Anatolian Shepherd

Family: livestock dog, mastiff, flock guard

Origin: Turkey

Date of Origin: ancient times

Breed For: flock guard

Lifespan: Approx. 12 -14 years

Recently Used For: flock guard, security

Avg Size of Male: Height: 74-81 cm (29-32 in) Weight: 50-65 kg(110-145 lb)

Avg Size of Female: Height:71-79 cm (28-31 in) Weight: 50-65 kg(110-145 lb)

Temperament:

This is a serious dog, devoted to its family and its duty as family protector. At the same time, it is laid back-and easygoing, never on the lookout for trouble. It is suspicious of strangers and is territorial. It is good with children, but it may not be playful enough to satisfy children's desires. As a serious watchdog, it tends to bark a lot when its suspicions are aroused.

History:

The Anatolian shepherd is an ancient guardian breed with a long working history. Its roots probably lie in the Tibetan mastiff and Roman Mollosian war dogs that came to Turkey more than 4,000 years ago. Here Anatolian shepherds proved invaluable as staunch defenders of livestock against formidable predators, including wolves and bears. They accompanied the nomadic shepherds and became widespread over a large geographical region, accounting for the Anatolian's great variation in size, coat type and color. Several traits that remained constant throughout the breed, however, are loyalty, independence and hardiness. The name shepherd is a misnomer because the breed was never used as a herder. Its Turkish name, koban copek, means "shepherd's dog." The first of the breed did not come to America until the 1950s, where although it proved itself as an effective livestock guard against coyotes and other predators, it remained unknown to most dog fanciers. Only in the late 1970s and 1980s did the Anatolian shepherd begin to be more widely appreciated, still valued for its utilitarian, rather than cosmetic, attributes. Pet owners desiring a loyal and effective guardian began to acquire the breed.

Upkeep:

The Anatolian shepherd needs a chance to exercise every day, either with a long walk or brisk run. It can live outside in temperate to cool climates. Coat care is minimal, consisting only of a weekly brushing to remove dead hair.

Health:

Major concerns: CHD#Minor concerns: entropion#Occasionally seen: none#Suggested tests: hip, (eye)#Life span: 10 – 13 years#Note: sensitive to anesthesia