The King Shepherd is a huge, clever, and devoted breed of dog known for its elegant appearance and gentle temperament. A breed developed in the United States in the 1990s by crossing the German Shepherd breed with both the Shiloh Shepherd and Alaskan Malamutes and Great Pyrenees breeds, King Shepherds were bred specifically for the purposes of creating an even more massive, docile breed of German Shepherd.

These giant dogs are called “gentle giants” since they have massive sizes with an easy-going nature. They get along well with kids and other animals, which is the reason they become the perfect choice for family families. King Shepherds are also very intelligent and learning, which can make them learn various tasks easily. The double coat of fur found on this breed needs frequent grooming to achieve the proper look.

If you want a protector dog that is both loving and works hard, then get the King Shepherd for your home!

Breed Overview

Group: Hybrid dogs

Height: 27 to 31 inches (males); 25 to 27 inches (females)

Weight: 90 to 150 pounds (males); 75 to 110 pounds (females)

Coat: Long, course, and either straight or wavy

Coat Color: Black, white, tan, brown, gray, or silver

Life Span: 10 to 11 years

Temperament: Intelligent, calm, friendly, loyal, protective

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: United States

Diet & Nutrition

King Shepherds need high-quality food suitable for their size and energy level. Feed them dog food high in protein, nutritious fats, and essential vitamins. Choose a formula intended for large, energetic breeds to aid in their growth and muscle development.

Control the quantity of food to maintain the well-being of your King Shepherd. Feeding too much will make your dog overweight, straining their joints further. Separate the food into two or three meals in a day, and limit the treats and table scraps given.

This energetic breed needs fresh water to be vital. Ensure your King Shepherd always has clean water to drink and keep them hydrated, especially after exercise. Continuously check their weight and seek advice from your veterinarian if any changes are needed to their diet.

King Shepherd Lifespan

Typically, the King Shepherd has a life span of around 10 to 12 years like many big breeds of dogs. Their lifetime may vary from breed to genetics, diet, and activities and in general care given. If provided with the right care, it will make them healthier for a much longer period.

In order to keep them extended, ensure consistent physical exercise and a diet. To be able to detect problems like hip dysplasia, and heart problems as well that are more typical in big dog breeds and prevent that, regular veterinary exams are mandatory.

A loving and calming environment also plays a major impact on their overall well-being. Spending time getting along with your King Shepherd to meet their mental and physical demands can not only keep your King Shepherd happy but may also extend the King Shepherd’s lifespan.

Size of King Shepherd

King Shepherds are among the largest shepherd breeds. Typically, male adults are around 27 to 31 inches tall at the shoulder, while females stand a little shorter at 25 to 29 inches tall. Their large size is a reason for their majestic and powerful nature.

These dogs generally vary from 90 to 150 pounds in weight depending on their gender and genetics. However, they are elegantly proportioned and carry themselves with an air of great grace, despite their enormous size. They need to maintain a strong and toned body by eating nutritious foods and staying active.

Because of their size, they are great guard dogs and would be good company for outdoor adventures. However, the same reasons make them have a rather large living area requirement; hence, they are much better suited to larger houses or properties with adequate space to roam around in.

Habitat

King Shepherds excel in open areas where they can run around and play freely. They do well in homes with large backyards or the countryside. Their high energy level does not make them suitable for small areas.

Although very versatile, King Shepherds prefer cooler weather because of their thick double coat. They will be okay in colder weather but may need extra attention to keep them from overheating in warmer climates if taken outside for outdoor activities.

Provide a safe, warm indoor space for your King Shepherd to retreat to. They are family dogs and do not do well alone. The perfect home for this loyal breed is a loving home with plenty of opportunities for exercise and the building of deep emotional bonds.

Characteristics of King Shepherd

King Shepherds are known to be intelligent, faithful, and docile dogs. They are relatively easily trained and love pleasing hence, they are a suitable animal for work and for home and family companionship. Its affable nature makes them exceptional around children and other pets as well.

