History
It is one of those rare breeds that do not have any significant recognition from the kennel clubs. One U.S. German Shepherd lover bred German Shepherd dogs in 1960s. In the 70s she started focusing on breeding the large and old styled shepherds. It was in the year 1990 when she was able to separate her breed by AKC and began maintaining registry records as Shiloh Shepherds. It was believed that these shepherds were the result of a cross between German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute. ISSR was established in 1991, and there are several different registries now.
Varieties
The dog has two variations:
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Shiloh Shepherd with a plush coat
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Shiloh Shepherd with a Smooth coat
It was also crossed with other dogs
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The Great Pyrenees, Shiloh Shepherd X German Shepherd- King Shepherd
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Labrador Retriever X Shiloh Shepherd
Temperament & Personality
Shiloh Shepherd and German Shepherd are very similar to each other. These puppies are loyal, friendly dogs and well-known companion dogs. It is a very self-confident, courageous and intelligent dog which never steps back in protecting its family. They are very friendly with others pets and children but possess a desire for assistive services, obedience, herding and other works. This breed can adapt to multiple environments with their socialization skills. They are an ideal watchdogs with various positive qualities.
Exercise
Shiloh Shepherd is high on energy and has a craving for hard activity combined with training. Long walks or jogs regularly and ample playtime in a fenced yard will be adequate for the dog. Running with the owner’s cycle is also a good exercise. As they are intelligent, they will also require mental stimulation in the form of puzzle games and learn tricks, etc. If the breed remains under-exercised, they become restless and destructive. They are best for houses with yards, but can also live an apartment life with sufficient exercise.
Grooming
Coat of this dog comes in two varieties, plush and smooth. The dog with plush coat will need regular brushing to keep it tangle free and clean while the smooth coat requires minimal grooming. It is a massive shedder seasonally and sheds bits of hair uniformly. Excessive bathing can deplete their natural oils, therefore bathe them only once or twice a year. Tooth brushing twice or thrice a week will keep up with its oral health. Toenails require clipping when they overgrow, and ears need to be cleaned on a weekly basis to avoid ear infection.
Health Problems
It is a healthy breed but can suffer from few health problems such as:
Major Problems:
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Gastric Torsion
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Bloating
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Bacterial Overgrowth Syndrome
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Pancreatic Insufficiency
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Hip dysplasia
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Panosteitis
Although, with random veteran checkups and occasional tests the dog can stay healthy.
Training
Proper training methods are crucial for building a good relation with Shiloh Shepherd. The training sessions can be focused on the rules below:
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Encouraging respecting each other
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Identifying each other’s needs
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Spending a good time with each other will help to boost up the relationship
They have a shy nature, but it can be eradicated with early socialization. It will also help the dog to mix with unknown people and children properly. Positive training methods like hugs, praises and nonfood object will make the dog learn faster.
Feeding
Good-quality dry dog food specially made for these kinds of dogs is acceptable. Additionally, occasionally offer fruits, vegetables, cheese, canned food, cooked eggs, etc.. Limit people food and branded puppy food as it can cause vitamin and mineral imbalances, teeth problems and obesity.
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