Supperficially resembling a large wolf in some features, the breed is quite massive and "mastiffy" in certain regards, similar to the aforementioned Shiloh Shepherd, apart from not being as tall, as well as allowing for a greater variety of colors. The American Alsatian (Shepalute) is a strongly-boned and muscular dog, with a reasonably long back, a wide chest and sturdy legs. The large head is fairly wide, with a broad muzzle, strong jaws and moderately pendulous lips. The ears are relatively small and seen in a variety of types, although preferably fully erect. The nose must be black, but the eyes can be light, the preferred eye color being yellow for its wolf-like appearance.

The moderately short coat is thick, flat and rich, much fuller during the winter. All colors are accepted, including black-n-tan, fawn, gray and sable, with or without a black mask or small white markings, but the wolf-gray and wolf-brown are most valued. The average height is around 26 inches.

The name was changed by the governing board NAAC to the American Alsatian in January 2010.