04/08/2026
Fortune
There are certain dogs who leave an imprint not only on the hearts of those who know them, but on the very future of a breed. Fortune “CH Blackfyre My Wyld Fortune CGC” is one of those rare souls.
In 2018, the breed club undertook a careful and thorough evaluation of Fortune. Every detail was considered with intention and careful deliberation. When he was ultimately approved as new foundation stock, it was not simply a decision, it was a moment of excitement and possibility. The board recognized in him something truly special: a dog who could help carry the Shiloh Shepherd breed forward.
Fortune stands at the very upper edge of his breed standard in size, with structure that is beautifully correct for a Tervuren. Yet what makes him extraordinary is that even his “faults” became virtues within the context of Shiloh development. His strong, masculine head, perhaps not always rewarded in his own breed’s show ring, but was deeply valued by the Shiloh community, where such qualities are both admired and needed.
Beyond conformation, Fortune is the embodiment of purpose. A true working farm dog, he moves easily between roles. Respectful of free-range chickens, confidently helping to move sheep across the property, and stepping seamlessly into structured work. He has earned success in obedience, agility, and rally, meeting each challenge with enthusiasm and clarity. There is a quiet completeness to him, the kind of dog who simply is, fully and beautifully, what a dog should be.
His contributions to the breed extend far beyond the surface. Fortune has brought improvements in undercoat, body proportions, fitness, coordination, and agility. His biddability is exceptional, his versatility undeniable. Structurally, he offers refined almond-shaped eyes, rich pigment, tight, well-formed feet, and refined saber tails. His small, triangular ears and improved ear set add yet another layer of refinement. He is, in many ways, a study in thoughtful balance.
Genetically, Fortune represents something truly invaluable. The diversity he contributes individually is profound. The equivalent to introducing SEVERAL unrelated German Shepherds, yet without the accompanying health risks. He carries no measurable risk for GSDIVA, bloat, EPI, or hip dysplasia. This is made possible by the Belgian Shepherd’s distinct lineage, which shares next to no shared history with the German Shepherds that were foundational to the creation of the Shiloh breed back in the 1960’s. In fact, Belgian Shepherds trace closer to Collie-type ancestry, offering a much needed fresh and beneficial genetic influence to the Shiloh gene pool.
Fortune is deeply rooted in excellence. His lineage includes exceptional dogs from Blackfyre Kennels, many of whom are currently excelling at the highest levels of the AKC show world. Their movement, their presence, their minds all reflect a legacy of thoughtful breeding. To incorporate a dog of this caliber into a program is both an honour and a responsibility.
Fortune’s first-generation offspring rose to not only meet, but often exceed the expectations laid out for them. They consistently met the Shiloh breed standard, both in structure and size. Notably, Flynt earned Grand Victor, achieving the highest conformation score among pure Shilohs that year. Judges have been drawn to the functional, fluid movement and refined structure this lineage brings forward.
Size and substance remained true as well, with females reaching 28 inches and 95 pounds, and males standing up to 29.5 inches and 103 pounds. While the first generation retained a touch of Belgian zest, this has already softened beautifully into more traditional Shiloh temperament by the second generation.
And what personalities they have become.
This line is producing deeply affectionate, family/owner-oriented dogs. The kind who seek connection, who lean in, who stay close. They are strikingly beautiful, yes, but it is their sweetness that leaves a lasting impression. These are dogs who genuinely want to be with their people… and yes, they will absolutely try to hold your hand.
I have personally fallen in love with what this line is becoming. We chose to keep not only an F1 daughter, Róka, but also welcomed an F2, Lemon, into our family last year. These genetics are something we are committed to continuing thoughtfully, as they help guide our lines ever closer to the vision set out by the breed’s founder over 30 years ago.
Because that is always the goal.
When new foundation lines are introduced, the intention is never to change the breed, only to support and strengthen it. When done with care, these additions enhance genetic diversity, improve health and longevity, and help ensure the breed standard can be met and maintained for generations to come.
Fortune is a dog I am incredibly proud to see in my girls’ pedigree. His influence is already meaningful, and I look forward with genuine excitement to what his descendants will continue to offer in the years ahead.
For those in or passing through the Maryland/Virginia area, Smith Andrew’s warmly welcomes visitors to come meet Fortune in person, along with his grandson, Wyzard. A special opportunity to experience this line firsthand.
And finally, a small note for those who may be watching this story unfold with interest: we currently have two litters of Fortune’s grandchildren on the ground. With larger-than-average litter sizes of twelve and ten, and there is some availability. The Wild Kennels litter in Victoria, BC just turned 8 weeks is ready to go home now, while the Kennels Brighton, Ontario litter will be ready after April 21st.
If you feel drawn to this line, I would be happy to connect.
https://shiloh-shepherd.com/health/projects/fortune/