developed the Shiloh Shepherd breed in New York. She developed the dog from a German Shepherd foundation stock. The Shiloh is considered to still be under development. While breed organizations already recognize the Shiloh as a separate breed, authorized larger registries are still in the process or making the breed official.
8. Indoor dogs
As large as these dogs get, they also get just as inactive. Shiloh Shepherds love to stay indoors, and they will actually be okay in smaller spaces as long as they get their recommended exercise. They actually prefer to be indoors even though their coats can handle all different types of weather conditions. As long as you take them on long hikes regularly and provide them a proper diet, they should do fairly well health-wise.
Source © Shutterstock
9. Shiloh size
When we said that Shilohs can get relatively large, we failed to mention by just how much. Male Shilohs can reach up to 140 to 160 lbs. at full maturity. This is only at three years old. Imagine having a three-year-old dog that weighs 160 lbs. Female Shilohs are slightly smaller but still heavy. They can reach weights of up to 100 to 120 lbs.
10. Shiloh puppies
If you ever wanted to own a Shiloh Shepherd, make sure you go to a reputable breeder who has puppies with known parents. You’d want to have puppies that come from parents with good temperaments and good hip and elbow scores as well. Consider the family history of the puppy before you take it home. It might make a difference in the future.
