ISSR and SSDCA - Home of the Original Shiloh Shepherds

HEALTH AND TEMPERAMENT

Health

The Genetic Task Force (GTF) is a group of dedicated ISSR Shiloh Shepherd breeders that are working together to collect data on genetically transmitted diseases and defects that affect the breed.

ISSR Shiloh breeders have always tracked the virtues and faults of their dogs, as well as their littermates, but are creating an even more comprehensive database that will be used to record data on genetic diseases and defects in the breed.

With this data, the ISSR Breeders will be able to better determine which lines of dogs are carriers of specific diseases, as well as working with fellow breeders to eradicate those diseases in future generations.

Temperament

Courageous and self confident, this gentle giant possesses superior intelligence wrapped in a heart of gold, faithfully protecting his home and those he loves. An extremely versatile and easily trained companion, he is steady and bold without undue aggression; yet sweet and loving when playing with small children, animals or comforting the elderly.

The ideal Shiloh Shepherd temperament is loyal and stable in all situations. The breed was developed to be gentle and loving with all children and is compatible with all animals when properly socialized and raised. A Shiloh Shepherd is adaptable to a variety of environments and lifestyles. They are easily trained to exceed in conformation, obedience, agility, therapy work, Search and Rescue, Schutzhund, STM or just to be your best friend.

ISSR Licensed Breeders take great care in properly matching their puppies with the potential new owner. All pups are tested at 8 weeks of age to evaluate their temperaments and drives, using a temperament test that Tina Barber developed specifically for this breed. An experienced and certified ISSR Litter Evaluator will analyze the puppy’s reaction to specific stimuli and grade the results. This ‘paper picture’, referred to as a Litter Evaluation Report (LER) will provide a clear picture of the pups sociability, human reaction, submission/dominance and conformation and indication of future potential.