How Are Shiloh Shepherds Different from German Shepherds or King Shepherds?

Left: German Shepherd | Center: Shiloh Shepherd | Right: King Shepherd

Shiloh Shepherds are often mistaken for oversized German Shepherds—but anyone familiar with the breed knows there’s far more going on beneath the surface. While they share a common ancestor, Shilohs have been developed with entirely different goals in mind, setting them apart from both German Shepherds and King Shepherds in three key areas: genetics, appearance, and temperament.

Genetics and Breeding Philosophy

The Shiloh Shepherd breed was created by Tina Barber, a passionate and visionary dog breeder who began developing the breed in the 1970s. Frustrated by the growing health issues and extreme working temperaments in modern German Shepherds, Barber envisioned a new kind of shepherd—one that would be healthier, gentler, and better suited to family life.

To achieve this, she introduced a variety of other breeds into her program, including the Sarplaninac, Alaskan Malamute, Canadian White Shepherd, and Altdeutscher Schäferhunde. This genetic diversity laid the groundwork for a dog that not only looked different but behaved differently as well.

Unlike most purebred dog registries that discourage outcrossing, the International Shiloh Shepherd Alliance (ISSA) continues to support controlled genetic infusions through its Genetic Diversity Project. This program helps ensure long-term health by introducing new bloodlines, then carefully breeding back to the established Shiloh type.

In contrast, the King Shepherd breed was established by a former Shiloh breeder who departed from Barber’s original program. King Shepherds incorporate Great Pyrenees and Akita into their foundation and have followed a different breeding path focused more on guardian instincts than companion-oriented traits.

Appearance

Shiloh Shepherds are generally larger and more balanced in structure than German Shepherds. The breed standard calls for males to stand at least 28 inches tall, which is approximately two inches taller than the German Shepherd standard.

This 2010 photo comparing a German Shepherd and a Shiloh Shepherd in the show ring clearly illustrates these differences in head shape, ear size, and overall presence.

They also tend to have:

• Smaller, triangular ears

• A less square, more “wolf-like” head

• A body that is less elongated than that of the German Shepherd

• A preference for the plush long coat, which is considered a defining feature

King Shepherds are similar in size to Shilohs but are typically heavier and stockier. Their breed standard encourages a broader, square head and larger ears, giving them a more blocky appearance. Most Kings are long-coated, though smooth coats are allowed (but rare). White coats are disqualified in the King standard, while they are acceptable in Shilohs.

German Shepherds, depending on the line (working vs. show), tend to be smaller, more angular, and more extreme in structure, particularly in the rear angulation of some show lines.

Temperament: A True Companion Shepherd

What truly sets the Shiloh Shepherd apart is its intentional temperament. Tina Barber’s vision was clear: she wanted a calm, social, family-first dog—not a high-drive working animal.

Today, Shiloh Shepherds are known for being:

• Steady-natured and even-tempered

• More trainable and adaptable for the average household

• Soft in personality, often preferring cooperation over confrontation

• Capable of focused work (such as Search and Rescue), but not bred for constant drive or intensity

This is a significant departure from German Shepherds, which are bred primarily for working ability. While German Shepherds can be excellent companions in the right hands, they often require more training, structure, and experience to manage their high energy and protective instincts.

King Shepherds, developed with livestock guardian traits in mind, tend to be more independent and strong-willed. The inclusion of breeds like the Great Pyrenees and Akita contributes to this temperament. While Kings can be loving and loyal, their personalities reflect their working purpose and can make them more challenging for novice owners.

Conclusion

Although the Shiloh, German, and King Shepherd all share roots, their modern forms have diverged in critical ways. Through thoughtful outcrossing, health-conscious breeding, and a focus on temperament, the Shiloh Shepherd has become a breed all its own—a majestic, loving, and intelligent companion who fits beautifully into family life.

For anyone seeking the loyalty and nobility of a shepherd breed, but with a gentler spirit and healthier structure, the Shiloh Shepherd is truly one of a kind.

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