Anatolian Shepherd

80-120 lbs
28-31"
Turkey
Blackhead Karabaş, Anatolian Blackhead, Anadolulu Karabaş, Kangal, Coban Kopegi

Contrary to what its name might suggest, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog isn't a herding dog — this powerful pooch was bred to guard livestock from predators. Also known as the Kangal Shepherd Dog, the Anatolian is an ancient breed that originated in Turkey.

Today, the Anatolian every bit as brainy as they are brawny. They need a hearty dose of mental and physical stimulation to thrive. With a consistent approach to training and plenty of positive reinforcement, these headstrong hounds will make a "grrreat" addition to any family.

Is the Anatolian Shepherd Dog a good family dog? Are Anatolian Shepherds energetic or hard to train? Keep reading for answers to all your questions about this beautiful breed!

purpose Purpose
livestock guardian dog
history Date of Origin
1800 BC
ancestry Ancestry
mastiff-type

Anatolian Shepherd Health

Sketch of Anatolian Shepherd
Average Size
Male Anatolian Shepherd size stats
Height: 29-32 inches Weight: 110-140 lbs
Female Anatolian Shepherd size stats
Height: 28-31 inches Weight: 80-120 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
  • Tongue Tie
Minor Concerns
  • Entropion
  • Bloat
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Dental Disease
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Occasional Tests
  • Heart
  • Thyroid Tests
  • X-Rays
  • Eye Examination
  • Dental Examination

Anatolian Shepherd Breed History

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog was named after the region where they were said to have originated: Anatolia in central Turkey. The exact date of origin is unknown, but these majestic dogs are thought to date back to 2000 BCE. Experts believe this breed (or one closely related to it) is described in the Book of Job in the Bible.

For centuries, these dogs were virtually unknown outside of Turkey. This was no accident — Anatolians are so valuable to the Turkish that they were never exported to other countries. That changed in the 1930s, when a male and female Anatolian Shepherd Dog were brought to the US for a top-secret government program.

The Anatolian became more "pawpular" in the 1970s with the passing of the Endangered Species Act. This law protected animals that prey on livestock, like gray wolves, which meant that farmers were no longer allowed to kill them when defending their flocks. To fend off these predators without harming any endangered species, Anatolian Shepherd Dogs and other livestock guardians were deployed. The Anatolian Shepherd prefers not to fight predators but does have a fearlessness that allows them to face down a predator of any size and come away the victor.

Now, Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are seen across the globe, protecting livestock and providing peace of mind for farmers and ranchers. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1999 and are becoming more popular in the United States. They are currently ranked 90th among the breeds registered with the American Kennel Club.

Anatolian Shepherd Breed Appearance

Many people compare the Anatolian Shepherd Dog to the Kuvasz and the Great Pyrenees; however, the Anatolian is more slender and much more agile.

Their head is proportional to their body and their muzzle is most of the time black. Their lips are also black and will hang down slightly. Their ears are most often black and hang down in a triangular pattern with a rounded tip. The Anatolian Shepherd’s tail is set high and when it is relaxed will be carried low with a curl in the end that goes upward.

When alert, their tail will be carried high and will resemble a wheel. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog’s coat is short and rough. It is a double coat and will shed in the spring and summer months. Their coat is longer around their collar or neck region and the tail. The coat length will vary on the season and the dog’s bloodline. The Anatolian Shepherd has two basic coat types: medium long and medium.

Appearance of Anatolian Shepherd
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Anatolian Shepherd eyes
Brown
Nose Color Possibilities
black Anatolian Shepherd nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
white Anatolian Shepherd coat
White
brindle Anatolian Shepherd coat
Brindle
fawn Anatolian Shepherd coat
Fawn
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Anatolian Shepherd straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Anatolian Shepherd Breed Maintenance

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog will shed heavily twice a year and will require daily brushing during these times. Weekly brushing when they are not shedding is acceptable. Baths are rarely needed even though they mainly work with livestock. Brushing them generally helps remove any odor from their coats. Most owners who surrender their Anatolian Shepherd Dog to a dog pound or rescue group do so because the maintenance is more than they were expecting. Even though the Anatolian Shepherd has a shorter coat, it is a double coat and does require at least weekly attention to keep the shedding and matting to a minimum. Ears should be kept clean and dry to keep any infections from developing. Nails should be regularly trimmed, about once every two weeks. Teeth should be checked weekly and brushed often to prevent dental disease. Regular parasite checks are also necessary to ensure that your dog is parasite free.

