What is the ISSR ?
The ISSR (International Shiloh Shepherd Registry) is the original registry for Shiloh Shepherds and is the only one authorised by the breed founder to maintain the pedigrees of all Shiloh’s bred by legitimate licensed breeders.
Why not AKC ?
The Shiloh Shepherd is still considered a rare breed under development. In order to be considered for AKC recognition a breed can only comprise dogs more than 3 generations removed from the most recent outcross; whilst the majority of ISSR Shiloh’s meet this criteria this does add a constraint to the gene pool. The ISSR continues to carefully document the pedigrees and development of the breed whilst the breed warden and the licensed breeders plan carefully for the future and move towards the ultimate goal of recognition.
How can you help ?
Recognition of the Shiloh by a body such as the AKC or FIC also requires the parent club to have a strong base of active members willing to show their support by working with and titling their dogs. If you are interested in recognition for the Shiloh Shepherd, do your part and join the SSDCA!