Introduction
The Shiloh Shepherd dog is a relatively new breed of canine that has gained a lot of popularity among dog lovers worldwide. Bred mainly as a companion and family pet, the Shiloh Shepherd is a magnificent creature that possesses excellent intelligence, strength, and loyalty. In this article, we will delve deeper into the history of this breed, its characteristics, intelligence, body size, child-friendliness, health needs, grooming requirements, trainability, exercise needs, and average lifespan.
Shiloh Shepherd dog History
The breed was developed by Tina Barber in the 1970s after she got disillusioned with the health problems that German Shepherds faced. Barber, a German Shepherd breeder, set out to create a larger and healthier breed of canine, and the Shiloh Shepherd was born. Being a relatively new breed, the Shiloh Shepherd is not yet officially recognized by the AKC but has become increasingly popular in the United States and other parts of the world.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Breed Characteristics
The Shiloh Shepherd is a large and powerful canine breed with a broad chest and muscular build. They have a long and straight back that is devoid of the sloping seen in German Shepherds. With a thick fur coat, the Shiloh Shepherd can come in a variety of colors, including black, cream, gray, red, and bicolored. They have a broad and noble head with almond-shaped eyes and floppy ears that stand erect when they are alert.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Intelligence
The Shiloh Shepherd is an extremely intelligent dog and is capable of learning many commands and tricks. They are exceptional problem solvers and can think on their feet, making them excellent companions for families with young children.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Average Size
Shiloh Shepherds are large dogs that can weigh anywhere between 80 and 120 pounds (36-54 kg). They can stand up to 30 inches (76 cm) tall at the shoulder, and their size makes them an excellent choice for families looking for a guardian breed.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Child Friendly
The Shiloh Shepherd is an excellent breed for families with children. They are gentle giants and have a patient and calm temperament that makes them ideal playmates for kids. However, they require socialization from an early age to ensure that they get along well with other dogs and pets.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Health Needs
Like all breeds, the Shiloh Shepherd can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat are some of the common problems that can affect this breed. It is essential to provide them with regular vet checkups to ensure that they remain healthy and happy.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Grooming Needs
The Shiloh Shepherd requires minimal grooming, and brushing their long hair once a week is enough to keep their coat healthy and clean. They do not require frequent bathing, and it is essential to trim their nails regularly.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Amount Of Shedding
The Shiloh Shepherd is not a hypoallergenic breed and can shed their fur throughout the year. Regular brushing and grooming can help control shedding, but expect to find some fur on your furniture and clothes.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Trainability
The Shiloh Shepherd is highly trainable and responds well to positive reinforcement. With patience and consistency, they can learn many tricks and follow complex commands. Early socialization and training are vital for this breed to ensure that they grow up to be well-behaved pets.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Exercise Needs
The Shiloh Shepherd is an active breed that requires daily exercise and mental stimulation. Long walks, jogging, and hiking are excellent physical activities for this breed. They also love to play games and participate in obedience training sessions, which can help them burn off their excess energy.
Shiloh Shepherd dog Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of the Shiloh Shepherd is around 10-13 years. However, with proper care and regular vet checkups, they can live longer and remain healthy well into their senior years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Shiloh Shepherd is a magnificent dog breed that possesses excellent traits and characteristics. Their loyalty, intelligence, and gentle temperament have endeared them to many families worldwide. If you are considering adopting or buying a Shiloh Shepherd, it is important to ensure that you can provide them with the exercise, training, and love they need to thrive and be happy.