Anatolian Shepherd Dogs often suffer from hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. Secure pet health insurance today to avoid high veterinary care costs. Our pet insurance tool lets you compare plans from leading companies like Figo and Spot. Find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!

Brushes for Anatolian Shepherd
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Comb
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Anatolian Shepherd requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Anatolian Shepherd Temperament

Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are alert, independent, and protective — while these are admirable traits, they can occasionally cause trouble. Because Anatolian Shepherds tend to be wary of strangers, early socialization is vital. However, due to their instinctual protectiveness, they'll generally form deep bonds with their humans. Household pets, on the other paw, are another story. Anatolian Shepherd puppies are more likely to bond with other pets, but adults may not get along as well with other four-legged housemates.

Unlike some dogs, Anatolian Shepherd Dogs aren't especially eager to please, which can make training difficult. Frequent training sessions and positive reinforcement will go a long way toward ensuring the Anatolian Shepherd grows up to be a well-mannered mutt. Pet parents who don't have much experience handling a strong-willed breed like the Anatolian may want to seek professional help from a certified dog trainer.

Anatolian Shepherd Activity Requirements

Despite their size and history as livestock guardians, Anatolian Shepherd Dogs aren't a "pawticularly" high-energy breed. A long walk or a good romp around a securely fenced yard each day should suffice.

Because the Anatolian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, you'll need to mix things up now and again to prevent boredom and undesirable behaviors. Provide an array of activities that stimulate your dog's mind as well as their body, like agility games, puzzle toys, and hide-and-seek. More vigorous activities, like swimming, can also help maintain muscle mass and heart health.

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
10 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
60 minutes
activity minutes

Anatolian Shepherd Popularity

Popularity ranking
#84
Popular Hybrids
Anatolian Pyrenees
Anatolian Shepherd
Great Pyrenees
Anatolian Pyrenees

Anatolian Shepherd Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
3 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.50 - $1.90
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$39.00 - $52.00
food bag monthly cost

Anatolian Shepherd Height & Weight

6 Months
Sketch of Anatolian Shepherd at six months
Male Anatolian Shepherd size stats at six months
Height: 19.0 inches Weight: 75.0 lbs
Female Anatolian Shepherd size stats at six months
Height: 18.0 inches Weight: 57.5 lbs
12 Months
Sketch of Anatolian Shepherd at 12 months
Male Anatolian Shepherd size stats at 12 months
Height: 23.0 inches Weight: 102.5 lbs
Female Anatolian Shepherd size stats at 12 months
Height: 22.0 inches Weight: 70.0 lbs
18 Months
Sketch of Anatolian Shepherd at 18 months
Male Anatolian Shepherd size stats at 18 months
Height: 30.5 inches Weight: 120.0 lbs
Female Anatolian Shepherd size stats at 18 months
Height: 29.5 inches Weight: 92.5 lbs

Top Anatolian Shepherd Breeders

Check out who made our list for the most reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeders of 2024.
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Alaturka Anatolians
Alaturka Anatolians
Chiefland, Florida
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Mystic Anatolians
Mystic Anatolians
Palmerton, Pennsylvania
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Marble Peaks Ranch
Marble Peaks Ranch
Etna, California
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Skyview Anatolians
Skyview Anatolians
Maidens, Virginia
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Karaboudjan Anatolians
Karaboudjan Anatolians
Valley Center, California
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Lost Armadillo Ranch
Lost Armadillo Ranch
Davis Creek, California
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Carpe Diem Anatolians
Carpe Diem Anatolians
Palm Beach, Florida
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Gerlach Ranch Anatolians
Gerlach Ranch Anatolians
Napa, California
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Sakarya Anatolian Shepherds
Sakarya Anatolian Shepherds
Alpine, California
Top Anatolian Shepherd breeder Chevaliers Du Roland
Chevaliers Du Roland
Miami, Florida

