CHARACTERISTICS : A large to giant breed of Livestock Guardian dog, the Anatolian is a fiercely loyal guardian that demonstrates a possessive attitude towards family, property and livestock. He is suspicious of strangers, reserved when in public, and may expect a "formal introduction" before tolerating any familiarities. The Anatolian is NOT a dog for everyone, but for those select few who learn to live with this very demanding breed, it can be a most rewarding experience!!
TEMPERAMENT : The Anatolian will generally get along with any animals it grows up with or has decided to "adopt" as its flock. They are especially good with well behaved children; however, it is never recommended to leave very young children alone with a large dog, no matter how nice or gentle the dog is.
HISTORY : The Anatolian is an ancient Turkish Livestock Guardian that is considered one of the giant breeds of Molloser-type dogs. Humans are believed to have first lived in what was originally called Mesopotamia, now Turkey, and surrounding areas. Records show that fossils suggesting large Mastiff-type dogs appeared at the same time as fossils of grazing "flock" animals. This puts forth the theory that the Livestock Guardian breeds were probably among the first domestic dogs. The Anatolian is believed to have been developed by shepherds crossing these large Molloser-type dogs with the Turkish sighthounds to get a guardian with the speed to run down whatever was threatening their flocks of sheep or goats and have the strength to deal with the predator, be it wolf, bear, or lion, in the most effective manner. There is also a theory that the Asian Wolf might be part of the Anatolian makeup.
Much has happened since the late 1930's, when the Turkish government sent the first Anatolian Shepherd Dogs to the United States government to be used in the first 'sheepdog' studies. Now Anatolians are working all over the world, from Africa to the United States, to successfully protect livestock from predation. It is hoped that some of the information on this site will help give a working understanding, perspective and perhaps historical insight into the land-race breed that is known internationally as the “Anatolian Shepherd Dog”.
The name "Anatolian Shepherd Dog" has been a subject of much controversy. There are those who believe there are three completely separate breeds of Turkish Livestock Guardians (Akbash, Kangal & Kars Dogs), while others choose to believe there is only one breed with regional and color varieties.
The names “Anatolian Shepherd Dog”, “Çoban Köpegi”, "Gammel", “Chien de berger d'Anatolie”, “Anatolischer Hirtenhund” and “Perro de pastor de Anatolia” are all derivative of a known fact - these dogs are the shepherd's dog evolved from the historical region of Anatolia. All names reflect understanding and respect for this dog as one which comes from a long standing working heritage that predates our time - truly the working dog of shepherds.


ORIGIN : Native to the rural districts of Turkey.
UTILIZATION : Flock guardian, Family companion/guardian.
SIZE : Extra Large to Giant
HEIGHT : Males: 29-34" - Females: 27-31"
WEIGHT : Males: 100-150# - Females: 80-120#
GROOMING: Little (mostly seasonal)
EXCERCISE: Moderate (spurts, early in morning or at night when cool)
HEALTH: Very hardy breed
LIFE SPAN: 12-16 years