In terms of appearance, King Shepherds are large and muscular dogs, known for their dense double coats. Their eyes have expressed confidence and majesty; also, they have a confident stride. They are great protectors, showing protective behavior and avoiding aggression.

These energetic dogs require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. King Shepherds also have a highly social nature and thrive in an environment of lots of love and attention from family. Their combination of strength, intelligence, and heart makes them a unique and lovable breed.

Behavior and Temperament

King Shepherds are known to be loyal, gentle, and friendly. They make close bonds with their family members and are famous for being protective without any aggression. Their peaceful nature makes them the best friends for children and other animals.

Training these dogs is a very rewarding job because they are intelligent and fun-loving learners. They relish the idea of taking on a role, either to protect, guide, or simply be a companion; they always display their best possible behavior if trained and socialized regularly.

King Shepherds are quite social and abhor lonely conditions for longer durations. They thrive best when showered with abundant care and attention in their respective families. Their loving and responsible natures make them ideal as the ultimate family dog.

Housing

King Shepherds need spacious housing because of their large size and active nature. They thrive in homes with big yards where they can run and play without being confined. Apartments or small areas are not suitable for them.

Although they love spending outside, Kings Shepherds should not spend all their time outside. They are the socialized canines that need to share their space with families. Provide the king shepherds safe indoor room to rest inside and be able to feel safer.

Their thick fur allows them to withstand cold temperatures, so be sure to protect them from extreme heat. Make sure they have a shelter and enough clean water when outside. The ideal amount of indoor warmth and outdoor exercise suits their needs to a T.

Substrate

A solid and comfortable ground surface within their living and play environment is essential for King Shepherds. Grass can be used outdoors as the grass is not hard on the joints, and thus it provides adequate traction with activities.

Non-slip flooring should be present in the houses to prevent slipping or being injured, especially by larger-sized dogs, as they get prone to joint issues with age. To help the dogs sleep properly and exert less pressure on the joints, orthopedic dog beds of the correct size will be provided.

Avoid rough or sharp surfaces like gravel, which may hurt their paws. Ensure there are no blockages or cluttered outdoor spaces that may result in injuries. A blend of grassy outdoor areas and cushioned indoor areas ensures your King Shepherd remains comfortable and healthy in its surroundings.

Breed History of King Shepherd

The breed King Shepherd was produced during the 1990s in the USA as an interbreeding product between German Shepherds, Shiloh Shepherds, and other huge breeds. The goal behind such crossbreeding was the production of a more spacious variation of the German Shepherd fit for families.

This kind of dog was bred to be at once a friendly companion as well as a working dog. The King Shepherd boasts that intelligence and loyalty are given from generation to generation, which makes this animal an excellent protector as well as a dear family friend.

The King Shepherd is a breed that was fairly new but gained popularity because of its gentle nature and impressive size. They are now known for being affectionate, powerful, and versatile, and they shine in various activities.

King Shepherd Training and Care

Teaching a King Shepherd is enjoyable because it is very intelligent and ready to satisfy the owner. Start with training at a very young age, and use lots of positive reinforcement like offering treats and praise. This kind of dog responds well to clear, constant commands.

King Shepherds socialize well. They should be exposed to various people, animals, and places from the very beginning. This will help in their development as balanced, confident dogs that are sociable and comfortable with situations.

Self-care in terms of physical activity is also very significant. King Shepherds need daily exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation. A thick coat requires brushing multiple times a week to avoid matting. Veterinary appointments should be quite regular to keep them in fine health.

King Shepherd Health Problems

Typically, King Shepherds have good health, but sometimes some health issues occur. Similar to the other large breeds, hip and elbow dysplasia might happen. It is a condition where joints are affected, which means discomfort and problems with mobility are possible.

