The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, also known as the Anatolian Karabash Dog, the Anatolische Herdershond, the Coban Köpegi, the Kangal Dog, the Anadolu Kopek, the Karabas, the Turkish Guard Dog, the Turkish Sheepdog and the Karabash Dog, is an ancient guardian breed with its origin in Turkey. The breed was developed to withstand harsh climatic conditions and thrive in the lifestyle of nomadic shepherds, by guarding their flocks of sheep and herds of goats. Loyalty, hardiness and independence are the most valued characteristics of this breed. These dogs first came to America in the mid-1900s. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are faithful to a fault, highly intelligent and obedient when well trained. They were admitted to the Working Group of the American Kennel Club in 1995.
This definitely is not a dog for everyone. If not properly socialized and trained, Anatolians can become unmanageable with strangers, and sometimes even with their owners. Anatolian Shepherds do best in large homes with lots of space, and they enjoy being outdoors where they can be on their best watch. These are intensely alert and territorial dogs, bred to be wary and watchful. Their strong protective instincts must be channeled properly to make them agreeable members of the canine community.
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog originated in Turkey, and it is estimated that the breed may be as many as 6,000 years old. It originally was used as a combat dog for fighting and hunting large game, including lions and horses. The breed eventually was used to protect livestock from wild predators, and its size, coat and color evolved so that the breed would blend in with the flocks that it guarded. Anatolian Shepherds were bred
Anatolian Shepherds are truly a working breed. Designed to be protectors of livestock, these dogs take work very seriously. Excellent watchdogs with a loud, deep bark; neither fox nor burglar will get past an Anatolian Shepherd. They are independent and stubborn, but devoted to their family and are an ideal working dog for farmers. This is not a family dog, but a working dog, and potential owners should do as much research as possible before
The AKC standard state that Anatolian Shepherd Dogs should, “appear bold, but calm, unless challenged. He possesses size, good bone, a well-muscled torso with a strong head.” Though large and powerful, Anatolians are very agile animals. The skull is wide and the muzzle is rectangular, with a blunt profile. The ears are small, pendant (hanging) and V-shaped. Anatolians' small eyes range in color from gold to brown. They have long tails which curl up and
The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Anatolian Shepherd Dog Pictures and Anatolian Shepherd Dog images. Get an in depth look at the Anatolian Shepherd Dog and see the many things that this breed has to offer.