The Shiloh Shepherd is a large and majestic breed developed to be a softer, more family-oriented alternative to the traditional German Shepherd. Bred in the 1970s by Tina Barber in the United States, the goal was to create a dog that combined size, strength, and intelligence with a gentler, more predictable temperament.
They look similar to a German Shepherd but tend to be larger, with a calmer and more balanced personality. While not officially recognized by all major kennel clubs, Shiloh Shepherds have a growing fanbase for good reason—they’re devoted, protective, and great with families.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Working dog, companion dog |
| Size | Large to giant |
| Height | 26 to 30 inches (66 to 76 cm) |
| Weight | 80 to 130 pounds (36 to 59 kg) |
| Lifespan | 9–14 years |
| Coat Type | Plush or smooth double coat |
| Colors | Black, brown, gray, sable, tan, or bi-color |
| Temperament | Calm, loyal, intelligent |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high |
| Exercise Needs | A couple of hours daily |
| Shedding | Heavy (seasonal) |
| Trainability | High |
| Average Price | Varies |
| Best For | Active homes, experienced owners, families with space |
History and Development
The Shiloh Shepherd was created by combining German Shepherds with other large breeds like Alaskan Malamutes and Canadian Shepherds to increase size and improve temperament.
The breeder wanted a dog that had the trainability of the German Shepherd but was less intense and better suited for companionship.
Over the years, careful selection and dedicated breeding led to what is now the Shiloh Shepherd—a dog known for its even temperament, intelligence, and strong loyalty to its people.
Appearance
Shiloh Shepherds are big, strong, and graceful. They typically have a broad head, long muzzle, and expressive eyes. Their ears are erect and slightly larger than a standard German Shepherd’s, and their tails are long and bushy. Looking for more gentle giants? Check out this list of the Best Large Dogs for Families.
Coats can be either smooth or plush, with plush coats being more common. They come in many colors, including sable, black and tan, gray, and various shades of brown. They resemble a wolf-like version of the German Shepherd but are more massive in build.
Temperament and Behavior
Shilohs are known for being calm, steady, and affectionate. While they’re protective, they’re not overly aggressive or reactive like some working-line Shepherds. They’re especially good with children and are often described as gentle giants.
They enjoy being part of the family and don’t do well when left alone for long periods. They are sensitive to their owner’s mood and thrive on companionship and structure.
This breed is smart and eager to learn, which makes them easy to train with positive reinforcement. Harsh training methods are unnecessary and can actually backfire.
Family Life and Social Behavior
Shiloh Shepherds are fantastic family dogs. They bond deeply with their humans and are very affectionate and attentive. With early socialization, they are usually accepting of strangers, other dogs, and even smaller pets.
They’re also good with kids, though their size means play should be supervised to prevent accidental knocks or bumps. They’re not the best choice for families that are gone all day, as they thrive on human interaction.
Training and Exercise
This breed is highly trainable but needs consistency and mental engagement. They enjoy learning and excel in obedience, agility, and even therapy or service work.
Daily walks and structured play sessions help keep them fit and content. They’re not as hyperactive as some working breeds but still need a couple of hours of movement and stimulation every day to stay balanced.
A bored Shiloh may become vocal, dig, or find other ways to entertain themselves—so plan to stay active.
Grooming and Shedding
These dogs are heavy shedders, especially during spring and fall. Regular brushing is essential to control the amount of hair in your home. Plush coats require more upkeep than smooth ones, as they’re more prone to matting.
Basic grooming routine:
- Brush 3–5 times a week
- Bathe every 6–8 weeks or when needed
- Check and clean ears regularly
- Trim nails every few weeks
- Brush teeth weekly for dental health
Health Considerations
As a large breed, the Shiloh Shepherd is prone to some common issues found in other big dogs. Responsible breeders test for health problems and work to improve genetic lines.
Potential health concerns:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Panosteitis (growing pains in young dogs)
- Eye issues such as cataracts
With proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care, many Shilohs enjoy a long and healthy life.
Diet and Nutrition
Shiloh Shepherds need a balanced diet that supports their size and energy level. They generally do well on a high-quality large-breed formula that includes lean protein, healthy fats, and glucosamine for joint support.
Feeding guidelines:
- 4 to 6 cups of kibble per day, divided into two meals
- Avoid free-feeding to prevent weight gain
- Use slow feeders if your dog tends to eat too fast
- Make fresh water available at all times
Work with your vet to adjust portions based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity.
Is the Shiloh Shepherd Right for You?
This breed is ideal for owners who want a big, loving, and intelligent dog. They’re best suited for homes with space, time to train, and a strong interest in including their dog in family life.
Not a good fit for people who want a low-maintenance or low-shedding pet, or those who are away from home all day.
But if you’re looking for a loyal companion that’s protective, smart, and gentle with kids, the Shiloh Shepherd offers a lot to love in a large, beautiful package. Still deciding if you’re ready for a dog? Here’s a helpful guide on Getting a Dog.