How Much Does A Shiloh Shepherd Cost?

Last Updated on May 21, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

With their noble wolf-like appearance, intelligence, and intensely loyal temperament, Shiloh Shepherds can make wonderful companion dogs for the right owner. However, their large strong size, high activity needs, potential health issues, and training requirements mean owning this unique breed requires significant long-term financial commitment and dedication.

While acquiring and raising a Shiloh Shepherd has notable costs, their steadfast companionship, eager-to-please nature, and regal beauty rewards dedicated owners immensely. Still, this breed is not ideal for first-time dog owners. Do extensive research before making the considerable investment in one of these magnificent dogs.

How Much Does A Shiloh Shepherd Cost?

A Shiloh Shepherd puppy costs from $1500 to $3500 or more from a responsible, health-focused breeder, depending on pedigree, bloodlines, and whether companion or show quality. Be very wary of “bargain” puppies that may come from puppy mills.

Adoption/Rescue Fees – Adopting a young or adult Shiloh Shepherd through a shelter or breed-specific Shiloh Shepherd rescue on average costs $300-$600, including medical expenses like spay/neuter, vaccines, and deworming. Look for health and temperament testing.

Collar/Leash – A properly fitted martingale collar and strong leash will cost $50-$100+. Sizing up as they grow is essential. Harnesses are great for training and control.

Crate – A 48″ extra-large metal crate for adult size runs $300-$500. Ensure enough room to stand and turn when full grown.

Bowls – Durable ceramic or stainless-steel food and water bowls cost $30-$75 depending on size. Non-tip elevated bowls work well.

Multiple Beds – Orthopedic foam beds providing joint support cost $100-$300 depending on size. Washable waterproof covers are useful. Provide a bed in each main room.

Puppy Supplies – Gate, pen, potty pads, enzyme cleaner, Kongs, food puzzles, slow feeder, grooming supplies, car restraint, etc. can cost $500+ initially.

Initial Vet Costs – The first vet visit including exam, vaccines, heartworm test, flea/tick/deworming and microchip averages $500-$800. Spay/neuter costs around $300-$500.

From All Things Dogs, the price range for Shiloh Shepherd puppies averages $1,500 to $2,500, with variations based on lineage, breeder reputation, and appearance.

Canine Journal suggests a starting price of around $1,000 for a Shiloh Shepherd puppy, potentially higher for those from award-winning lineages.

According to DogBreedsList.info, the average price range for a Shiloh Shepherd puppy is $1,000 to $2,000.

A-Z Animals notes that the purchase cost for a Shiloh Shepherd varies but typically falls between $1,000 and $2,000.

Monthly Expenses

High Quality Diet – These giant, active dogs need a protein-rich diet to support joints and muscles. Expect to spend $100-$150 per month on premium dry kibble or $200+ on frozen raw, fresh food diets.

Chews and Treats – Allocate $30-$60 for healthy chewing treats. Use food puzzle toys. Limit calorie-dense treats to avoid obesity.

Toys – Their strong jaws require a steady supply of durable, reinforced toys. Budget $50-$100 per month for damaged item replacement. Rotate toys to maintain interest.

Grooming Tools and Supplies – With thick shedding coats, expect costs of $50-$150 monthly for vacuum cleaners, shedding tools, shampoos, conditioners, brushes, combs, nail clippers, etc.

Professional Grooming – Every 6-8 weeks, grooming to control shedding and properly tend to their thick coat costs $85-$125 on average per visit. Nail trims add $15-$25 more.

Flea/Tick and Heartworm Medication – These preventatives range from $40-$125+ monthly depending on product type, the dog’s weight, and local rates.

Poop Bags – $20-$40 monthly, estimating 2-3 bags needed per day. Refillable dispensers with biodegradable bags reduce waste.

Routine Vet Care – Budget $200-$400 annually for exams, vaccines, bloodwork and other diagnostics to maintain health.

Shiloh Shepherd Health Issues

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia – This painful degenerative joint disease often requires surgery costing $2500-$5000+ per joint or lifelong medications/injections for management. Reputable breeders screen breeding dogs.

