What to Know Before Getting a Shiloh Shepherd: 27 Essential Considerations
Looking for a dog that has the intelligence and loyalty of a German Shepherd but with fewer health issues and a softer, more balanced temperament? Let me introduce you to the Shiloh Shepherd — a gentle giant that’s winning hearts for all the right reasons.
We first learned about Shiloh Shepherds when researching large breeds that were both family-friendly and healthier than the traditional German Shepherd. And wow — these dogs are something special.
What Makes the Shiloh Shepherd Unique?
Originally bred in the 1970s by Tina Barber in New York, the Shiloh Shepherd was created by crossing German Shepherds with Alaskan Malamutes. The goal? To fix the health and temperament issues that were starting to show up in modern GSDs. The result is a large, smart, social dog that’s both striking and sweet.
Size and Appearance
These dogs are big — really big. Think 26–30 inches at the shoulder and up to 130 pounds. They look a bit like wolves, especially the long-coated ones, and tend to turn heads at the park. But don’t worry — they’re big softies at heart, often called “gentle giants” for a reason.
Temperament: Loyal, Smart, and Social
Shilohs are incredibly intelligent and easy to train. They’re loyal and protective without being overly aggressive, which makes them great companions and even decent watchdogs. With proper training and early socialization, they’re typically good with kids, other dogs, and even cats — though, as with any big dog, supervision is key, especially around small children.
Exercise Needs: Not for Couch Potatoes
This is where you really need to be honest with yourself. Shiloh Shepherds need a lot of exercise — not just a walk around the block, but multiple long walks a day and plenty of mental stimulation. Think obedience training, puzzle toys, and space to run. A fenced yard is a must, and apartment living? Definitely not ideal.
Health and Grooming
One of the big pluses of the Shiloh Shepherd is its overall improved health compared to standard German Shepherds. That said, they’re still prone to some of the usual large-breed issues, like hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and panosteitis. Regular vet checkups and a quality diet are important.
And yes — they shed. A lot. These dogs have thick double coats that come in long or short varieties and shed year-round. Regular brushing helps, but you’ll probably want to invest in a good vacuum. Occasional trips to a professional groomer can also make life easier.
Living With a Shiloh
If you’ve got the space, time, and energy, a Shiloh Shepherd can be a truly rewarding companion. They’re calm indoors (after they’ve burned off their energy), eager to please, and deeply bonded to their humans.
But be realistic — this isn’t a low-maintenance breed. If you’re not up for daily exercise, consistent training, and a bit of a fur-covered home, they may not be the best match.
Cost and Availability
Shiloh Shepherds are still a rare breed, so you might need to do some digging to find a reputable breeder. Expect to pay around $1,000 for a well-bred puppy. Most breeders seem genuinely invested in the breed’s health and temperament, which is reassuring.
Final Thoughts
The Shiloh Shepherd is a dream dog for the right type of owner — one who’s active, experienced, and has plenty of space to share. If you’ve ever loved a German Shepherd but wished they were a bit healthier and more mellow, this might just be the breed for you.
But if you’re looking for a low-key, apartment-friendly pup? This probably isn’t your match. Still, for those who are ready, a Shiloh Shepherd can be the ultimate canine companion — loyal, loving, and breathtakingly beautiful.