The Anatolian Shepherd dog has its roots in Asia Minor and serves as a shepherd’s companion and helps in protecting sheep.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Asia Minor
Used for: Fight, Guard, Companion
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Color: White and tan
Coat: Short and hard
Average Height: 28-30 inches
Average Weight: 100-150 pound
Group: Flock Guard
History and Domestication
This dog is native to Asia Minor. Their ancestors were used as combat dog centuries ago.
The breed was particularly valued for its fights with wolves. The Turks would put a spiked color on them to avoid their necks being bitten by predators who very likely to attack.
The breed is still used a sheep dog and as it is closely related to Kangal Dog, many people believe them to be same breed. The dog was recognized by AKC in 1995.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The breed requires a very little grooming. They shed twice a year and that is when they need thorough brushing. Rest of the year doesn’t demand much attention. This dog is seasonal but heavy shedder.
The Anatolian Shepherd needs a lot of exercise. They do best when allowed to run free in a fenced yard but still need to be taken for long daily walks. They breed does best with a job at hand. The breed is prone to hip dyslexia and eyelid entropion. Their immunity also takes a lot of time develop.
Care, Grooming and Health
The breed requires a very little grooming. They shed twice a year and that is when they need thorough brushing. Rest of the year doesn’t demand much attention. This dog is seasonal but heavy shedder.
The Anatolian Shepherd needs a lot of exercise. They do best when allowed to run free in a fenced yard but still need to be taken for long daily walks. They breed does best with a job at hand. The breed is prone to hip dyslexia and eyelid entropion. Their immunity also takes a lot of time develop.
Living Conditions
This breed isn’t suited for apartment life as they are active indoors and do better with a large yard. The breed needs a secured and fenced yard as it is very suspicious of strangers.
Temperament
The Anatolian shepherd has a superior sense of sight and hearing. The dog is very loyal, alert and can achieve good speed and endurance. The dog is easy to train but is by no means, meant for beginners. Since he is a born flock dog, it is only obvious that he will be watchful and protective but can also become possessive; hence it needs to be kept below humans. The dog is very suspicious of strangers.