Another concern is bloating, a serious problem where the stomach twists and fills with gas. It requires prompt medical care. Having scheduled times for meals and avoiding heavy exercise immediately after eating may help prevent bloating.

Heart problems and eye conditions such as cataracts can also be passed down to them through inheritance. Routine veterinary appointments are essential for early detection and management of these problems. Ensuring a well-rounded diet and promoting regular physical activity helps to maintain their general health and well-being.

Appearance

King Shepherds are large, muscular dogs of very majestic appearance. With weight ranging from 90 pounds to 150, an average height is between 25 and 31 inches. Powerful physics makes them look a sturdy and self-assuring beasts.

Their double coat can be medium to long in length and is thick. Its coat comes in a range of colors, including tan, black, sable, and brown. The jacket provides tremendous insulation during cold conditions.

Their almond-shaped eyes are usually brown and full of expression. King Shepherds have big, upright ears and a fluffy tail that completes their majestic appearance. Their general look combines both strength and elegance, setting them apart from other breeds.

Predators

King Shepherds, being large in size and powerful, manage to protect themselves from almost all predators. Their high size and loud barking can drive away dangers like coyotes or wild animals in areas of rural regions.

However, they are vulnerable to encountering dangerous situations from larger predators like bears or mountain lions while living near wild terrains. Monitoring and strong barriers help protect them from unwanted encounters.

Even though King Shepherds are courageous and watchful, they actually rely on their owners for security. Their safety involves keeping them in safe environments as well as avoiding risky areas. Their instinctive qualities and loyalty make them perform well in both safeguarding themselves and their loved ones.

Breed Overview

King Shepherds have gained popularity in size, loyalty, intelligence, and the gentle temperament they possess. When the German Shepherd breed was cross-bred with breeds such as Alaskan Malamutes, there came the production of an all-rounded companion.

Easily trainable and working well at whatever task that they were assigned, these dogs made excellent family pets, therapy dogs, and working dogs. They proved to be friendly, protective, and perfect companions for families raising children.

King Shepherds require sustained physical activity and mental activity to stay happy and fit. Their two-layer, dense fur is prone to shedding and thus needs daily grooming to minimize hair fall. They really thrive if they are taken care of and trained well and become friends with their owners.

Further Research

To learn more about King Shepherds, you should start by researching trusted online sources and literature about the breed. Study their past, care requirements, and mannerisms to get a deeper understanding.

Go see King Shepherd breeders or adoption centers to meet the dogs face-to-face. You can have conversations with owners or experts, which will give you useful information about their character, education, and everyday routine.

Join online forums or social media groups of enthusiasts dedicated to the King Shepherd breed. These communities share ideas, experiences, and information. Learning from other’s experiences can help you to decide if this breed would be suitable for your lifestyle. Always seek relevant information from credible sources.

Interesting Facts

King Shepherds are larger than German Shepherds and were bred just for size, strength, and their amiable nature. Despite their massive size, they are friendly and suited for families.

These dogs come with a high level of intelligence and are capable of learning orders quickly. They are very skilled in tasks such as search and rescue, therapy, and even herding. Their ability to adjust them differentiates them from other breeds.

King Shepherds have a protective instinct and stand their ground to protect their families when necessary. However, they are not naturally aggressive animals. They are good companions and loyal guards, offering loyalty and loving behavior.

Population

King Shepherds are considered to be one of the less common breeds when compared to more common ones like German Shepherds. They are few and exclusive due to the fact that they are not recognized by some prominent kennel clubs.

Breeders control the King Shepherd population so closely to ensure that the dogs are healthy and have great temperaments. The main advantage of ethical breeding practices is maintaining their distinct features and preventing overbreeding. Find a King Shepherd, often it requires research and patience.

Though not very common, their friendly and loyal nature is becoming more known, which slowly increases popularity. Dedicated owners and breeders work together to maintain the breed’s standards and increase awareness of this incredible dog.

