Last updated on February 11, 2023
The Anatolian Shepherd, also known as theAnatolischer Karabash, Coban Kopegi oder Karabash-Hund,It is a loyal, protective and independent dog.
Pastores Kangalthey are listed by the AKC as the same breed as Anatolian Shepherds, but are separate breeds according to the UKC.
If you want to learn more about Anatolian Shepherds and their origins, keep reading.
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Where did the Anatolian Shepherd come from?
The Anatolian Shepherd takes its name from Anatolia or Asia Minor. This area is a peninsula that has the Asian part of Turkey. So heTry Kopegiis turkish forGerman shepherd.
The Kangal dog was bred asherd guard,flocks of sheep Turkey kept this breed of dog for itself until the 1950s, before World War II, when the breed came to the United States.
The Ministry of Agriculture imported a breeding pair from Turkey to participateShepherd Project.However, when the war broke out, the dogs and their pups were scattered.
In the 1970ern den,Lieutenant Robert Ballard,The US Navy found a pair of Anatolian Shepherds while stationed in Turkey. He brought her back to the United States where they had a litter.
Thus, the dogs became active in theSpecies Protection Act (ESA)in the protection of wild animals and herds from certain predators. In addition, around 300 specimens of this breed were delivered to farmers in Namibia by theCheetah Conservation Fund (CCF)Protect livestock from cheetah attacks.
How did the Anatolian Shepherds originate? It is currently not known what breeds this Kangal dog consists of. However, the breed is of amastiff typeand possibly descended from dogsKazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has recognized the Anatolian Shepherd as part of theworkgroupIn1996.
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are rare these days, but there are plenty of other sheepdogs out there. Read our article on the differences.Types of sheepdogsLearn more.
What is an Anatolian Shepherd like?
So how can you tell what an Anatolian Shepherd looks like? these dogs arebig, strong and resistant.In general, this working dog is strong and has awell muscled bodywith a calm demeanor.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, this dog has a large skull that is proportionate to the body and an intelligent expression. Isthe ears are V-shaped,no higher than the plane at the head. HeThe muzzle is strong and blocky.
Esthe neck is muscular and slightly arched,Go to the top line that just appeared. In general, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog has a well-proportioned physique. Hethe tail is set high, long,and reaches the hocks.
Also, this dog hasmuscular shoulderswell developed, broad and sloping. Its front legs are long with strong, compact feet.
Hethe hindquarters are strongwith hind legs parallel to each other. The hind legs are also strong and compact.
How big is an Anatolian Shepherd?
Anatolian Shepherds are relatively large dogs. However, females are usually smaller and lighter than males.
AmasculineThe Anatolian Shepherd can grow29 inches(73.6 cm) height and weight110 and 150 pounds(49.8 to 68kg). Hefemalethis breed of dog can grow27 inches(68.5 cm) tall and weigh between80 and 120 pounds(36,2 a 54,4 kg).
You will know when your Anatolian Shepherd puppy ismadurowhen they reachthree years old.Large dogs take longer to grow and this particular breed reaches full maturity at the age of three.
Unfortunately, this dog will do much better in a home with a fenced-in backyard due to its size. However, sheit will not adapt well to living in an apartment.
What coat colors can an Anatolian Shepherd have?
Anatolian shepherd hat asmooth furthey may have longer hair on their necks. Also has onethick undercoatthat protects you from all weather. They usually have a short double coat that can be thick and dense.feathersit can also appear on the ears, feet, tail, and rump.
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs can come in a few coat colors. They are all accepted by the AKC. for example herscoat colorsmaybebiscuit and white, blue fawn,flownfawn, gray, fawn, liver, red, fawn, white,Ypinto.
In addition, they can also befawn to sable wolf with white or light chest and legs, fawn or dark fawn sometimes with white,oFawn with black muzzle.
You can also see this breed of dog with someskin tagsasblack mask, brown mask, Dutch insignia, pinto, pinto andblack mask, silver mask,oflatter withblack mask.
Are Anatolian Shepherds Good Family Pets?
If you're looking for a large breed to be a cuddle buddy for you, this dog might not be the right choice. Anatolian Shepherds will do best with experienced dog owners. Because? Because they areindependentand reserved. However, they arefell.
This dog is not particularly affectionate, but he still loves his family. Since they like to have alone time, they did.moderate game level.They'll enjoy an engaging game of fetch once in a while, but if it's their idea.
Anatolian Shepherds can be friendly when they want to, but it depends on the situation. If your Anatolian Shepherd has been raised with children and other dogs since he was a puppy, he will be fine. otherwise they arenot very fond of children or other dogs and animals.
