Shiloh Shepherd

Appearance

Details: The Shiloh Shepherd has a regal appearance, displaying intelligence and power. Its gait is graceful and smooth. The head of the Shiloh Shepherd is broad, while the muzzle is tapering. The ears are triangular and erect. The back is muscular, sloping gently down to the croup. The tail is bushy and long with a slight curve.

Average height and weight (mature size and weight):  28-30 inches, 100-140 pounds

Color / coat variations: Shiloh Shepherds have two varieties that differ in the type of coat. The smooth coated variety has hair of medium length growing close to the body. The plush coat has longer hair along with a soft undercoat. Coat colors include solid black, white, black with tan, golden tan, reddish tan, silver, and cream, shades of rich golden, silver, red, dark brown, dark gray or black sable.

Care

Lifespan: 10-12 years

Litter size: 5-10 puppies

Grooming and shedding: Shiloh Shepherds require regular brushing to keep their coats healthy. The smooth coated variety needs less grooming than the plush. The dogs are usually bathed only when necessary as frequent bathing leads to depletion of the dog's natural oils in the skin. Shiloh Shepherds shed a good amount of hair, though the plush variety sheds somewhat less.

Food habits: Shiloh Shepherds may be fed a combination of meat, milk products, eggs, vegetables, and cereal. Alternatively, they may be given a good brand of dry dog food.

Climate and environment: Shiloh Shepherds thrive in a rural environment. They benefit from access to a yard where they can romp and exercise themselves. These dogs may find it difficult to adapt to apartment living, unless adequately exercised.

Temperament

Behavioral aspects: Shiloh Shepherds are intelligent, courageous, and confident dogs. They are quite composed and not given to aggression. However, they are faithful, and eager to protect the family if the need arises.

With children: They are quite gentle with children.

With other dogs and animals: Shiloh Shepherds usually get along with pets in their own family, though some may be dominant or aggressive toward dogs of the same sex. Some dogs also tend to chase cats and other fleeing animals.

Training and learning rate: Shiloh Shepherds are intelligent, and generally easy to train. They make eager learners.

Activity Level

Agility: They may do well in agility trials.

Affinity to water: Shiloh Shepherds love to swim and are good swimmers that have been successfully used in rescue operations.

How noisy are they: These dogs are not particularly noisy.

Exercise: They need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructiveness. Therefore, they need to be taken for brisk walking or running every day or as often as possible. They are great jogging partners.

Health issues: