Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Bold, calm, and rugged, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog fiercely protects his own.
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a native of Turkey, where he was developed as a shepherd's companion and livestock guardian. He was bred to resemble the size and color of the livestock he defended so predators would not detect him among the flock. Sometimes called the Anatolian Karabash Dog, he's a fiercely loyal guard dog and a large, impressive dog breed, weighing 120 to 150 pounds at maturity.
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Vital Stats
- Dog Breed Group: Working Dogs
- Height: Generally 2 feet, 3 inches to 2 feet, 5 inches tall at the shoulder
- Weight: Generally 80 to 150 pounds
- Life Span: 11 to 13 years
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a considered a livestock protector or guardian dog. As such, he was developed to live with the flock and adopt it as his own. He is a rugged, self-confident guardian who knows how much protection or intimidation is necessary in any situation.
The Anatolian has been working independently for centuries, making decisions regarding threats to his property. As a puppy, he adopts whomever he lives with, be it a family or a herd of sheep; as he grows, he takes on the protector gig. It doesn't matter to the Anatolian whether his "flock" is human or animal — he is extremely protective and possessive.
And he backs up his guardian nature with presence. The Anatolian is a large dog, weighing as much as 150 pounds. He has a short, fawn coat and a black mask. He appears intimidating, and if necessary he is — though he's calm and friendly with his family.
Not surprisingly for a guard dog, the Anatolian Shepherd is suspicious of strangers and reserved with those outside his "flock." He takes his job seriously — this dog is no clown — and when his owner isn't home, he is unlikely to allow even friends or extended family members whom he's met before to come onto his property.
At the same time, the Anatolian is a very intelligent, loyal, steady working dog. He's highly trainable, though he's likely to consider whether or not he will choose to obey a command, due to his independent nature. He needs an owner who is strong, kind, and consistent as a pack leader.
This breed is probably not a good choice as a family pet if you have very young children. Because he's so large, he could accidentally injure a small child, especially when he's a clumsy, growing puppy (the phrase "bull in a china shop" applies).
Additionally, the Anatolian typically does not respect children as pack leaders, and he could decide to protect his children from visiting playmates if they're roughhousing and the dog misinterprets the activity. Generally, the Anatolian is tolerant of older children and is good with them. To him they are, of course, part of the flock that needs guarding, along with the rest of the family.
The Anatolian Shepherd is not the perfect breed for everyone. He can be a fine and loyal companion if you and your family understand his unique qualities and requirements and are ready to take on the responsibility of owning a very large and protective dog.
If you need a dog to protect a flock or herd, find a breeder who breeds successful livestock guardians: you'll have a better outcome if the puppy or adult you purchase already has successful working dogs in his bloodline.
When looking for a family companion, focus on proper breed temperament. Find a good breeder with experience with this dog's character, and you'll be able to look forward to many years of companionship with a loyal, protective guardian for your family.
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