Shiloh Information
Shiloh Shepherds were bred to resemble the shepherds of the past in both looks and temperament. Shilohs have been selectively bred to have a gentler, more family-friendly temperament. They are larger than most German Shepherds. Males typically weigh between 95-140lbs and reach heights of 28-32 inches at the shoulder. Females weigh in between 80-120lbs and are 26-30 inches at the shoulder. Many genetic diseases, such as Canine Hip Dysplasia, have been significantly reduced in the ISSR Shiloh Shepherd. The Shiloh also comes in both a long-coated (plush) or a shorter German-Shepherd-type (smooth) coat. Their average life span is 10-13 years.
The breed standard describes Shilohs aptly as "a gentle giant with a heart of gold". They love to be with their people; going places with you and being a part of your life. They would not be happy chained out or kenneled away from their families. They are incredibly intelligent & empathetic . Their ability to sense how their people are feeling, that "almost human" intelligence and connection to their families, truly sets them apart. This characteristic makes Shiloh Shepherds excellent Therapy Dogs or Service Dogs.
Shiloh Shepherds have a natural beauty that draws people to them. They tend to turn a lot of heads so be prepared for lots of attention when you take one out in public !
Just a Dog, by Richard Biby
From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog,"
Or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog."
They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the
costs involved for "just a dog."
Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."
Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog,"
But I did not once feel slighted.
Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog," And in those days of darkness the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.
If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably
understand phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."
"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship,
trust, and pure unbridled joy.
"Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a
better person.
Because of "just a dog", I will rise early, take long walks and look
longingly to the future.
So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment
of all the hopes and dreams of the future,
The fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.
"Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts
away from myself and the worries of the day.
I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog",
But the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being
"just a man or woman."
So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog"
Just smile...
Because they "just don't understand."
The Shiloh Shepherd Story- History of the Shiloh Shepherd; written by the breed founder, Tina Barber.
Shiloh Shepherd Dog Club of America
ISSR - International Shiloh Shepherd Registry
ISSR Shiloh Shepherd Learning Center
ISSR Shiloh Shepherd Genetic Task Force
ISSR Shiloh Shepherd Coat Color Guide
The Importance of Socialization