Allergies – Both environmental and food allergies may require prescription veterinary diets costing $100-$150 monthly or allergy shot therapy ranging from $500-$2000 annually if symptoms persist.

Bloat – This life-threatening twisting of the stomach requires expensive emergency surgery often exceeding $5000. For deep-chested breeds like Shiloh Shepherds, some owners choose preventative gastropexy, costing $1000-$2000.

Cancer – Common in large breeds, cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, medications, and supportive care can cost $5000-$15,000+ over a multi-month course depending on the type and stage at diagnosis.

Additional Shiloh Shepherd Ownership Costs

Training – Their strong, independent nature makes professional training essential for behavioral control. Classes cost $200-$400. Private sessions average $125+ hourly. Refresher courses are often warranted.

Microchip and Licensing – For ID, microchipping is around $50 initially, with low annual registration fees. Licensing through your county/city costs $25-$100+ depending on jurisdiction.

Boarding – During vacations, kennel boarding costs approximately $45-$75+ daily. In-home pet sitters charge $25-$50 per daily visit.

Dog Walker – For midday exercise or potty breaks, dog walkers average $15-$25 per 20-minute visit.

You might also like our articles about the cost of Alaskan Malamutes, Tibetan Mastiffs, or Akita Puppies.

Long Term Healthcare Costs

Pet Insurance – To offset vet bills, comprehensive plans cost $100-$160+ monthly with deductibles of $500-$1000+ per condition. Figuring insurance into your budget helps avoid big medical bills.

Preventive Care – An annual budget of $600-$1000 covers vaccinations, wellness checkups, screening tests, heartworm medication, flea/tick prevention, dental cleaning and other preventive care to maintain health.

Medical Emergency Fund – Having $5000-$10,000 set aside provides a financial safety net in case of severe illnesses, injuries, or emergency surgeries. Expenses add up rapidly for large breed dogs. Prevention and insurance help reduce reliance on this fund.

Alternative Acquisition Options

Adopting Retired Adults – Many Shiloh Shepherd owners must reluctantly give up beloved dogs due to changes in life circumstances. Adopting a trained adult or senior through a breeder or rescue provides a lower cost, equally rewarding alternative to buying a puppy.

Importing – Importing a Shiloh Shepherd from reputable breeders in Europe often costs $2000-$3500 including travel crate, vetting, and international flights. Importing involves risks like trauma, illnesses, and adaptation challenges.

Final Words

From sizable purchase costs to significant lifetime expenses for healthcare, training, food, supplies and miscellaneous needs, owning a Shiloh Shepherd requires extensive financial preparation and dedication.

But for the right owner willing to provide proper socialization, extensive activity, conscientious training, and devoted companionship, the regal Shiloh Shepherd offers rich rewards. Do your due diligence regarding breed traits and costs before bringing one of these noble gentle giants into your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the climate like for a Shiloh Shepherd?

While able to tolerate cold weather, Shiloh Shepherds adapt well to most climates. Their thick double coats help insulate them from heat and cold. Ensure access to shade and water in high temperatures. Time exercise to avoid peak heat when over 90 degrees. These versatile, people-focused dogs thrive in indoor home environments.

Are Shiloh Shepherds good guard dogs?

Shiloh Shepherds can make good watchdogs, being naturally protective of their families. Their large size and bark may deter intruders. However, they are not true guard dogs. With proper socialization and training, Shiloh Shepherds display reserved loyalty rather than unwarranted aggression. Their intimidating presence provides deterrence, but they are not attack dogs.

How do I know if I have a Shiloh Shepherd?

Shiloh Shepherds resemble their German Shepherd forebears but with key differences like a broader head, brighter eyes, large size often over 100 pounds, and extremely bushy tail. Review your dog’s pedigree papers or get a DNA test like Embark Veterinary to validate its breed. Personality-wise, Shiloh Shepherds are calm, highly trainable, and devoted to their families.