Anatolian Shepherd breed information

Anatolian Shepherd and Anatolian Shepherd pictures

The Anatolian Shepherd is a shepherd's guard dog of ancient lineage; probably descended from the large hunting dogs existing in Mesopotamia. The breed has evolved over the ages to suit a specific set of circumstances. Of these, the most formative are the climate (hot and very dry summers; very cold winters), the people's lifestyles (from settled to semi- and wholly nomadic), and the work assigned to the dogs. They guard flocks travelling great distances on the Central Anatolian Plateau, staying out through all weather conditions.

Anatolian Shepherd

Life expectancy: 12 - 15 Years
Color: All colors, but most desired is solid cream to fawn with black mask and ears.
Eyes: medium-sized, almond shaped, dark brown to light amber
Coat type: The breed is double-coated. The outer coat is short or half-long and dense. The undercoat is thick. The coat is longer and thicker at the neck, shoulders and thighs. It tends to be longer in winter. There are great variations in length, influenced by climate.
Size: male: from 29 inches; female: from 27 inches
Health issues: Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism.

The Anatolian Shepherd is a native to Asia Minor, and is a natural sheep herder and protector of animals. It is commonly found to be a shepherd's companion, and has historically lived outside year round. Native to the Anatolian Plateau, the dog fares well in every season whether it is from exceptionally hot summers to very dry and bitter cold winters. The ancestors of this dog were often used as combat dogs or for hunting. They became particularly valuable for many battles with wolves, and some were raised to be fight dogs. These dogs do not tend to fatigue easily, and can maintain their strength, form, and mental alertness even during bad weather. They are closely related to the Kangal Dog, and have often been coined a Turkish shepherd. Many are from the Sivas-Kangal region, and the isolated conditions there have often resulted in a distinct breed. The truly Turkish Kangal Dogs continue to be working shepherds but exports of these dos has not become forbidden. The Kangal Dog Club of America works with various traders to ease import restrictions as these are considered to be a very important contribution to the genetic pool in the United States and other parts of the western world.

The Anatolian Shepherd is very loyal and is commonly used as a guardian dog. Highly intelligent and easy to train, these dogs are very quick at picking up new skills and are generally not a suitable fit for beginners. These dogs need an owner who is a natural leader and can control and guide the dog to appropriate behaviors as needed. These dogs are naturally calm, brave, watchful, independent, and self-assured; they are not aggressive, but can be suspicious of strangers. They are often very affectionate with their own family, but strangers will need to be introduced to them formally in order to be accepted. Since the Anatolian Shepherd is naturally guarded, they can also become very possessive. In a home or porperty setting, this allows them to keep careful watch on the grounds and will ensure that the family or property owner knows when a stranger is in the area. The dogs are fairly friendly with people in general, unless they have suspicion to be otherwise. The dog is demanding of itself, and can sometimes be dominant or stubborn.

When training, it is important to begin as early as possible and use motivational training methods on a consistent basis. A loving approach fares well with these dogs and they are more likely to correct their behaviors in a safe, secure, and loving environment. A fully grown dog can become too strong to be corrected and may not listen to the owner's requests. These dogs are very sensitive to reprimands but they are always eager to receive affection. They are patient and protective of their owners, children, and loyal to their families. They are natural protectors and do not require extra protection training. They can get along with many types of animals but tend to take a dominant role with other dogs.