The Anatolian Shepherd is usually a fawn dog with black points and mask that is quite striking in appearance. In the United Statees the standard is not quite as strict and the color may be a light cream with or without a facial mask. It was used as a guardian dog in Turkey for the flocks of sheep and goats and is a bold dog that will fend off predators without any fear or hesitation. The dog originally was known as the Anatolian Karabash until it was entered into the registry of the Kennel Club of Great Britain. It is a large mastiff type dog without any heaviness to the jowls as with some mastiffs, being of clean lines and heavy boned and solid in appearance through the body. This is a dog that can and should prevent predator attacks and also humans who have a bad intent towards its flock, but should not be overly aggressive, simply watchful and alert. He should be reserved when away from his own territory and not at all possessive or aggressive in those circumstances.
The Anatolian Shepherd has a tight, dense coat about one inch in length all over, although there is a variety called the "rough coat" with longer hair, it is much more rare and not as well known. The Anatolian has been known in Europe and Great Britain for many years but only recently (1996) was the Standard approved by the American Kennel Club. The A.K.C. has registered this dog as a member of the Working Group.
His movement is rangy and well balanced. The dog is a large dog, standing 27-29 inches at the shoulder with a weight of 110 to 140 pounds, but in movement he should be "light on the feet" and agile. This is a dog that is an easy care breed, relatively free of genetic problems and easy to groom, (especially the short coated variety.)
The Anatolian is an independent breed and not necessarily a house pet, although he is a faithful guard dog in the house he becomes bored easily and is happiest when doing outside work. He is a dog that should have a job to do. Most of the people who own an Anatolian, if they are not showing him, are actually using him for his intended purpose. He is becoming more popular in the southwestern and midwestern United States since his prowess as a coyote killer has become evident.
This is a breed that needs a great deal of socializing as a puppy since he is a thinking dog and not a "follower". He is highly protective of his own people or flock. With children he may not recognize them as "little people" and may treat them more as members of his flock, this can lead to problems when strange children come over to play. It is necessary that the person who owns an Anatolian recognizes that this is a breed that has a purpose and a job, this is not a dog who is intended to be "just a pet".
Anatolian Shepherd For Sale
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog was developed as a large dog to guard livestock. She is powerful, and rugged with a sturdy body and thick neck. She is really not suited to an apartment due to her size and exercise requirements. She at least needs a properly fenced yard for exercise, better yet some acreage or a farm. If properly socialized, she is good with children and makes a mellow dog but a good watch dog. Her size alone is a great deterrent. Never leave any young child unsupervised with a dog for any length of time.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Anatolian Shepherd Dog is approximately 29 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and from 110 to 150 pounds. The female should run about 27 inches to the withers and 80 to 120 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness) can occur in this breed. They can be allergic to beef which might lead to reactions such as ear infections. A more natural diet for them is food containing lamb as the meat ingredient. Another problem can be hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain).
*Grooming. Her coat is short to medium length with a thick undercoat and she sheds heavily twice a year. You should try to brush your dog frequently, even though this breed requires infrequent brushing. Brushing will help keep your pets coat clean and healthy Brushing will also help you keep a closer eye on your pets health and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet.
*Dogs teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and a toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease. Your dog should also have her toenails clipped. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best choice for this chore.
*Life Span. She can live from 14 to 17 years with proper nutrition, exercise and health care.
*History. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog comes from a section of Turkey called Anatolia. It was bred to be large to help guard flocks of sheep against predators such as jackals, bears and wolves. These dogs were imported into the United States with by quantity in the early fifties. The American Kennel Association started registering them in 1995.
Both Michael Russell & Mitch Endick are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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