Reproduction/Breeding

Inbreeding King Shepherds calls for very careful planning for the welfare of the puppies. Breeders select strong, healthy dogs with friendly temperaments to represent the breed. They also scout for genetic defects like hip dysplasia before breeding.

A King Shepherd female normally gives a litter of 6-10 puppies. Growing dogs should be given enough attention, which includes a comfortable environment, regular feeding, and introductory socialization to become well-rounded adult dogs.

Ethical breeders do not overbreed and suffer from health problems. They are focused on breeding dogs that have good health, intelligence, and loyalty. Anyone interested in breeding should learn about the specific breed and consult with knowledgeable professionals to ensure success.

Pros & Cons as a Pet

King Shepherds are great companions for energetic households. They are loyal, intelligent, and outstanding with children. Their trustworthiness as watchdogs and their affectionate nature make it easier to connect with owners.

However, King Shepherds require regular exercise and mental stimulation. If this is not provided, they lose interest and can cause significant damage. Their thick coat of fur also needs regular grooming to limit shedding and maintain its health.

Besides that, spacious dimensions might not be quite suitable for a smaller dwelling or an apartment. Not to forget consistent training and socialization should ensure good manners. While it makes wonderful companions, having a King Shepherd as a pet requires time and space for commitment.

FAQ:

What is a King Shepherd?

The King Shepherd is a mix of different breeds, one of which must be the German Shepherd. Frequently, they are mixed with the Shiloh Shepherd, with ancestry from the Alaskan Malamute, Great Pyrenees, and the Akita. Despite their large size, they are affectionate and loving.

What is the difference between a King Shepherd and a German Shepherd?

King shepherds, closely related to the German shepherd (GSD), are larger with longer fur and were bred with other similar dogs to address some genetic health issues found in GSDs.

How do I tell if my dog is a King Shepherd?

King Shepherds typically have thick medium length fur, and they commonly display a majestic feathered look. The coat may be red, black, brown, fawn, or sable, and is commonly a mix of two or more of these shades. Typically, these dogs mainly receive the coat color of their German Shepherd parent.

What is the difference between a Shiloh shepherd and a King Shepherd?

Kings and Shilohs are typically similar in size; while Kings are slightly shorter on average according to their breed standard, they are generally heavier. The majority of them have long hair, but it is uncommon to find one with a smooth coat according to the standards. Their skulls are broad and square, as per their typical shape.

Are king shepherds friendly?

King Shepherds are typically friendly but a bit reserved with strangers, and they typically interact well with other animals. However, it is important to provide proper socialization to maintain their relaxed temperaments.

What is the largest dog in the world?

English Mastiffs are known for being the biggest dog breed. They hold the official record for being the largest dog breed in the world. As per Guinness World Records, Aicama Zorba held the title for the world’s longest and heaviest dog, weighing 343 pounds (156 kilograms) and standing at 37 inches (94 centimeters) tall at the shoulder.

Which shepherd dog is strongest?

The Kangal Shepherd

The Kangal Shepherd, a dog breed from Turkey, is famous for its considerable size and strength. Boasting a bite force of 743 PSI, this breed reigns supreme as the ultimate powerhouse in the canine realm.

What is the bite force of a King Shepherd?

The bite of this animal is believed to be around 700 to 750 PSI, making it the most powerful bite among all canines. To give some perspective, the bite force of a person is approximately 120-140 PSI, while a German Shepherd’s is about 238 PSI, and a pit bull’s ranges from 240-330 PSI.

Are king shepherds rare?

King Shepherds are a rare and new breed, so chances to see them may be limited – but once encountered, they leave a lasting impression.

What is the largest shepherd breed?

Caucasian Shepherd

White mountain dog. The Caucasian Shepherd is a type of dog from Eastern Europe that was specifically bred to guard and guide livestock. This large dog breed, which can exceed 30 inches in height, was highly effective in guarding flocks and herds from predators in the Caucasus mountain area due to its size.