Anatolian Shepherd Dog
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 Description:
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a powerful
and impressive guardian breed which originated
in Anatolia, Turkey likely 6,000 years ago. Turkish
breeders claim a cross between the Turkish Kangal
Dog and the Akbash Dog resulted in the Anatolian.
This highly intelligent, hardworking and fiercely
protective large dog was bred to guard livestock
from predators such as wolves, jackals and bears.
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs make a good companion
and does well with children, but this depends
on socialization and training beginning at an
early age. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is suspicious
of strangers, therefore a proper introduction
is needed.
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog did not arrive into
the United States until the 1950s. Throughout
the years, this ancient breed's most favored traits
remain the same - hardiness, loyalty, and independence.
Height:
The height of an Anatolian Shepherd Dog is between
29-30 inches (74-76 cm). Dogs are taller than
females.
Weight:
The weight for the Anatolian Shepherd Dog is between
110-150 pounds (50-68 kg.) Dogs weigh more than
bitches.
Coat Type:
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has two basic
coat types: medium length and medium long (from
one inch to 4 inches). Short or rough double coat;
outer coat is smooth. The length varies and depends
on the season and the dog's lineage. The coat
is thicker and longer at the neck and mane. Grooming
maintenance is minimal and only requires weekly
brushing to keep the coat in good shape. Thorough
brushings are necessary during heavy shedding
seasons twice a year.
Color:
The coat of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog can be
any color or length. All patterns / markings are
acceptable.
Temperament:
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is intelligent and
extremely protective. It is a leader, loyal and
easy to train. This breed is not best suited for
a first time dog owner or one who is shy. Training
should be done in a consistent, confident and
fair manner and it is very important to start
as early as possible. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs
learns quickly, but can be stubborn and choose
not to obey. The owner should be firm, consistent,
and a patient leader - Anatolian Shepherd Dogs
are sensitive to reprimands. The Anatolian Shepherd
Dog is patient and protective of children; it
is also protective of other animals in the house.
His protective instinct grows stronger as it matures.
Despite being called a shepherd, these dogs were
never used as herders, but always as protector
of livestock against predators. Anatolian Shepherd
Dogs needs daily exercise and a large backyard
is desirable while apartment living is not recommended.
Health Problems:
A health survey completed in 2004 by the UK Kennel
Club revealed the median life span of the Anatolian
Shepherd Dog is 10.75 years. The survey also indicated
the leading causes of death were cancer (22%),
"combinations" (17%), cardiac (13%),
and old age (13%).
Special Interests:
• Anatolian Shepherd Dogs were once used
as combat dogs in war and for hunting big game.
• Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are capable of
enduring extremes of heat and cold.
• There are over 3000 Anatolian Shepherd
Dogs registered in the United States.
Classifications:
AKC: Working Dog Group
ANKC: Utility Group 6
CKC: Flock Guard
FCI: Group 2 Section 2 Molossoid breeds
KC: Pastoral Group
UKC: Guardian Dog Group
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