The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, a member of the AKC Working group, is a large, rugged, powerful, and impressive canine. It possesses great endurance and agility and needs a lot of exercise.
It is also a very intelligent dog and easy to train.The Anatolian is a seasonally, heavy shedder but otherwise requires little grooming.
They are somewhat more long-lived than many other large breeds of dogs, with a life expectancy of around 10 to 14 years. These dogs mature slowly compared to many other breeds, not reaching full adulthood until about four years of age.
Typically they are very affectionate with their own family, but are suspicious of strangers, especially after reaching adulthood. Generally speaking, these dogs are not the best choice for a beginning or shy owner.
Developed through a set of very demanding circumstances for a purely utilitarian purpose, the Anatolian is a working guard dog without equal, with a unique ability to protect livestock.
Watch a few Anatolian Shepherds playing
They have very strong protection instincts which get even stronger as the dog matures. At first impression he appears bold, but calm, unless challenged. Their coat can be of any color, but fawn with a black mask is most commonly seen.
The Anatolian Dog, also known as The Turkish Guard Dog or the Karabash, should be around 29 inches at the shoulder and weighing from 110 to 150 pounds, proportionate to it's size and structure. Bitches should be around 27 inches, weighing from 80 to 120 pounds, proportionate to size and structure.
They are not recommended for apartment life even though they are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large, secure, fenced in yard. This breed needs a lot of exercise and do best when they can run freely inside their own fenced-in yard.
Country of origin: Turkey Lifespan: 12-15 years Colors: Fawn with a black mask but any color is acceptable. Other frequently seen colors: pinto, white, brindle Known health problems: Hypothyroidism, eyelid entropion, hip dysplasia, sensitive to anesthesia Famous Anatolian Shepherd Dogs: Bart from Kate and Leopold, Butch from Cats & Dogs
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I am cursed with a right leg that arouses the desire of any male dog that happens to be passing. I used to think that this only happened to me but I've discovered that many people have the same problem. They have a femme fatale limb. - Jasper Carrott
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