Anatolian Shepherd Owner Experiences

Shelton
6 Weeks
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Explore the woods
Walk
Playing outside
We just got our Anatolian and he’s is the sweetest dog ever! He’s fairly young at 6 weeks but he’s been quick to learn potty routines and is adapting to his new family extremely well!
2 years, 10 months ago
Necia
1 Year
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
my very first dog that i have with my family
3 years, 1 month ago
BISS GCH Eiserntor AA Mustafa At Turkay
13 when he passed away
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Amazing dogs; usually smarter than their humans ...
7 years, 2 months ago
Comar Cevik (Kevlar)
7 Years
1 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Kevvie died at age 7 due to auto-immune disease. He was excellent with children, strangers, other dogs but he could go from zero to business on the 2 occasions he thought it necessary. He was socialized extensively in order to achieve this. He was superb.
7 years ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Herding
Walk
Play
Run
Wrestle
My most recent Australian Shepherd was a beefy guy named Tank. Tank was a really easy to walk Aussie. I think you would be hard pressed to find one of these dogs that was actually difficult or had a sour personality. Australian Shepherds are quite honestly about as human-like as it gets for canines. They are shockingly (if not terrifyingly) smart, incredibly loyal, highly energetic, and definitely affectionate. I used to own an Aussie a few years back and can attest to all of these qualities. They will easily learn words even outside of voice commands. You could practically have a conversation with an Aussie and they will react to every single word as if they completely understood English. More on my walk with Tank, he was extremely well behaved, knew exactly where he wanted to go, and was friendly to every other person and animal we came across. These traits are common with all Aussies. There are no negative things about owning or walking Australian Shepherds, and I openly admit my bias with that statement. Be warned about shedding. Aussies will shed an astonishing amount of hair. I accept any and all walks with Australian Shepherds that I can. Can you tell that they are my favorite?
6 years, 11 months ago
4 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Jogging
Fetching
Running
The Anatolian Shepherd that I walked was super energetic so he and I decided to go for a swift jog instead making it about 2.5 miles in 30 minutes. We had a ton of fun and I as quick to see that he had wonderful capabilities to learn, take-in, and listen to what you are saying. He knew commands like sit, stay, roll-over, heal, go, and stop. His owner worked with him very well, though this dog's breed is the primary reason for him being so savvy. When we got back, I had him sit while I wiped his paws down, with no complaints -- mind you -- and he did a few tricks for some treats before I left! All in all, it was a wonderful experience and I'd highly recommend this breed to anyone.
6 years, 11 months ago
12 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Laying in the sun
I walk a Anatolian Shepherd who is very, very old for a large breed. He barks when he sees me and it can be scary because its deep and loud but I know he's happy to see me. The first time I heard his bark it was a little intense. He needs help getting up because he can barely do it himself. He drags his back feet one at a time. He seems to be in good spirits for being so old and he seems to really enjoy our walks. He doesn't pay attention to other dogs or people, he doesn't care for outside attention. He needs to stop often and or lay down because he can handle so much. He loves getting pet while he lays there gaining his energy back. Something about this gentle giant is so special. Being around him brings me lots of joy and peace. He is a comforting soul. I wish I met him when he was younger, I wonder what he was like. ALSO, he is VERY strong, even has weak as his legs seem, he can pull.
6 years, 11 months ago
Scarlett
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We got her to play with our German Shepard that is the same age, because our Doberman was too old to play anymore. Found her on Craigslist for 100 bucks to good home. When we got her home we could tell she was never shown affection or much interaction with people. It took several months for her to trust us but her and our other dogs got along within a week. Her and the German Shepard are best of friends and she is so loving towards us. She waits for me by the driveway gate every night when I get off work. She will walk in front of me and flop over for her belly rubbin. Makes the work day melt away. While I type this she is sitting next to me trying to get me to pet her. Also she is very watchful of our property and doesn't bark very often but when she does, you take notice. She is a wonderful dog and I'm glad to share our lives together.
5 years, 5 months ago
Boyd
