Shiloh Shepherd
Also called Shiloh
From United States. Developed by Tina Barber from large, old-style German Shepherd lines, split from the AKC system in 1990 as its own breed. (The worklist listed Germany, but that is the origin of its German Shepherd ancestors, not of the Shiloh itself.)12
At a glance the quick version
Sources differ: one gives 80-130 lb (about 36-59 kg) for both sexes; another gives males 100-130 lb (45-59 kg) and females 80-100 lb (36-45 kg).
Coat and looks how to spot one
double coat, two varieties: smooth and plush
A big, strongly built shepherd. The smooth variety has a thick, medium-length outer coat, while the plush variety grows longer hair with a noticeable mane around the neck and feathering, over a dense undercoat.12
Personality what they are like
A steady, self-assured giant that is devoted to its people and tends to be soft and patient with children. It is watchful and protective of home and family, yet friendly once it knows someone, and it reads human moods well, which is why many work as therapy and support dogs.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Needs daily exercise such as brisk walks, jogs or runs, ideally mixed with training or a job to do. Enjoys demanding activity and a bored dog can get restless.12
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush two to three times a week (more for the plush coat), with extra brushing during seasonal shedding. Bathe only occasionally, trim nails every few weeks and check ears weekly.12
Home where they are happiest
Can manage in smaller homes if well exercised, but is happiest with a large yard. The weatherproof coat handles cold and warm climates, though it prefers living indoors close to its owners.2
Company who they like around
People-oriented and likes to be near its family. Early socialisation and training help it grow into a calm, well-mannered adult.21
The story where it all began
Tina Barber began breeding large, old-fashioned style German Shepherds in the United States in the 1970s. In 1990 her line separated from the AKC and became the Shiloh Shepherd, with other breeds such as the Alaskan Malamute and white shepherd lines added along the way to shape its size and temperament.21
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
The breed comes in two coat types from the same breeding: a sleek smooth coat and a fluffier plush coat with a mane.1
- 2
Shilohs have worked as service dogs, therapy dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs and even flock guardians.1
- 3
Its founders wanted to bring back the larger, old-style type of shepherd, so the Shiloh stands noticeably taller than a typical German Shepherd.2
- 4
Several separate registries keep Shiloh Shepherd records, reflecting splits within the breed's community over the years.2
Recognised by the official bits
- International Shiloh Shepherd Registry (ISSR) and other breed registries
- Kept by breed-specific registries such as the ISSR, TSSR, NSBR and SSBA, plus general registries (ACA, APRI, ARBA, DRA, NKC). Not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Royal Kennel Club.2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Shiloh Shepherd. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
- Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
- Bathevery 10 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkevery 2 weeks
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- Shiloh Shepherd Dog Breed Information - DogTime dogtime.comused for origin, size, lifespan, coat, colours, temperament, care, fun facts
- Shiloh Shepherd - Dog Breed Info Center dogbreedinfo.comused for origin, registries, size, lifespan, coat, exercise, grooming, living conditions, history
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.