Shiloh Shepherd

Also called Shiloh

A steady, self-assured giant that is devoted to its people and tends to be soft and patient with children.

Size	Giant
Weight	36 to 59 kg (79 to 130 lb)1 2
Height	66 to 76 cm (26 to 30 in)males 71 to 76 cm, females 66 to 76 cm1 2
Lifespan	9 to 14 years1 2
Coat	Double coat, two varieties: smooth and plush
Origin	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.)1 2
Last checked	2026-09-30

Rare breedShort profile

loyal and gentle with its family

very intelligent and quick to learn

calm, confident protector

1 2

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.1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Shiloh Shepherd. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

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

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.1 2

Colourssable (light silver to deep red)black and tangreyblackbi-colour1

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.1 2

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.1 2

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.2 1

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.2 1

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

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed was named by founder Tina M. Barber after the biblical place name Shiloh, meaning "place of peace," reflecting the breed's calm and gentle temperament.3

Name ideas for your new friend

BaronLunaMaxZaraThorNovaOdinFreyaApolloSashaRockyMaya

A day in the life told by a Shiloh Shepherd

I woke up with a gentle nudge from my human's hand, and I knew it was time for our morning routine. I stretched my long legs and gave a soft woof, then padded over to the window to check on the world. After a good scratch behind the ears, I followed my human to the kitchen, where I sat patiently as they got ready. We went for a long walk in the park, and I kept a watchful eye on everyone, making sure they were safe. A couple of kids came to say hello, and I gave them a friendly tail wag. Back home, I did a few tricks for a treat, then settled down with my favorite toy. In the afternoon, I helped my human with some gardening, and I even carried a small basket. When the evening came, I leaned against their leg, feeling content. I'm a big softie at heart, but I'm always on guard for my family.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

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

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Shiloh Shepherd, and at what times?

Feed your adult Shiloh Shepherd at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each day. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Check the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a schedule that suits your dog.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Shiloh Shepherd eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always check with your vet for a safe diet plan.1 5 Pet Wiki plan

How often should I bathe a Shiloh Shepherd?

Bathe your Shiloh Shepherd only occasionally, about every 10 weeks or as needed. Over-bathing can strip natural oils from its double coat. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Shiloh Shepherd need brushing?

Brush your Shiloh Shepherd two to three times a week, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. Its double coat needs regular care to prevent mats and remove loose fur.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Shiloh Shepherd's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every few weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Shiloh Shepherd need?

Your Shiloh Shepherd needs daily exercise like brisk walks, jogs, or runs, plus mental stimulation. A bored dog can become restless, so mix in training or a job to do. Pet Wiki suggests daily walks and play.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Shiloh Shepherd's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog-safe toothpaste, ideally daily. Check ears weekly for dirt or redness, and never push anything into the ear canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Shiloh Shepherd live?

A Shiloh Shepherd typically lives between 9 and 14 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, many enjoy a long life.1 2

Is a Shiloh Shepherd good with children and other pets?

Yes, this breed is known for being gentle and patient with children, and it can get along well with other pets when properly socialized. Early training and positive introductions help it become a calm family member.1 2

Can a Shiloh Shepherd be left alone?

Shiloh Shepherds are people-oriented and prefer to be near their family. They can be left alone for moderate periods if well exercised, but may become restless if left too long. Crate training and gradual alone time can help.1 2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.