Saint Shepherd vs. Silkese: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Saint Shepherds or Silkeses hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Saint Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Silkeses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Saint Shepherd and Silkese dogs?

Curious
Independent
Happy
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Obedient
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Social
Watchful
Quiet

Active
Playful
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Docile
Quick
Gentle
Tempered
Joyful
Sweet
Inquisitive
Easygoing

Shedding Level

Do Saint Shepherds shed more than Silkeses, or which breed sheds more, Saint Shepherds or Silkeses?

5 / 5

Saint Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

1 / 5

Silkeses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Origin

What is the origin of Saint Shepherd and Silkese dog breeds?

United States

Uknown

Ancestry

What are the origins of Saint Shepherd and Silkese breeds?

German Shepherd, Saint Bernard

Silky Terrier and Maltese

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Saint Shepherd and Silkese?

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Saint Shepherd and Silkese breeds first developed?

2000s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Saint Shepherd and Silkese dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Saint Shepherd and Silkese?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Saint Shepherd and Silkese breeds?

Black
Brown
Pied
Sable

Black
Gray
Brown
White
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Saint Shepherd and Silkese breeds?

4 / 5

The coat of Saint Shepherd and Silkese dogs is longer than that of the typical dog.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Saint Shepherd and Silkese?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Saint Shepherd and Silkese?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Saint Shepherd and Silkese?

A Saint Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Silkese can have a litter of 3-5 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Saint Shepherds are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Silkeses are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Saint Shepherd and Silkese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

5 / 5

The Saint Shepherd breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

While the Silkese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Saint Shepherd and Silkese breeds?

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Patellar Luxation
Hypoglycemia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Saint Shepherd and Silkese?

Entropion
Ectropion
Pannus
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

Diabetes
Portosystemic Shunt
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Saint Shepherd and Silkese breeds?

Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Blood And Urine Analysis
Diagnostic Imaging
Cardiac Test

Eye Examination
Ear Examination
Urinalysis
Blood Count

Social Needs

Saint Shepherd vs Silkese social needs comparison

4 / 5

Saint Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

5 / 5

Silkese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Saint Shepherd or Silkese?

3 / 5

Saint Shepherd and Silkese breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Saint Shepherd vs Silkese?

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Saint Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Saint Shepherd or Silkese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Saint Shepherd and Silkese entertained?

Fetch, Napping, Running, Walking, Tug-of-war, Hiking, Movie marathons, Frisbee, Walks, Hunting, Swimming, Traveling, Run, Tricks, Chase, Walk, Play keep away, Play, Playdate, Water play, Hide & Seek, Playing fetch, Hike, Tag, Walkin, Play time, Training, Sleeping, Swim, Brushing

Playing fetch, Walking, Napping, Tug-of-war, Puzzle Toys, Walk, Barking, Jumping, Going on walks

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Saint Shepherds or Silkeses?

Saint Shepherds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Silkeses are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Silkese dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Saint Shepherd or Silkese walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Saint Shepherd, it's at least 18 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Silkese, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Saint Shepherds or Silkeses require more exercise?

In general most Saint Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Silkeses usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Saint Shepherds or Silkeses?

3 / 5

The Saint Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

4 / 5

Silkeses require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Saint Shepherd and Silkese dogs?

Ideally, both Saint Shepherd and Silkese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Saint Shepherds and Silkeses?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Saint Shepherd or Silkese in cups?

For an average 95-150 pound (43 - 68 kg) Saint Shepherd feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 9-14 pound (4 - 6 kg) Silkese feed 1.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Saint Shepherd or Silkese?

The average cost of a Saint Shepherd is somewhere $4.50 - $5.60 per day.

The average cost of a Silkese is somewhere $1.00 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Saint Shepherd or Silkese?

The average per month expenses of a Saint Shepherd is between $134 - $168. This makes an average of $1608 - $2016 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Silkese is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Saint Shepherd and Silkese compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Saint Shepherd or Silkese?

3 / 5

Saint Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

5 / 5

Silkeses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Saint Shepherds or Silkeses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Saint Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

Silkeses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Saint Shepherd or Silkese?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Saint Shepherd or Silkese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Saint Shepherds and Silkeses are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Saint Shepherd or Silkese?

4 / 5

Saint Shepherds and Silkeses are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Saint Shepherd or Silkese dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Saint Shepherd or Silkese?

4 / 5

Saint Shepherd and Silkese are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Saint Shepherd and Silkese?

3 / 5

Saint Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

4 / 5

Silkeses are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Saint Shepherds and Silkeses compare?

3 / 5

Saint Shepherds are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

Silkeses are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.