3 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Our dog is a working dog. He is the livestock guardian for our cows and goats. He is very protective of our livestock and of myself.
5 years, 3 months ago
Raylan
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Raylan is a working dog. He is a livestock guardian for our cows and goats.
5 years, 3 months ago
Duke
1 Year
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We have had Duke since he was very small. He was the only one in the litter that showed any interest in us. We got him from a friend’s farm. He loves people and other dogs. He’s super stubborn he knows what we are telling him it just depends if he chooses to listen. It has been a challenge with his barking though. He is an excellent companion but loves being outside most of the times. It’s a good thing we live with a green space which includes a creek behind our house because it gives him plenty to watch.
4 years, 7 months ago
Rone
15 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She’s 50% Anatolian, 25% Dutch Shepherd and 25% German. Had never heard of the breed before getting her. At 15 months, she’s bigger than our male German Shepherd who’s fully grown. Brindle colored and very slender. Stubborn and required quite a bit of correction to get her to even be semi-obedient. When bored as a puppy she was on the destructive side but seems to have outgrown it. Booming bark even for a female, very perimeter protective and alerts at even the smallest sound or movement. Deeply loyal to her family and extremely distrustful to any person outside her inner circle. Needs to be muzzled at the vet.
4 years, 3 months ago
Bartholomew
11 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing Ball
Hiking
He was adopted from the humane society and despite the fact he had never been worked with, he’s training well and super affectionate and gentle.
4 years ago
Zema
8 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I got her from a friend she was found on the side of a busy highway her pads were rough and dry I assume from walking in the hot Texas heat I originally thought she was half shepherd half lab but I quickly learned she is an Anatolian shepherd she is VERY affectionate and VERY protective she loves to gently bite my feet as I walk I assume to herd me lol. She loves cold weather rain and digging holes. Her favorite thing to do is go to the dog park on Saturday and the local pet shop for her weekly treat. I think she may have been abused as if she is chewing on something she shouldn't if I reach to get it she flinched but she is slowly coming around and is now a permanent part of our family. I enjoy coming home after work to her everyday
3 years, 10 months ago
Daisy
6 Months
3 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We got Daisy at the local shelter when she was just 6 weeks old.. We had no idea she was an Anatolian until I was reading over her papers that were left in her folder from the shelter. She’s half black lab half Anatolian Shepard. We love in a very large apartment and she does really well. Daisy has taken a liking to a few families in our building. She remembers anyone she has met previously which always shocks me. She has a very sweet demeanor but loves to keep my arm in her mouth and bring me everywhere with her. As she has grown ( now 6 months) she has become a great addition to our family. She is very protective and loving to her human boy. I’ve had many different breeds but never this one. So far she has been a blessing to our family.
3 years, 10 months ago
Holly
4 Years
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking the property line to look for intruders
It is indicated in the article that Anatolians will not respect small children. However, Anatolians are known for being quite gentle with children. They will guard children and treat them like precious livestock.
3 years, 6 months ago
Abbey
2 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I picked her up from a busy 4 lane highway and I think she would rather be with other dogs and probably kids. I will keep her till I can find a forever home that she would live.
3 years, 6 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - My pet
Question

Anatolian Shepherd is a dog I have we have had him 5 years we live out. My question is with this snow and ice that has hit us in Texas . my Anatolian Shepherd wants to stay out in it tonight will me about 20 degrees the other day was the first time in my life I saw 0 degrees he dose stay out at night a lot or he can come in the house. Can they really take exstream cold . is it ok to let him stay out in it at night? Thank you Charles Mahoney.

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

We are considering purchasing a 2yo Anotolian Shepherd. I am told she is a good girl but is food protective with other dogs. We have two female labs currently and a male Anotolian Shepherd that the Shepherd grew up with. Wondering what thoughts are if she will assimilate, will she accept us as her owners

Answer
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd