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Anatolian Shepherd Dog Breed Introduction
Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a livestock guardian Dog from Turkey. However, in its native Country, the term”Anatolian Shepherd” is not popular. This made the FCI to change the breed’s standard in 2018 to Kangal Shepherd Dog. AKC recognizes Kangal and Anatolian Shepherds as the same breed. Some Turkish breeders describe Anatolian Shepherds as mixed dog breeds of all Turkish livestock guardian dogs. The UK Kennel Club has recognized Kangal as a separate breed since July 2012. However, it also stated that dogs registered under Anatolian Shepherds may be eligible if they are recognized under the name Turkish Kangal dogs instead.
Most international governing bodies for dog breeds have came to the conclusion that there are no significant enough genetic differences between Anatolian Shepherds and Kangals to be recognized as separate breeds. Anatolian Shepherds are slightly shorter as compared with the Kangals. Even though, Kangals have a slightly less dense and shorter coat than Anatolians. Both Kangals and Anatolian Shepherds have a lifespan of at least ten years. Although the former can live up to the age of 15 years while the latter may have a life expectancy of up to 13 years.
Anatolian Shepherd Origin | History
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs were bred in Anatolia in Central Turkey. This breed was created to guard a flock. Anatolian Shepherds lived a nomadic life with their owners as they travelled greater distances across the Central Anatolian Plateau. These dogs lived outdoors throughout the year in the freezing winters and hot summers. Therefore, Anatolian Shepherds were developed to be agile, loyal to his owner, and hardy to survive the harsh weather conditions. Ancient artifacts such as Assyrian bas-relief carving and early books of the Bible depict large dogs recognizable as Anatolian Shepherds.
The history of Anatolians in America started before World War II when a breeding pair was imported in Turkey by the Department of Agriculture to participate in the top secret, sheepdog project that had the aim of finding the best sheepdog breeds on American sheep pastures. However, with the outbreak of war and scarcity of food to feed the huge appetite, Anatolian Shepherds and their offspring were dispersed
Importation of Anatolians after World War II was done by American Ranchers in the 1950s. However, this breed took hold in the USA in the 70s. Lieutenant Robert Ballard, a US Navy is credited for firmly establishing the breed. He acquired a pair while he was stationed in Turkey. Lieutenant Robert bred his first litter in 1970 after bringing the pair home. Therefore, providing a foundation stock for American breeders.
At the time, the breeding activity coincided with the passage of the Endangered Species Act which required ranchers to control the population of wolves without killing them. Therefore, Anatolians were especially suited for the job since they would rather intimidate predators than fight them. Currently, Many Anatolian Shepherds are employed as ranch dogs to protect everything including llamas, ostriches, goats, and sheep.
Anatolian Shepherd Lifespan
Reportedly, Anatolian Shepherds have a lifespan of 11 to 13 years.
Anatolian Shepherd Intelligence Ranking
Professor of Canine Psychology, Stanley Coren ranks the Anatolian Shepherds not the most intelligent dog breed since they are not easy to train. They were also described to learn new commands and tricks after 70 to 80 trials.
Anatolian Shepherd Grooming
This is a double coated breed that sheds at moderate levels all-year round and heavily twice a year while blowing off the coat. Quick weekly brushing is recommended to keep the coat looking healthy and glossy. However, during the heavy shedding season thorough brushing is recommended at least thrice a week if not daily using a short-bristle brush and a comb. Regular brushing helps to remove visible dirt and remove dead hair. While brushing the coat, pay special attention around the neck and mane where the fur is longer to prevent matting.
Anatolian Shepherds are outdoor dogs that require a bath every 6 to 8 weeks using a mild dog shampoo and conditioner. Always brush the coat before bathing to remove dirt and loose hair. After a bath, thoroughly rinse off the grooming products from the coat using lukewarm water to avoid skin irritation. Wipe the face using canine friendly wipes or a clean damp washcloth instead of soapy water that irritates the eye.
Nail clipping is recommended every twice a month using nail clippers or grinder. Overly grown nails make walking and running painful for an Anatolian. Brush the teeth of Anatolian Shepherds at least twice a week if not daily using a dog-formulated toothpaste and toothbrush to remove excess tartar that cause bad breathe. Clean the ears on a weekly basis using an ear cleanser solution and cotton balls to remove excess wax, dirt, or debris.
Anatolian Shepherd Shedding
An Anatolian Shepherd sheds throughout the year at moderate levels and heavily in spring and Fall when experiencing seasonal change.
Anatolian Shepherd Coat
This breed has a double coat consisting of a thick undercoat and a rough top coat that may be 4 inches in length.
Anatolian Shepherd Hypoallergenic
Anatolian Shepherds are not hypoallergenic dogs. This is because they shed throughout the year at moderate levels and heavily during spring and fall. Shedding allows the spread of dander and hair around the house which aggravates allergies.
Anatolian Shepherd Training
An Anatolian Shepherd is a territorial and protective breed that is aloof of strangers. To raise a well-adjusted and well-mannered canine citizen ensure the dog is extensively socialized. This training starts from an early age of 3 weeks while an Anatolian puppy is with the breeder until the age of 16 weeks when the pup is in its new home. Owners normally take their puppies home from the age of 8 weeks. Therefore, it is crucial to get a puppy from a responsible breeder who will prove that he or she has been socializing the puppies.
To socialize an Anatolian Shepherd, expose it to a wide variety of animals, people, surfaces, situations, places, smell, experiences, sights, and sounds such as baby crying sounds, lawn mowers, sirens, vacuum cleaners, whistles, and washing machines. Enrolling an Anatolian Shepherd in a puppy class from the age of 8 weeks will also serve as a form of socialization. Puppy classes provide a controlled environment where dogs can interact. These classes also enables the pet parents to not only identify and correct bad habits but also have access to information and assistance needed when training this breed.
Anatolian Shepherds were bred to work independently while guarding the flock and make decisions on his own. Therefore, teaching this breed to respond to commands might be a challenge. However, use of positive reinforcement methods such as use of treats, toys, and clicker training will help with obedience training. Clicker training utilizes a clicking sound immediately the dog completes the issued command. The pooch is then given a treat. Some of the basic commands that an Anatolian may learn include come, lie down, stay, heel, leave it, sit, etc. one at a time until the dog understands before proceeding to the next command word. Avoid uttering the command words when you are too frustrated or excited since they won’t sound the same for your pet.
Keep the training sessions short and fun distributed throughout the day for a span of 10 to 15 minutes. For effective housebreaking, creating a feeding schedule, potty training, and crate training is key to success. A crate is an invaluable tool that eases potty training since it allows the Anatolian owner to monitor the dog for signs that it wants to eliminate such as whining, sniffng, circling, restlessness, trying to lift a leg against the crate, and squatting.
For positive outcomes when potty training, ensure you take the puppy to the designated toilet area immediately it wakes up, 20 minutes after meals and drinks, every 2 to 3 hours until the age of 8 months when the potty breaks are after every 6 to 8 hours, after naptime, before bedtime, and after an exciting activity such as playing and car ride. AKC cautions against training Anatolians as guard dogs or for protection training.
Anatolian Shepherd Temperament | Personality
- Independent.
- Protective.
- Loyal.
- Patient.
- Responsive.
- Intelligent.
- Adaptable.
- Devoted.
- Loving.
- Calm.
- Observant.
- Alert.
- Courageous.
- Aloof with strangers.
Anatolian Shepherd Exercise
This breed requires moderate amount of exercise on a daily basis. Playing or running in a tall strong fenced yard that has a locked gate is recommended. Long walks once or twice a day will keep this breed healthy and happy. However, an Anatolian Shepherd should always be kept on a leash whenever he is taken out of the home.
Anatolian Shepherd Barking
This is a vocal breed that was bred to guard livestock in Turkey. Anatolian Shepherds are protective and aloof of strangers and will bark at dogs and animals that he doesn’t recognize as well as strangers.
Anatolian Shepherd Height
Male Anatolian Shepherds have a height of 29 inches ( approx. 74 cm ) while their female counterparts have a height of 27 inches ( approx. 69 cm ).
Anatolian Shepherd Weight
Female Anatolian Shepherds have a weight of between 80 to 120 pounds ( approx. 36 to 54 kg ) while their male counterparts have a weight of 110 to 150 pounds ( approx. 50 to 68 Kg ).
Anatolian Shepherd Size
This is a large-sized livestock guardian dog. However, a female Anatolian is slightly smaller than a male Anatolian in terms of height and weight. Female Anatolians have a weight of 80 to 120 pounds ( approx. 36 to 54 kg ) and a height of 27 inches ( approx. 69 cm ) while the male counterparts have a weight of 110 to 150 pounds ( approx. 50 to 68 Kg ) and a height of 29 inches ( approx. 74 cm ).
Anatolian Shepherd Aggressive
Naturally, an Anatolian Shepherd is wary of strangers, protective, and territorial. Therefore, socialization training is essential with the aim of preventing aggressive behaviors.
Anatolian Shepherd Bite Force
An Anatolian Shepherd is almost similar to a Kangal when it comes to physical characteristics. Although, an Anatolian is slightly smaller in terms of height and weight. Kangals possess a bite force of 743 PSI. Therefore, Anatolian Shepherds may have a bite force of between 600 to 700 PSI.
Anatolian Shepherd Health Issues
This is a relatively healthy and hardy breed. However, it is susceptible to bloat or gastric torsion since it is a large deep-chested dog. Bloat is a life-threatening condition that causes stomach swelling. To avoid this condition, Anatolian owners should not feed this dog one large meal a day, allow the dog to drink large amounts of water after eating, or even vigorously exercise the dog one hour before or after meals. Other health conditions that Anatolians suffer from include hip dysplasia, entropion, ear infection, hypothyroidism, elbow dysplasia, and demodex mange. This dog can also be sensitive to anesthesia.
Anatolian Shepherd Names
Owners may decide to get names for their Anatolian Shepherds puppies before they join them home from the shelter or a few days after coming home in order to understand the personality of the dog. Pet parents may get name inspirations from the Turkish origin, coat color, personality of the dog, celebrity Anatolian Shepherds, music, book, songs, nature, and historical figures.
Regardless of where they get their inspiration, they should ensure that the name freely rolls of their tongue and won’t make them embarrassed if uttered out loud in the public places. Anatolians and other dog breeds better understand names that have vowels. Avoid giving your pet a name that rhymes with the command words to avoid confusion.
If the Anatolian parent settles with a long name, he or she should ensure they find a cute nickname for the dog. If a pet shares a name with the household member or guests who frequent you home, it may be confusing for the dog. Some of the names that Anatolian Shepherds have include:
- Cetin.
- Kara.
- Van.
- Ela.
- Loca.
- Azma.
- Wyatt.
- Amos.
- Dora.
- Zeya.
- Avi.
- Leyla, etc.
Anatolian Shepherd Speed
An Anatolian Shepherd Dog may run up to a speed of 35 miles per hour ( approx. 56 km/h ).
Anatolian Shepherd Collar
This is a large-sized dog that may weigh up to 150 pounds. If it pulls while on a leash, it will injure the shoulder and back of the owner. It is crucial to teach this breed proper leash manners. Although, walking a dog in a harness gives the owner better control over the dog. Anatolian Shepherds use a wolf collar that has elongated spikes to protect the dog against the wolves when guarding the flocks.
