Breed History:

The Shiloh Shepherd is a modern American breed developed in the 1970s and 1980s by Tina Barber, a trainer and German Shepherd enthusiast. Dissatisfied with the declining health and temperament in show-line German Shepherds, she began a breeding program aimed at creating a larger, gentler, and more stable shepherd-type dog.

Shiloh Shepherds were developed from select German Shepherds, along with Alaskan Malamutes and other northern breeds, to produce a calmer, more family-friendly dog with a reduced risk of hip dysplasia and an athletic, yet proportionate, build. Although not recognised by the AKC, they are maintained through dedicated breed registries, such as the International Shiloh Shepherd Dog Club (ISSDC) and the Shiloh Shepherd Registry (SSR).

Considering adopting a German Shepherd or any of its variants? Check out our page "How to look after a German Shepherd" detailing what to consider before adopting and our recommended products for a GSD and its variants. 

If you want to learn about other giant dog breeds and how to care for them, check out our page "Biggest Dog Breeds: Giant Dog Breeds Temperament, and Care Guide".

If you want to learn about other herding breeds, check out our page "Different Herding Dog Breeds".

Size – Giant

Life Expectancy: 9–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Shiloh Shepherd is a giant, muscular, and well-balanced dog with a strong, athletic frame.

The breed commonly features:

• Broad, well-proportioned head
• Strong, moderately long muzzle
• Dark almond-shaped eyes
• Large, erect ears
• Deep, broad chest
• Thick, muscular neck
• Strong, well-developed limbs
• Long, bushy tail carried naturally

Its coat may be smooth or plush, both with a dense, weather-resistant double coat.

Common coat colours include:

• Black and tan
• Sable
• Black
• Silver
• Grey
• Cream
• Bi-colour

The breed's substantial build and luxurious coat reflect its heritage as a versatile working and companion dog.

Breed Type – Working Dog:

The Shiloh Shepherd is an intelligent, calm, and dependable working breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal and devoted
• Intelligent
• Gentle
• Calm
• Protective
• Affectionate with family

The breed forms strong bonds with its family and is generally friendly with children, strangers, and other pets when properly socialised.

Training:

The Shiloh Shepherd is highly intelligent and eager to please.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation
• Positive reinforcement methods
• Basic obedience training
• Leash manners
• Controlled exposure to people and environments
• Consistent leadership

The breed excels in:

• Obedience
• Search and rescue
• Therapy work
• Service work
• Companion activities

Structured, reward-based training helps the breed reach its full working potential.

Health & Care:

The Shiloh Shepherd is generally healthier than many large shepherd breeds but may be prone to several health concerns, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Degenerative myelopathy
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
• Allergies

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The Shiloh Shepherd thrives in active homes where it receives regular exercise, training, and close family companionship.

Ideal environments include:

• Houses with large, secure yards
• Rural or suburban homes
• Active families
• Experienced or committed first-time dog owners

The breed prefers living indoors with its family and is not suited to prolonged isolation.

Exercise:

The Shiloh Shepherd has moderate to high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks
• Hiking
• Obedience training
• Agility
• Interactive play
• Mental enrichment activities

Regular physical activity and mental stimulation are essential to maintain the breed's physical and mental wellbeing.

Grooming:

The dense double coat requires moderate to high maintenance.

• Brushing two to three times per week
• Daily brushing during seasonal shedding
• Occasional bathing
• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming
• Regular dental care

The breed sheds moderately throughout the year and heavily during seasonal coat changes.

Advantages:

• Calm, gentle, and affectionate temperament

• Excellent with children and family members

• Intelligent and responsive to training

• Larger and generally healthier than standard GSDs

• Versatile for therapy, service, and obedience work

• Less intense prey and herding drive than many shepherds

Disadvantages:

• Needs ample daily exercise and mental stimulation

• Not ideal for small homes or sedentary owners

• Prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long

• Requires regular grooming, especially plush coats

• Still at risk for some large-breed health issues

• Limited availability and high initial cost from breeders