King Shepherd

New to the King Shepherd? Temperament, Training & Daily Care for Canadians

The King Shepherd is a large, designer herding‑guardian blend—confident, trainable, and family‑oriented. Suited to spacious homes that can provide daily exercise, training, and structure.

Breed Group
Activity Level
High
Size Category
Extra Large
Coat Type
Double Coat
Coat Texture
Dense
Activity Level
High
Trainability
Very High
Shedding Level
High
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
With Caveats
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Designer
King Shepherd sitting on a forest path, full-body portrait with black-and-tan coat, erect ears, shallow depth of field.

Breed History of the King Shepherd

Developed in the late 20th century in North America by crossing large‑lined German Shepherd Dogs with select working breeds to produce a healthier, robust companion/working dog. The King Shepherd is a recognized designer type with dedicated breed clubs.

King Shepherd Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

Balanced and true to type with hallmark features.

  • Weight: 90–150 lb (41–68 kg)
  • Height: 25–31 in (64–79 cm)
  • Coat type: Double coat, usually medium‑long with dense undercoat
  • Coat colors: Sable, black & tan, black, bi‑colour; variety possible
  • Distinctive traits: Large, powerful frame; level topline; bushy tail; intelligent expression

How to Groom a King Shepherd: Coat Care & Maintenance

Double coat sheds seasonally—routine care keeps it manageable.

  • Brushing: 2–3×/week; daily during shed.
  • Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed.
  • Nails/Teeth: Routine care; de‑shed tools help during blow.

King Shepherd Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

High energy and brains—needs outlets and jobs.

  • Daily duration: 60–90 minutes plus training.
  • Activities: Obedience, hiking, tracking, protection sports with professionals.

Training a King Shepherd: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Confident and biddable—clear boundaries and positive methods are key.

  • Focus areas: Impulse control, neutrality, reliable recall.
  • Socialization: Early and thorough.

King Shepherd Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Large‑breed nutrition for joints and lean muscle.

  • Quantity: ~3.5–6 cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to workload.

King Shepherd Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Work with breeders who perform orthopedic and cardiac screenings.

  • Orthopedic: Hip/elbow dysplasia.
  • Cardiac: Screening recommended.
  • GI: Bloat (GDV) risk in deep‑chested dogs.
  • Life expectancy: 10–12 years.

Where to Adopt or Find King Shepherd Puppies in Canada

Seek reputable program breeders or consider large‑breed rescues.

  • Breeders: Club‑listed programs; verify hips/elbows/heart.
  • Rescue: GSD and large‑breed networks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the King Shepherd

Is the King Shepherd a purebred?
No—it's a designer/ mixed type with breed clubs.

Apartment‑friendly?
With Caveats—size and energy favour larger spaces.

Do they shed?
High seasonally.

How trainable?
Very High—responsive with structure.

Good family dog?
Often loyal and protective; training/socialization essential.

Dog Name Generator – Find the Perfect Name for Your puppy!

King Shepherd sitting on a forest path, full-body portrait with black-and-tan coat, erect ears, shallow depth of field.
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