Heguard dogthey will see their families as their "flock" and will protect them. This is one of the reasons why young children do not like him. This dog does not see children as "leaders" and will not know that they are part of the "pack".
Can this large breed be aggressive? The short answer is yes. this puppy isprotectortheir goods and possessions. Keeping this dog as a watchdog is not a good idea as they will become aggressive.
however withearlysocialization,then aggressive tendencies will subside. this dogdoes not get along with strangers, other dogs, cats, or other pets without proper socialization.
Since they are so independent, you can leave them home alone for a while. Sheno separation anxietybut it's never a good idea to leave your dog home alone all day.
If you leave him home alone, make sure the dog is inside. Anatolian Shepherds areexhaust artist.Even with a fenced yard, they will dig and climb their way out.
This breed is not a great barker, but they canbarking a lot at night.They will do so by monitoring the territory.
Anatolian Shepherds areintelligent.They may be easy to train, but they are not motivated to please you.obedience trainingit will serve them well, but at times they can be stubborn and too independent for their own good.
AKindergarten Dog ClassIt will be a great idea for your big dog. You will meet other people and dogs alike. They also learn some manners and get to know unknown places. It's great to be exposed to different places, people and smells.
How to care for your Anatolian Shepherd
No dog should be left outside for any length of time in any weather. However, Anatolian Shepherds cantolerate both hot and cold weather,thanks to its undercoat. Fortunately, Anatolian Shepherds are when it comes to caring forlow maintenance.
Train your Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd hasmoderate energy levels.Despite their herding background, they require moderate mental and physical stimulation.
unite the twolong walksper dayit will be enough for this dog. If one day he does not go out for that walk, it will be necessary to spend some time in the garden. Just make sure the fence is tall and sturdy so your dog can climb or jump over it.
Do Anatolian Shepherd Dogs Shed?
Unfortunately for allergy sufferers, Anatolian Shepherds arenot hypoallergenicThey have a double coat that sheds twice a year. During shedding season, you should brush your dog's coat daily to remove dead hair.
If not, you should brush their coat at least once a week to keep it clean and healthy.
This breed of dog is relative.easy to maintainif you can handle the skin. To keep your coat and skin clean and healthy, you need to do thisBathe your pup once every eight weeks or as needed.You can do it yourself or take them to a professional hairdresser.
Anatolian Shepherds may have oneSmell,and they can evensabbernfrom time to time. Since they love to dig, they can also get quite dirty. So you need regular baths.
Also, check your pup's ears regularly and keep them clean. Brush your dog's teeth regularly and trim its claws.
How much dog food should Anatolian Shepherds eat in a day?
Every dog is different. So if you're not sure what to feed your pup, be sure to talk to your vet. Together you can discuss the best diet for your dog.
In general, Anatolian herders should havequality snacks.Additionally, the food should be formulated for large breeds and age-appropriate for puppies, adults, or seniors.
Never feed your dog food scraps or human food. Some human foods are healthy and safe for dogs, but always consult your vet first.
What health problems do Anatolian Shepherds face?
Like other dog breeds, Anatolian Shepherds have health problems. Somehealthy conditionsyou may have to worryhip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia,hypothyroidism, von Willebrand disease, demodicosis,inflate,Yentropy.
Also, most are Anatolian Shepherds.sensitive to barbiturate anesthesia.So if your dog needs surgery, talk to your vet first.
Fortunately, you can get health exams or occasional tests likehip scores, elbow scores,or entropion tests.
However, tumors are the main cause of death for this large breed. If your Anatolian Shepherd Dog is relatively healthy, he will have an averageLife expectancyVon11 to 13 years.
Take your dog to the vet for regular checkups at least once or twice a year, and your dog will live a long, happy, and healthy life.
How much does an Anatolian Shepherd puppy cost?
you know heraverage litter sizethis breed of dog is treatedfive and ten puppies?
Although this is a rare breed of dog, if you can find someone who has a litter, you can be sure there is a pup out there for you. However, this pup may not come cheap.
The average cost of an Anatolian Shepherd puppy isin between$800 y $1,200.However, the price can be more or less depending on where you adopt the dog.
In general, you can expect to spend around $4,200 for your Anatolian Shepherd puppy's first year. After that, you can expect to earn around $2,000 each year.
The cost of owning an Anatolian Shepherd includesDog food, treats, a crate, dog bed, toys, toiletries, medical bills, dishes, collar, leash, food bowls, poop bags, cleaning supplies,and more.
