Quick Stats for Anatolian Shepherd Dogs
- Height (at the shoulders): dogs 28 – 30 inches (71 – 76 cm) bitches 26 – 28 inches (66 – 71 cm)
- Weight: dogs 100 – 150 pounds (45 68 kg) bitches 90 – 130 pounds (41 – 59 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
- AKC Group: working group – recognized 1996
- Shedding: seasonal heavy shedder
- Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; relatively inactive indoors; best with a large yard
Personality of Anatolian Shepherds
The Anatolian Shepherd is very loyal and devoted to their family. At the same time, they are very easy going, affectionate, and would make an ideal family pet. They enjoy children but should be supervised because of their large size. They may unintentionally hurt a child.
They make great watchdogs, and are very wary and suspicious of strangers and other unfamiliar animals.
Although often associated with a flock, they are guardians of the flock and are not to be confused with herding dogs. These dogs are capable of great speed and endurance,
History of Anatolian Shepherd Dogs
The breed has a long history as a working dog. They were originally bred to be the guardians of a flock. Today, they are still used as a security dog.
Some research trace their origin as far back as 4000 years to the Roman Mollosian dogs of war, and to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were used to protect livestock from dangerous predators like bears and wolves.
Anatolian Shepherd dogs were introduced to the United States sometime during the mid 1950s. At first, they were used primarily for guarding livestock against coyotes, wolves, and other predators. But in the late 1970s and the early 1980s, the breed became more popular.
Once that happened, dog enthusiasts began breeding and raising Anatolian Shepherds. They were regarded for they devotion and considered excellent family protectors.
In 1996 the AKC recombined this wonderful dog breed.
Anatolian Shepherd Care and Grooming
This dog breed can live outside if necessary, as long as there are no extreme temperatures (either hot or cold). Of course, they also love to be a part of the family and would love to sleep indoors at night.
An Anatolian Shepherd requires plenty of exercise. Given the opportunity, they will run or jog with their owners. However, a brisk walk on leash will do the job. If possible, they would do best being able to run free in their own fenced yard. Because they are working dogs, they would do great if they have a job to do.
In general, they require little grooming. But a weekly brushing with the proper dog grooming brush to remove any dead hair would be great.
The breed is known to be a seasonal heavy shedder – they shed twice per year. During this time their coat should be thoroughly brushed.
Health Problems of Anatolian Shepherd Dogs
The average life expectancy of an Anatolian Shepherd is twelve to fifteen years.
The breed is quite healthy with the only major health issue being CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Although CHD is not as common as in some of the other large dog breeds. Of minor concern is eyelid entropion and hypothyroidism.
Anatolian Shepherds have also been known to be sensitive to anesthesia.
Veterinarians recommend that these dogs be tested for potential hip and eye problems.
Image Courtesy of Wikipedia
Best,
Omar Reyes
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
So, I am interested in a Mastiff. Is this classified as a working, sporting, or other dog?
I had met one a few weeks ago and fell absolutely in love! Couldn’t find about one on your site, but maybe you could refer me.
L
Hi Lisa,
I know exactly what you mean, I just love Mastiffs
. They are really large dogs though. One of my neighbors had a Mastiff puppy, about 4 months old, and that boy was huge.
But to answer your question – the Mastiff is a member of the AKC Working Group. They are definitely on my list of profiles to complete. But for now, here is the offical AKC blurb on the Mastiff – http://www.akc.org/breeds/mastiff/.
Omar