Group: Working
Origins: This breed is from modern day Turkey. They were bred to guard flocks or sheep, goats, or cattle from predators. There is evidence of this dog dating back to 2000 BCE
Weight: 110-150 lbs (male), 80-120 lbs (female)
Height: 74–81 cm (male), 71–79 cm (female)
Lifespan: 10-13 years
Coat: Thick and short double-layered fur that is weather resistant. They shed throughout the year, but the amount varies depending on the season.
Colors: White, brindle, brown, fawn, blue fawn, red fawn, gray fawn, white and biscuit. Black markings are on their face.
Tail: Long and fluffy that loops over their back
Ears: V-shaped
Health: Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, mild birth defects, bloating, sensitivities to anesthesia, and skin allergies.
Barking: They are known to bark
Environment: Anatolian Shepherds need a fenced yard to give them an area to protect. The environment should be calm with predictable routines.
Popularity: As of 2023, they were ranked number 82 in popularity by the American Kennel Club. They have been growing in popularity.
Family Friendly? Yes, they are good in families with older children and people who have previous dog owning experience. It is typically best if they are the only animal in the household unless introduced to other pets from a young age.
Temperament: Independent, protective, territorial, loyal, smart. This type of dog is not known to be cuddly and can be weary of unfamiliar people.
Training: Difficult
Care: This dog needs to be socialized starting at a young age. Owners need to allow them plenty of personal space. Exercise and brushing should be done regularly.
Hypoallergenic: NO
Other Names: Kangal Shepherd Dog, Kangal, Karabash, Anadolu KoPek, Anatolian Blackhead, Coban Kopegi, Turkish Guard Dog, Turkish Sheepdog
Famous Anatolian Shepherds:
- An Anatolian Shepherd had a large role in a 2001 movie called Cats and Dogs. His name was Butch and was voiced by Alec Baldwin.
- Bart was the Anatolian Shepherd in the film, Kate and Leopold. Two dogs named Noah and Moses played the role.
More Facts:
- There is records of this dog dating all the way back to 2000 B.C.
- Scholars believe that the Anatolian Shepherd was the type of dog described in the Bible, Book of Job.
- This dog breed did not come to the United States until the late 1930s.
- Due to their protection abilities, this breed has saved animals from going extinct, including cheetahs in Namibia.
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Big Book of Dog Breeds
Non-Fiction🐕Purebred dogs listed from A to Z.🐩 Readers will learn all about over 100 different types of dogs ranging from large breeds like the Saint Bernard and small breeds like the Yorkshire Terrier. The breeds included in this book will be both popular...
