King Shepherd
The King Shepherd is a large breed that was developed in the United States. It is a loyal and protective dog with a gentle temperament, making it an excellent family pet.

King Shepherd Breed overview
King Shepherds are large, muscular dogs that are loyal, protective, and affectionate towards their human family. They require plenty of exercise, training, and socialization to stay healthy and happy. They are well suited for families with children, as they have a playful and patient nature. They are adaptable to various living environments, but they require enough space to run and play. They are intelligent, obedient, and trainable, making them suitable for novice and experienced owners alike. They have moderate grooming requirements and shed moderately throughout the year. They have a strong prey drive and a natural talent for hunting and tracking. Overall, King Shepherds are versatile dogs that can excel in various roles and activities.
What To Expect When Caring For a King Shepherd
Grooming
King Shepherds have a thick coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance.
They should be brushed at least once a week to remove dead hair and prevent matting. It is also important to trim their nails and clean their ears regularly.
Exercise
King Shepherds are active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
They enjoy going for walks or runs with their owners and also benefit from activities such as agility training or obedience training.
Health
King Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to some health issues such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.
It is important to ensure that the breeder you choose tests their breeding dogs for these conditions to reduce the risk of passing them on to puppies.
Training
King Shepherds are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train.
They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy activities that challenge their minds such as obedience training.
Nutrition
King Shepherds are large dogs that require a high-quality diet to maintain their health and energy levels.
They should be fed a balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. It is important to monitor their weight to prevent obesity.
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King Shepherd Traits & Characteristics
The King Shepherd is a large and muscular breed with a straight back and broad chest. They have a long muzzle and dark, almond-shaped eyes.
These dogs have a thick and double-layer coat that protects them from harsh weather conditions. Their coat can be either long or short and comes in a variety of colors.
King Shepherds are friendly and social dogs that make great family pets. They are loyal and protective of their owners but can be suspicious of strangers.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
King Shepherds are known for their affectionate nature towards their human family. They are loyal, protective, and loving dogs. They bond strongly with their owners and respond positively to attention and affection.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
King Shepherds are gentle and patient with children, making them excellent family pets. They have a playful nature, and their energy level matches that of kids, making them great playmates. King Shepherds can handle a moderate amount of roughhousing, and they are always eager to join in on playtime.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
King Shepherds are generally friendly and sociable with other dogs. Early socialization and training are essential to ensure that they interact well with other canines. They are confident and assertive, but they won't start a fight without a good reason. They may become territorial and protective of their home and family if they sense a threat to their loved ones.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
King Shepherds are usually wary of strangers and may take some time to warm up to new people. They are protective of their family and home, and they will alert their owners of any perceived danger. However, with proper socialization, they can learn to differentiate between friend and foe and be more accepting of new acquaintances.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
King Shepherds have a playful and energetic nature that makes them excellent playmates for kids and adults alike. They enjoy interactive games like fetch, tug-of-war, and agility training. They also have a high prey drive that makes them natural hunters and trackers.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
King Shepherds are highly alert and vigilant dogs, making them excellent watchdogs and protectors. They are aware of their surroundings and can quickly detect unusual sounds and smells. They have a strong territorial instinct and will guard their home and family against potential threats.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
King Shepherds can adapt to various living environments, including apartments and rural areas. However, they require enough space to exercise and play, so they won't be suitable for small apartments or confined spaces. They can handle moderate changes in their routine and environment, but they may become stressed or anxious if exposed to significant disruptions.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
King Shepherds have a dense, medium-length double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. They require regular brushing to remove loose hair and minimize shedding. The shedding can aggravate allergies, so frequent grooming is essential to keep King Shepherds clean and healthy.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
King Shepherds require moderate grooming to keep their coats healthy and shiny. They need weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute the natural oils in their coats. They only need occasional baths to maintain good hygiene. However, they do require regular nail trimming and ear cleaning to prevent infection and discomfort.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
King Shepherds do not drool excessively compared to other breeds. They may drool occasionally, especially after eating or drinking, but it won't be a significant problem in most cases. Regular dental care is essential to keep their mouths clean and healthy, regardless of their drooling propensity.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
King Shepherds are large and powerful dogs that can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy and muscular build that is well suited for their role as protectors and guardians. They are also agile and athletic, making them great competitors and performers in various dog sports.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
King Shepherds have a high energy level and require plenty of physical activity and exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need at least 90 minutes of daily exercise, including walks, jogs, and playtime. They are not suitable for sedentary or inactive owners who cannot match their energy level.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
King Shepherds require at least 90 minutes of daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They enjoy various activities like running, hiking, playing fetch, and participating in dog sports. They have a high energy level that requires a consistent and challenging exercise routine to prevent destructive behavior and anxiety.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
King Shepherds have a strong work ethic and are well suited for performing various tasks and jobs. They excel in search and rescue, therapy, herding, guard duty, and other roles that require discipline, focus, and intelligence. They enjoy having a purpose and feel fulfilled when they can contribute to their human family and society.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
King Shepherds have a moderate prey drive that makes them excellent hunting and tracking dogs. They are skilled at following scents and tracking down game, making them ideal for hunting expeditions. They also have excellent endurance and physical stamina, which allows them to keep up with the most demanding hunting conditions.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
