
Herding breed from New York, United States
The Shiloh Shepherd is a giant-sized herding breed known for its calm, gentle, and intelligent temperament. Bred from German Shepherds with an emphasis on a stable, affectionate nature, these dogs are loyal and confident. They have a double coat that sheds heavily, requiring regular grooming. While generally good with children, individual behavior can vary. Their size and energy level (rated 3 out of 5) mean they are not ideal for apartment living (suitability score 2). Estimated adult weight ranges from 45 to 59 kg, height from 71 to 76 cm, and lifespan from 9 to 14 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
The Shiloh Shepherd was developed in the 1970s in New York by Tina Barber. The goal was to create a larger, calmer shepherd with a focus on sound hips, stable temperament, and reduced hip dysplasia, emphasizing family companionship. The breed was created by crossing larger old-style German Shepherds with Alaskan Malamutes and other breeds. This history is based on available sources, but specific dates and recognition details are not fully documented. The breed is classified in the Herding group and its recognition status varies by registry.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Higher shedding tendency
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
No Shiloh Shepherd-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
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Shiloh Shepherds are a giant breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 45 to 59 kg, and height is 71 to 76 cm. Estimated lifespan is 9 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
The breed is described as calm, gentle, intelligent, loyal, confident, and affectionate. However, individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
Their energy score is 3 out of 5, indicating moderate energy. They likely need regular daily exercise, but specific requirements are not provided in the facts.
They have a double coat that sheds heavily (shedding score 4 out of 5). Grooming score is 3 out of 5, suggesting regular brushing is needed to manage shedding.
Child suitability is rated 4 out of 5, indicating they are generally good with children. Dog compatibility is 3 out of 5, so they may get along with other dogs but individual temperament varies.
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, suggesting they are not ideal for small spaces due to their giant size and moderate energy needs.
The breed originated in New York, United States, developed in the 1970s by Tina Barber. It was created by crossing larger old-style German Shepherds with Alaskan Malamutes and other breeds.
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.