The American King Shepherd is a majestic, large-sized breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and gentle temperament. Developed as a versatile companion and working dog, the King Shepherd combines some of the best traits of the German Shepherd, Shiloh Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, and other breeds, resulting in a dog that is both protective and affectionate. This article explores the origins, characteristics, care requirements, and everything you need to know about raising King Shepherd puppies.
Table of Contents
- Breed History & Origin
- Physical Appearance
- Temperament & Personality
- Health & Lifespan
- Care & Grooming
- Training & Exercise
- King Shepherd Puppies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Summary
1. Breed History & Origin
The American King Shepherd is a relatively new dog breed, originating in the United States in the late 20th century. The breed was developed in the 1990s by American dog breeders Shelley Watts-Cross and David Turkheimer. Their aim was to create a large, healthy, and intelligent shepherd dog with a stable temperament, suitable as both a family companion and a working or service dog.
To achieve this, breeders selectively crossed German Shepherds, Shiloh Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, and occasionally Great Pyrenees and Akitas. The result was the King Shepherd—a dog larger and more robust than the traditional German Shepherd, but with a softer, mellower disposition.
“The King Shepherd was bred to be the ultimate family companion—intelligent, loyal, and versatile. Its gentle nature makes it a wonderful addition to almost any household.”
— Shelley Watts-Cross, co-founder of the breed
The King Shepherd is recognized by several rare-breed registries, including the American King Shepherd Club (AKSC) and the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA).
2. Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large to giant |
| Weight | 90–150 lbs (40–68 kg) |
| Height | 25–32 inches (63–81 cm) at the shoulder |
| Coat | Double coat; medium to long length; straight or slightly wavy |
| Colors | Most commonly sable, black and tan, solid black, bi-color, or gray |
| Build | Muscular, athletic, slightly longer than tall |
| Head | Broad skull, expressive almond eyes, erect ears |
King Shepherds are visually impressive, often turning heads with their wolf-like appearance and substantial size. Their thick double coat protects them in various climates, and their strong, athletic build hints at their working dog heritage.
- Eyes: Medium-sized, almond-shaped, brown or amber
- Tail: Long, bushy, carried low when relaxed
- Ears: Large, upright, and pointed
- Paws: Large and rounded, well-padded for endurance
3. Temperament & Personality
The King Shepherd is prized for its even temperament, intelligence, and loyalty. Unlike some working breeds that can be aloof or overly protective, King Shepherds are generally friendly and approachable, though they retain strong protective instincts. They are highly trainable, eager to please, and form strong bonds with their families.
- Loyal: Deeply attached to their owners; thrive on companionship
- Protective: Natural guardians, but not aggressive without cause
- Gentle: Excellent with children and other pets if socialized early
- Intelligent: Quick learners; excel in obedience, agility, and service work
- Confident: Calm and stable, not prone to anxiety when properly trained
“King Shepherds are gentle giants—loyal enough to guard your home, but loving and playful with children and other animals.”
Socialization is important for King Shepherds, as with all large breeds. Early exposure to people, places, and other animals helps ensure they grow into well-rounded adults.
4. Health & Lifespan
The King Shepherd benefits from a diverse gene pool, making it generally healthier than some purebred dogs. However, as a large breed, it is still prone to certain health issues:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Allergies and skin conditions
- Hypothyroidism
Responsible breeders test their breeding dogs for common hereditary conditions to reduce the risk of passing on health issues. Regular veterinary checkups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise are essential for a long, happy life.
| Lifespan | 10–13 years (average for large breeds) |
|---|---|
| Health Screening | OFA hips and elbows, cardiac, thyroid, DM |
Nutrition
King Shepherds require a balanced, high-quality diet suitable for large, active breeds. Puppies should be fed a large-breed puppy formula to ensure slow, steady growth and reduce the risk of joint issues. Avoid overfeeding and monitor weight to reduce stress on joints.
5. Care & Grooming
Caring for a King Shepherd is manageable with the right routine. Their thick double coat sheds year-round, with heavier shedding in spring and fall.
- Brushing: 2–3 times a week; daily during shedding seasons
- Bathing: Every 2–3 months or as needed
- Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks
- Ears: Check and clean weekly to prevent infections
- Teeth: Brush several times a week
Regular grooming helps reduce shedding and keeps your King Shepherd comfortable. Due to their size and energy, King Shepherds are best suited to homes with a yard or owners who enjoy regular outdoor activities.
