If you’ve ever wondered about the impressive size and gentle nature of King Shepherds, you’re looking at a relatively new designer breed that combines the best traits of several powerful dog breeds. These magnificent dogs have captured the hearts of families seeking a larger, more docile alternative to traditional German Shepherds.
The King Shepherd is created by crossing German Shepherds with breeds like the Shiloh Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, and Alaskan Malamute to produce a larger, more gentle companion.
This strategic breeding program began in the 1990s when American breeders wanted to develop a dog with the German Shepherd’s intelligence and loyalty but with a calmer temperament and bigger frame.
Understanding the King Shepherd breed means diving into its fascinating origins, exploring the specific breeds that contribute to its makeup, and discovering what makes these dogs such exceptional family companions.
You’ll learn how careful breeding choices created a dog that’s both a devoted protector and a gentle giant, perfect for families who want the majesty of a large working dog with a more balanced personality.
Origins of King Shepherd
The King Shepherd breed was developed in the 1990s by two American breeders with a clear vision. David Turkheimer and Shelley Watts-Cross wanted to create a better version of the German Shepherd.
Their goal was simple but important. They wanted a dog that kept all the good traits of German Shepherds but fixed some problems. The new breed needed to be bigger, stronger, and healthier.
Key Parent Breeds Used:
- German Shepherd (American and European lines)
- Shiloh Shepherd
- Great Pyrenees
- Alaskan Malamute
The breeders started with Shiloh Shepherds as their base. These dogs were already a mix of European and American German Shepherds plus Alaskan Malamutes. Then they added Great Pyrenees to get the size and calm nature they wanted.
By 1995, the King Shepherd club was formed to help improve and promote the breed. This showed how serious the breeders were about their new dog.
Recognition Status:
| Organization | Status |
|---|---|
| American Kennel Club (AKC) | Not recognized |
| American Rare Breed Association | Recognized |
| World Wide Kennel Club | Recognized |
The American King Shepherd Club works to set breed standards and register dogs. Even though the AKC doesn’t recognize them yet, other groups like the American Rare Breed Association and World Wide Kennel Club do accept the breed.
The American King Shepherd has become popular for families who want a loyal, smart, and gentle giant dog.
What Breeds Make King Shepherd?
The King Shepherd comes from crossing four main breeds together. Breeders developed this designer breed by mixing German Shepherd, Shiloh Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, and Alaskan Malamute.
German Shepherd forms the foundation of this mix. This breed provides the intelligence and working ability you see in King Shepherds.
The Shiloh Shepherd adds size and a calmer temperament. These dogs are already larger than regular German Shepherds.
Great Pyrenees brings protective instincts and a gentle nature with children. This breed also contributes to the King Shepherd’s impressive size.
Alaskan Malamute provides strength and endurance. Malamutes give King Shepherds their thick, weather-resistant coat.
| Parent Breed | What It Contributes |
|---|---|
| German Shepherd | Intelligence, trainability |
| Shiloh Shepherd | Size, calm temperament |
| Great Pyrenees | Protective nature, gentleness |
| Alaskan Malamute | Strength, thick coat |
Some breeders use different combinations. King Shepherds can include other large breeds like Akitas instead of one of the four main breeds.
The goal was creating a healthier version of the German Shepherd. Breeders wanted fewer health problems and a larger, more robust build.
American breeders David Turkheimer and Shelly Watts-Cross started this breeding program in the 1990s. They focused on combining the best traits from each parent breed.
Characteristics of King Shepherd
King Shepherds are giant-sized dogs with impressive physical traits. Males typically weigh 130-150 pounds and stand over 29 inches tall, while females weigh 90-110 pounds and reach over 27 inches in height.
These dogs have a sturdy, muscular build with well-proportioned heads and high-set erect ears. Their almond-shaped eyes and deep, broad chest give them a noble appearance. You’ll notice their thickly feathered, curved tail that adds to their majestic look.
The King Shepherd’s double coat is weather-resistant and comes in long or plush varieties. Common colors include black, cream, white, gold, sable, and black saddle with tan markings.
Temperament and Behavior:
- Loyal and intelligent
- Protective yet gentle
- Good with children
- Minimal barking
- Shy with strangers initially
King Shepherds make excellent family dogs due to their loving and trustworthy nature. They’re also skilled working dogs, often used in search and rescue missions because of their trainable disposition.
Health Considerations:
Like their parent breeds, King Shepherds may face certain health issues:
| Common Health Issues | Description |
|---|---|
| Elbow Dysplasia | Joint malformation affecting mobility |
| Bloat | Dangerous stomach condition requiring immediate care |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy | Eye condition that can lead to blindness |
| Degenerative Myelopathy | Progressive spinal cord disease |
These dogs typically live 10-14 years with proper care. Their moderate shedding and weather-resistant coat make grooming manageable with regular brushing.