King Shepherds have a high level of physical stamina and energy that makes them ideal for various demanding activities. They are agile, athletic, and muscular, allowing them to perform high-intensity workouts with ease. They have a strong will and determination, which makes them excel in competitions, sports, and work-related tasks.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
King Shepherds are generally healthy and have a longer lifespan than other large breeds. They are susceptible to some health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer. Regular visits to the vet, proper nutrition, exercise, and care can prevent or manage these conditions.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
King Shepherds are prone to obesity if they do not receive enough exercise and have an unhealthy diet. They require a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their energy and nutritional needs. Regular exercise and play can help burn calories and prevent weight gain. Overweight dogs are more prone to health problems, including joint pain, heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
King Shepherds have a thick, double coat that provides insulation against cold weather. However, they may still require extra warmth and protection in extreme temperatures, especially if they are exposed to snow, ice, or rain. They are not ideal for living in frigid climates without proper shelter and care.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
King Shepherds can handle moderate temperatures, but they require extra cooling and hydration in hot and humid weather. They are prone to heatstroke and dehydration if left in hot cars, enclosed spaces, or exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. They require access to plenty of water and shade to stay comfortable in warm weather.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
King Shepherds are not ideal for apartment living due to their high energy level and exercise needs. They require enough space to run, play, and explore, making them better suited for houses with yards or open spaces. Additionally, they may bark and become destructive if confined for long periods, which can upset neighbors and landlords.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
King Shepherds have a moderate tendency to wander or roam, especially if they are not adequately exercised or mentally stimulated. They may become curious about their surroundings and explore beyond their normal boundaries. They require supervision and training to prevent them from getting lost or injured.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
King Shepherds are not overly sensitive compared to other breeds. They can handle constructive criticism and negative reinforcement as long as it is fair and consistent. However, they may become anxious, stressed, or depressed if subjected to harsh or abusive treatment. They require gentle and patient handling to build trust and rapport with their owners.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
King Shepherds have a moderate tolerance for being left alone, but they may become anxious or destructive if left for extended periods. They require plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and affection to keep them calm and content. Separation anxiety can lead to destructive behavior, excessive barking, and other undesirable habits.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
King Shepherds can bark quite a bit, especially if they are bored, lonely, or stressed. However, with proper training and socialization, they can learn to control their barking and respond well to commands. They may use barking as a way to alert their owners of perceived danger or to communicate their needs.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
King Shepherds are highly intelligent and require mental stimulation and engagement to ward off boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy solving puzzles, learning new tricks, and performing tasks that challenge their minds. They are quick learners and can excel in activities that require focus, discipline, and problem-solving skills.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
King Shepherds are suitable for novice owners, as long as they receive proper training and socialization. They are obedient, eager to please, and respond well to positive reinforcement. However, they are large, strong, and assertive dogs that require firm handling and guidance. Novice owners should be prepared for the challenges of training and socializing a large breed like King Shepherds.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
King Shepherds are intelligent, obedient, and trainable dogs. They respond well to positive reinforcement, praise, and treats. They enjoy learning new skills and performing tasks to please their owners. They excel in obedience training, agility, tracking, and other activities that require discipline and focus.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
King Shepherds are known for their affectionate nature towards their human family. They are loyal, protective, and loving dogs. They bond strongly with their owners and respond positively to attention and affection.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
King Shepherds are gentle and patient with children, making them excellent family pets. They have a playful nature, and their energy level matches that of kids, making them great playmates. King Shepherds can handle a moderate amount of roughhousing, and they are always eager to join in on playtime.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
King Shepherds are generally friendly and sociable with other dogs. Early socialization and training are essential to ensure that they interact well with other canines. They are confident and assertive, but they won't start a fight without a good reason. They may become territorial and protective of their home and family if they sense a threat to their loved ones.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
King Shepherds are usually wary of strangers and may take some time to warm up to new people. They are protective of their family and home, and they will alert their owners of any perceived danger. However, with proper socialization, they can learn to differentiate between friend and foe and be more accepting of new acquaintances.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
King Shepherds have a playful and energetic nature that makes them excellent playmates for kids and adults alike. They enjoy interactive games like fetch, tug-of-war, and agility training. They also have a high prey drive that makes them natural hunters and trackers.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
King Shepherds are highly alert and vigilant dogs, making them excellent watchdogs and protectors. They are aware of their surroundings and can quickly detect unusual sounds and smells. They have a strong territorial instinct and will guard their home and family against potential threats.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
King Shepherds can adapt to various living environments, including apartments and rural areas. However, they require enough space to exercise and play, so they won't be suitable for small apartments or confined spaces. They can handle moderate changes in their routine and environment, but they may become stressed or anxious if exposed to significant disruptions.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
King Shepherds have a dense, medium-length double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. They require regular brushing to remove loose hair and minimize shedding. The shedding can aggravate allergies, so frequent grooming is essential to keep King Shepherds clean and healthy.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