It is best not to adopt an Anatolian Shepherd from puppy farms or pet stores. These places are often looking for profit rather than finding good homes for the puppies.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Breeder
Instead, you could search for arespected breeder of Anatolian Shepherd Dogs.A good breeder will want to improve the breed as a whole. In addition, their main objective is to find the puppies a good, happy and safe home.
If you find a good breeder, they can provide you with the pedigree and health history of the litter. They will want to meet with you in person to make sure you are a good match for the puppy.
Also, the breeder will not allow the puppies to leave their mother until they are at least eight weeks old. Puppies are also well socialized with people.
A great place to start looking for breeders is theAKC Market. You can also consult the breed club thatAnatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America.
Anatolian shepherds for adoption
Alternatively you can order your ownlocal animal sheltero oneBreed-specific rescue.These locations may not have Anatolian Shepherd puppies, but may have adults or seniors looking for good homes.
A great save to look at is thisNational Anatolian Shepherd Dog Rescue Network.
Also, they may haveAnatolian Shepherd Mixesinstead of thoroughbred. Finally, you can adopt a cross that has mixed traits from both parent breeds.
Are you curious about Anatolian Shepherd mixes?
Yes, Anatolian Shepherds can mix with other dog breeds. However, if you get a hybrid dog, that dog will share distinct physical and emotional traits from both parent breeds.
In other words, if you want an Anatolian Shepherd but need a more child-friendly puppy, you can look into a crossbreed.
Great Pyrenean Anatolian Shepherd Mix (Anatolische Pyrenäen)
First, we have them.Anatolian Pyrenees,This is a Great Pyrenean Anatolian Shepherd mix.
Another cattle herder, this mongrel will consider his family his herd. Furthermore, this particular hybrid alarge gentlemanforksGreat with children.This dog is also gentle and affectionate.
They will still need a lot of early socialization and training. Like the purebred Anatolian Shepherd, this hybrid isNothing for inexperienced dog owners.Also, this dog is very upkeep since they are constant shedders.
Anatolian Shepherd/Siberian Husky Mix
HeAnatolian Shepherd/Siberian Husky Mixit's a nice hybrid that will come close to either of the parent breeds. Siberian Huskies are friendly to everyone, including other dogs and strangers. However, like the Anatolian Shepherd, they are working dogs.
On the other hand, Huskies require much more exercise than Anatolian Shepherds. These dogs love to play and are affectionate with their humans. Also, they go out of their way to please their families as well.
You will most likely get a hybrid that iskind and intelligent.The training may or may not be challenging.
Labrador Retriever Anatolian Shepherd Mix
when it comes to themAnatolian Shepherd Labrador Retriever Mix,You may end up with a friendly, outgoing pup or a more reserved, independent dog. Unfortunately, these two purebreds are opposites, and your hybrid can look like either parent.
However, the crossroads could be somewhere in between. For example, they can be affectionate and eager to please when it comes to training. Or your pup may be affectionate but more stubborn when it comes to learning commands.
Regardless, this mixed breed is fun to have in your home as long as you are an experienced dog owner.
Golden Retriever Anatolian Shepherd Mix
HeAnatolian Shepherd Golden Retriever Mixhe is a lovely puppy. Golden Retrievers are friendly, intelligent, affectionate, and make great family pets. But unfortunately, he sounds the opposite of the Anatolian Shepherd.
Because of this, crossing these two purebreds may not result in the "perfect" breed of dog. your dog insteadresembles a specific parent breed.So this hybrid could be more like the Golden Retriever or the Anatolian Shepherd.
Regardless, early socialization and obedience training are a must for this cross.
German Shepherd Anatolian Shepherd Mix (Anatolian German Shepherd)
The German Shepherd and Anatolian Shepherd mix, also known asAnatolian German Shepherd,It is a mix of herding and protection dog. This hybrid is best suited for an experienced dog owner.
Training can be difficult.Also, this dog will not have separation anxiety, but can get bored easily. This can lead to destructive behavior. They need a lot of physical and mental stimulation.
If you can handle this hybrid and have experience handling and training dogs, then this is one fun-loving cross.
Should you get an Anatolian Shepherd?
There is a lot to love about this large breed. However, they are not for inexperienced dog owners.
Anatolian Shepherds are independent, reserved and protective. But sometimes they can become aggressive. Also, you need to make sure that they cannot escape the fenced yard by digging or climbing.
However, they are loyal and loving to their family. They also don't mind being home alone for too long.
So if you live with other adults or it's just you and you've owned a large breed of dog before, then you may want to consider bringing this dog home.
Have you ever owned an Anatolian Shepherd? Let us know in the comments below.
Further Reading: Breeds Similar to the Anatolian Shepherd
- Akita
- bernese mountain dog
- bullmastiff