Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Anatolian Shepherd Dog Facts

Anatolian Shepherd Dog Information

Anatolian Shepherd Dog Description:

Anatolian Shepherd Dog Care & Grooming:

Anatolian Shepherd Dog Health Problems:

Group:	Working
Size:	Large
Life Span:	12-14 years
Height:	Male: 29-31 inches
	Female: 27-29 inches
Weight:	Male: 110-150 lbs
	Female: 80-120 lbs

Coat :	Thick and rough
Gait :	Free and powerful
Color(s) :	Any
Living Area :	Large
Hair Length:	Short Or Medium
Exercise Need :	Daily Long walk
Recognized By :	(FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	Ancient
Place of Origin :	Turkey
Todays Use :	Companion Dog, Guard Dog
Originally Used :	Guard Dog
Other Name :	Karabas, Anatolian Karabas, Shepherd dog

The origin of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog lies in Anatolia, Turkey. The breed is believed to have descended from the Kangal dog and the Akbash dog. It was primarily used as a guard dog, meant to guard livestock against big animals such as wolves, bears and even tigers and lions. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1996.

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a large sized dog with a powerful and a rugged frame. It has a proportionate, strong looking head; almond shaped eyes which are medium in size and dark brown in color; medium set, V shaped ears which drop to either side; a powerful muzzle with no signs of snippiness; a black nose; taut lips with teeth which meet in scissors or level bite. This breed has a high set tail which is carried downwards when relaxed. The tail is long and has a prominent curl at the end. It has long legs with small feet. This breed has a short, or a rough and medium length outer coat, and a thick undercoat. The color of the coat can be any color, mostly white and cream with a black mask and ears.

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a brave, strong willed breed. It is good with kids. However, it may not get along with other dogs if not socialized at an early age. Caution is advised with other pets because of its strong hunting tendencies. It has strong protective instincts and thus, makes for a good guard dog. It can be reserved with strangers. Proper training and socializing is required to correct this behavior. This breed is easy to train but is not recommended for beginners. A firm approach is required when handling this breed, otherwise it can become unnecessarily dominant. This breed does not adapt very well to an indoor environment. So it is not well suited to an apartment life and needs at least an average sized yard to roam around.

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a seasonal shedder. Its short and thick coat is easy to maintain. Brushing its coat once or twice in a week with a firm bristle brush and almost daily brushing during shedding season, and also rubbing its body with a damp towel once in a week are sufficient to maintain a healthy looking coat. It should be bathed only when necessary using a mild shampoo and must be dried properly after each bath. However, extra care should be taken of its feet since it is a heavy breed and a lot of pressure is put on the feet. Regular trimming of the nails is advised to avoid injuries. Its eyes and ears should be cleaned properly to avoid any infection.

This is a working dog and thus requires lots of exercise, physically as well as mentally. Daily long walks are essential to fulfill the natural needs of the dog to walk. Walks should be supplemented with jogging or running every now and then in an open but secured fenced area. It tends to gain weight quickly so should not be overfed. This dog is prone to bloat, so small frequent meals are recommended instead of a large meal.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is prone to some health issues like Cancer, hip Dysplasia, Entropion, Bloat etc.

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