| AKC Group: | Working |
| A.K.A.: | Karabas |
| Functions: | Guard dog, Sheep herder |
| Year of Origin: | Ancient |
| Country of Origin: | Turkey |
| Life Span (yr): | 12 - 15 |
| Colors: | Biscuit and white, Fawn, Blue, Liver, White |
| Height (Inch): | 27 - 29 |
| Weight (lb): | 85 - 125 |
| Size: | Very Large |
| Hair Length: | Medium |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: |  |
| Watch Dog: |  |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a dog that seems fit for even the most extreme terrain. He has a high level of endurance, yet is quite agile. He has a bright expression with the aid of his moderately sized eyes that are usually brown or amber. His ears are shaped like Vs and are quite wide and long, as they drop to the side of his large head. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has a furrowed brow. His muzzle is bulky and very strong. His nose is solid in color and usually brown or black. His coat varies from short to rough and can even have some feathering along the ears, legs, and tail. Some dogs even have a thicker area of his fur around the neck creating a mane.
Temperament:
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog’s temperament reverts back to his original calling as a herder. Because he was bred to keep watch over herds of animals he is always aware and ready for action. He is also even-keeled and not quick to over-react – although he will respond appropriately when the situation calls for it. In addition, again related back to his herding instincts, he is courageous, protective, and very territorial. He can be very reserved around people he does not know, as well. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is good with children, but his size may cause him to accidently knock younger ones down.
Health:
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has several hereditary conditions that may appear in his breed from time to time. He is prone to eye disorders such as entropion. He is also predisposed to one of the most common disorders among dogs, hip dysplasia – although less than most large dogs. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog can have an allergic reaction to anesthesia – so beware of having surgery. Finally, for some reason, it takes the Anatolian Shepherd a longer period of time to develop immunities to certain diseases, so he may need an extra shot to protect against parvo-virus. Talk to his veterinarian to find out other ways to keep him healthy.
Maintenance:
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog should be a welcome addition to most homes, especially since he is relatively simple to groom. He should be brushed when needed, but he only has a heavy shedding period two times each year. Any other time he is brushed is merely upon the kindness of his owner, not because he is looking mangy. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog should be taken out for a nice long walk every day. He also enjoys running off of his leash in a fenced yard; however, it is not a substitute for a walk with his owner. If he can be put to work, it would please him greatly, but he is happy with his family, as well.