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Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog originated in rural Turkey about 6,000 years ago to guard livestock and serve as a companion to shepherds. Large, powerful and possessive, this breed adores his family but can be suspicious of strangers. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has two coat varieties, Short and Rough, both which require little grooming. The breed does best with moderate exercise.

DID YOU KNOW? This breed is slow to mature, reaching adulthood at about 4 years of age.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Karabaş (Blackhead), Anatolian Blackhead (Anadolulu Karabaş), Kangal

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Giant dog
  • Heavy drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Guard dog. Barks, alerts and it's physically protective
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

Pet Card

  • Living Considerations: Good with children when properly trained, not hypoallergenic, not suitable for apartment living
  • Size: Large to Giant
  • Height: Males - 50 centimetres, Females - 69 centimetres
  • Weight: Males - 49 to 68 kilograms; Females - 36 to 55 kilograms
  • Coat: Medium
  • Energy: Medium
  • Colour: Fawn with black mask, pinto, white or brindle
  • Activities: Conformation, Herding
  • Indoor/Outdoor: Both

Personality

This breed's working history is still present today – he is naturally territorial, independent and highly intelligent. Because of the strong guarding instinct, early and ongoing socialisation and patient training is essential. Do ensure your garden is escape-proof with high possible double, fencing. Be sure to keep him occupied, as he may become destructive or problematic if bored.

History and Origins

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, also known as the Karabash, is an ancient breed descended from the Mastiff and flock-guarding dogs of the Middle East. Tall, athletic and powerful, they protected their wards against such fierce predators as bears and wolves. Now they are used for guarding flocks of sheep and goats in Turkey, where they are regarded as a national emblem and are called 'Coban Kopegi' (translated as 'Shepherd's Dog').

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