King Shepherds require moderate grooming to keep their coats healthy and shiny. They need weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute the natural oils in their coats. They only need occasional baths to maintain good hygiene. However, they do require regular nail trimming and ear cleaning to prevent infection and discomfort.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
King Shepherds do not drool excessively compared to other breeds. They may drool occasionally, especially after eating or drinking, but it won't be a significant problem in most cases. Regular dental care is essential to keep their mouths clean and healthy, regardless of their drooling propensity.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
King Shepherds are large and powerful dogs that can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy and muscular build that is well suited for their role as protectors and guardians. They are also agile and athletic, making them great competitors and performers in various dog sports.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
King Shepherds have a high energy level and require plenty of physical activity and exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need at least 90 minutes of daily exercise, including walks, jogs, and playtime. They are not suitable for sedentary or inactive owners who cannot match their energy level.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
King Shepherds require at least 90 minutes of daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They enjoy various activities like running, hiking, playing fetch, and participating in dog sports. They have a high energy level that requires a consistent and challenging exercise routine to prevent destructive behavior and anxiety.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
King Shepherds have a strong work ethic and are well suited for performing various tasks and jobs. They excel in search and rescue, therapy, herding, guard duty, and other roles that require discipline, focus, and intelligence. They enjoy having a purpose and feel fulfilled when they can contribute to their human family and society.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
King Shepherds have a moderate prey drive that makes them excellent hunting and tracking dogs. They are skilled at following scents and tracking down game, making them ideal for hunting expeditions. They also have excellent endurance and physical stamina, which allows them to keep up with the most demanding hunting conditions.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
King Shepherds have a high level of physical stamina and energy that makes them ideal for various demanding activities. They are agile, athletic, and muscular, allowing them to perform high-intensity workouts with ease. They have a strong will and determination, which makes them excel in competitions, sports, and work-related tasks.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
King Shepherds are generally healthy and have a longer lifespan than other large breeds. They are susceptible to some health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer. Regular visits to the vet, proper nutrition, exercise, and care can prevent or manage these conditions.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
King Shepherds are prone to obesity if they do not receive enough exercise and have an unhealthy diet. They require a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their energy and nutritional needs. Regular exercise and play can help burn calories and prevent weight gain. Overweight dogs are more prone to health problems, including joint pain, heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
King Shepherds have a thick, double coat that provides insulation against cold weather. However, they may still require extra warmth and protection in extreme temperatures, especially if they are exposed to snow, ice, or rain. They are not ideal for living in frigid climates without proper shelter and care.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
King Shepherds can handle moderate temperatures, but they require extra cooling and hydration in hot and humid weather. They are prone to heatstroke and dehydration if left in hot cars, enclosed spaces, or exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. They require access to plenty of water and shade to stay comfortable in warm weather.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
King Shepherds are not ideal for apartment living due to their high energy level and exercise needs. They require enough space to run, play, and explore, making them better suited for houses with yards or open spaces. Additionally, they may bark and become destructive if confined for long periods, which can upset neighbors and landlords.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
King Shepherds have a moderate tendency to wander or roam, especially if they are not adequately exercised or mentally stimulated. They may become curious about their surroundings and explore beyond their normal boundaries. They require supervision and training to prevent them from getting lost or injured.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
King Shepherds are not overly sensitive compared to other breeds. They can handle constructive criticism and negative reinforcement as long as it is fair and consistent. However, they may become anxious, stressed, or depressed if subjected to harsh or abusive treatment. They require gentle and patient handling to build trust and rapport with their owners.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
King Shepherds have a moderate tolerance for being left alone, but they may become anxious or destructive if left for extended periods. They require plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and affection to keep them calm and content. Separation anxiety can lead to destructive behavior, excessive barking, and other undesirable habits.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
King Shepherds can bark quite a bit, especially if they are bored, lonely, or stressed. However, with proper training and socialization, they can learn to control their barking and respond well to commands. They may use barking as a way to alert their owners of perceived danger or to communicate their needs.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
King Shepherds are highly intelligent and require mental stimulation and engagement to ward off boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy solving puzzles, learning new tricks, and performing tasks that challenge their minds. They are quick learners and can excel in activities that require focus, discipline, and problem-solving skills.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
King Shepherds are suitable for novice owners, as long as they receive proper training and socialization. They are obedient, eager to please, and respond well to positive reinforcement. However, they are large, strong, and assertive dogs that require firm handling and guidance. Novice owners should be prepared for the challenges of training and socializing a large breed like King Shepherds.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
King Shepherds are intelligent, obedient, and trainable dogs. They respond well to positive reinforcement, praise, and treats. They enjoy learning new skills and performing tasks to please their owners. They excel in obedience training, agility, tracking, and other activities that require discipline and focus.
Similar breeds
History of the King Shepherd
The King Shepherd was developed in the United States in the 1990s by American breeders.
The breed was created by crossing the German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, and Siberian Husky to produce a larger and more versatile version of the German Shepherd.
The King Shepherd is still a relatively new breed and is not yet recognized by major kennel clubs such as the AKC or UKC.

King Shepherd Puppies
King Shepherd puppies are born with a thick coat of fur and are very active from a young age.
Puppies should be socialized from a young age to ensure they grow into well-behaved and friendly adult dogs.