Turkish Protector
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog originates from Anatolia, Turkey. Originally the breed was used for guarding flocks of sheep from predators and thieves. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is still used in its homeland as a guardian.
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs stand between 26-30 inches at the withers and weigh between 90-150 pounds, the females being smaller then the males. In Turkey their ears are often cropped very short, in the case of being attacked by wolves. Their tails only curl when they are alert; generally it hangs low with a slight curl upward. They have a short double coat, and the most common colors are fawn with a black mask. All colors are acceptable on the Anatolian Shepherd Dog and can include biscuit, white, brindle, gray, liver, or red, in a number of combinations.
It is often believed that the Anatolian Shepherd dog has existed in Turkey for as many as 6,000 years old. Several different “breeds” existed in different regions, including the Akbash and Kangal Dog, and therefore it is debated as to whether they are separate breeds or simply one in the same. Currently the Anatolian Shepherd Dog is the only breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but the Turkey government is fighting for international recognition of the other breeds through the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Anatolian Shepherd Dogs, as well as there cousins, are greatly prized for their abilities in Turkey. They often battle wolves when protecting their flocks as well as jackals and even bears. The first Anatolian Shepherd Dogs entered the United States in the 1950s.
Above all the Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a working breed. They are highly intelligent, independent, and highly protective. Anything that is part of its “flock”, which can include family members as well as other pets, will be fiercely protective if need be. This breed requires a dominant owner as well as proper socialization at a young age, however they will never be accepting of strangers. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is not a breed for the inexperienced owner.