Living Environment
- Ideal for homes with a fenced yard
- Not well-suited for apartment living unless given ample exercise
- Enjoy being part of the family; not recommended as outdoor-only dogs
6. Training & Exercise
King Shepherds are highly intelligent and eager to learn, making them a joy to train. They excel in obedience, agility, tracking, search and rescue, and service work.
Training Tips
- Start training and socialization early—puppy classes are recommended
- Use positive reinforcement: treats, praise, and play
- Be consistent, patient, and firm but gentle
- Expose to different people, animals, and environments
- Keep training sessions short and engaging to hold their attention
Exercise Needs
King Shepherds are energetic. They need at least 1–2 hours of physical activity daily. This can include walks, hikes, play sessions, and mental enrichment such as puzzle toys or obedience work.
- Long walks and hikes
- Interactive play (fetch, tug-of-war, frisbee)
- Training exercises (obedience, tricks, scent games)
- Agility or dog sports
Insufficient exercise or mental stimulation can lead to boredom and unwanted behaviors (chewing, digging, barking). A tired King Shepherd is a happy companion!
7. King Shepherd Puppies
What to Expect from King Shepherd Puppies
King Shepherd puppies are adorable, fluffy, and full of curiosity. As with all large breeds, early training and socialization are critical. Here’s what new puppy owners should know:
- Rapid Growth: Puppies grow quickly; feed a high-quality large-breed puppy food to support bone and joint health.
- Socialization: Expose puppies to diverse environments, people, and animals to build their confidence.
- Training: Begin basic obedience as soon as possible. King Shepherds are smart and respond well to positive training.
- Vaccinations: Follow your vet’s recommended vaccination and deworming schedule.
- Health Checks: Monitor growth and development; schedule regular vet visits.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
When searching for a King Shepherd puppy, seek breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and proper socialization. Ask for health clearances for the parents, visit the breeder’s facility, and observe the puppies’ environment.
- Check references and reviews
- Ask about the puppy’s early socialization experiences
- Request copies of health screening results
- Avoid breeders who cannot provide health documentation or who have multiple litters available at once
Raising King Shepherd Puppies
- Provide a safe, comfortable space for your puppy to rest and play
- Begin housebreaking immediately; be patient and consistent
- Establish routines for feeding, potty breaks, and play
- Enroll in puppy kindergarten or socialization classes
- Supervise introductions to children and other pets
Remember, King Shepherds are sensitive to their owner’s mood and tone. Use gentle, positive methods to build trust and encourage learning.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Are King Shepherds good family dogs?
Yes, King Shepherds are known for their gentle and loyal nature. They are excellent family companions, especially when socialized from a young age. They are patient with children and protective of their home.
How big do King Shepherds get?
Males typically weigh 110–150 lbs and stand 28–32 inches at the shoulder; females are slightly smaller. They are one of the largest shepherd breeds.
Do King Shepherds shed a lot?
Yes, they have a thick double coat and shed heavily—particularly during seasonal changes. Regular brushing controls loose hair and keeps their coat healthy.
Are King Shepherds aggressive?
No, well-bred and properly socialized King Shepherds are not aggressive. They are protective but not hostile or overly suspicious.
Can King Shepherds live in apartments?
It’s possible but not ideal. They need plenty of space and exercise. Apartment living may work if owners are very active and committed to daily exercise.
How long do King Shepherds live?
The average lifespan is 10–13 years, which is relatively long for a giant breed.
9. Summary
The American King Shepherd is a loyal, intelligent, and versatile breed that thrives as both a devoted family companion and a capable working dog. Their gentle disposition, protective instincts, and trainability make them a favorite among dog lovers looking for a large, affectionate, and reliable canine friend.
If you’re considering adding a King Shepherd to your family, be prepared for the responsibility that comes with owning a large, active dog. With proper care, training, and socialization, a King Shepherd will reward you with years of love, loyalty, and companionship.
Interested in adopting a King Shepherd puppy? Research reputable breeders, ask questions, and make sure you’re ready for the commitment. The American King Shepherd may just be the perfect addition to your home.