80-120 lbs
28-31"
Turkey
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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