Anatolian Shepherd Food
The amount of food that Anatolians feed on depend on the age, metabolism, weight, and activity level. Puppies tend to have a high metabolism rate as compared to adult and senior dogs. Therefore, a pup feeds 3 or 4 times a day from when they start weaning until the age of 6 months. From the age of 6 months, Anatolian dogs feed a total amount of 2 meals a day for life. This breed is also prone to gastric torsion or bloat. Therefore, owners should not feed this dog one large meal, exercise them vigorously one hour before or after exercise, or even allow them to take large amounts of water.
Anatolian Shepherds are also conservative eaters that don’t do well with commercial foods that are high in protein. In its native Turkey, this breed feeds mainly on a vegetarian diet. Depending on the budget and the available time of preparation, pet parents may feed their dogs with raw diet, home made food, dry food, or wet commercial food. Owners who prefer feeding their pets with commercial foods should supplement the diet with cottage cheese, cooked rice, Vitamin C, and cooked Chicken or choose a commercial produced holistic diet.
Apart from Anatolian Shepherds, other breeds of dogs include:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Pug.
Anatolian Shepherd Colors
The most common coat color is fawn with a black mask. However, some Anatolians may have a brindle, white, or pinto colors.
Anatolian Shepherd Allergies
This breed is susceptible to various forms of allergies as discussed below;
Food allergies – Although rare, Anatolian Shepherds may suffer from a true food allergy that results to an immune response which is accompanied with skin issues symptoms such as hives, dermatitis, and lesions as well as gastrointestinal stress such as acute vomiting and diarrhea. This breed may also suffer from food intolerance.
Contact allergies – This allergy affects the breed once the allergen comes in contact with the skin. Some of the contact allergens that affect Anatolians include plastics, grooming products, carpet cleaning detergents, lawn chemicals, bed linens, latex, and certain medications.
Skin allergies – An Anatolian is predisposed to skin allergies due to food, contact, and environmental allergies that also affect the skin. Commonly affected body parts include paws, belly sides, muzzle, ears, feet, groin, back, and eyes.
Environmental allergies – One of the environmental allergens, flea, cause flea allergy dermatitis that affect the back legs and underneath the tail resulting to excessive scratching, biting, and licking. Other allergens include grass, pollen, ragweed, trees, mites, dust and dust mites, and house molds.
Anatolian Shepherd Tail
An Anatolian has long furred tail reaching the hocks.
Anatolian Shepherd Teeth
At birth, Anatolian puppies are born with no teeth. However, the deciduous teeth comes in from the age of 2 to 3 weeks until the dog has a total of 28 milk teeth at the age of 6 or 8 weeks. From the age of 12 weeks, the deciduous teeth start falling out as the permanent teeth grow beneath them. At the age of 6 to 8 months, Anatolian Shepherds should have a total of 42 permanent teeth.
Are Anatolian Shepherds Aggressive
Anatolian Shepherds are naturally protective of their families and flock. They are also wary of strangers which makes socialization training essential to prevent aggressive behaviors towards strangers and other animals.
Are Anatolian Shepherds Good Guard Dogs
Yes. Anatolian Shepherds make excellent guard dogs due to their large size, loud bark, and they possess a protective instinct.
Are Anatolian Shepherds Good Family Dogs
Yes. Anatolian Shepherd make great family dogs since they are loyal, patient, bold,calm, loving, alert, protective, responsive, and devoted dogs.
Are Anatolian Shepherds Smart
Yes. An Anatolian is a smart dog, however, it is an independent breed which makes following of issued commands difficult.
Are Anatolian Shepherds Hypoallergenic
No. Anatolian Shepherds shed all-year round at moderate levels spreading dander and hair around the house. Dog’s saliva, dander, urine, mucus, and fur aggravate allergies.
Anatolian Shepherds Quick Facts
- They are large deep-chested dogs that are prone to gastric torsion.
- Anatolian Shepherds are wary of strangers and should be socialized extensively.
- They are independent dogs bred to guard flocks and make decisions on their own. However, their independent nature makes obedience training difficult.
