ADDITIONAL ANATOLIAN SHEPHERD DOG PICTURES
Family: Mastiff
Breed Group: AKC Working
Origin: Mesopotamia
Date of Origin: Descended from some of the most ancient dogs
Originally used for: Guarding livestock
Used today: Farm dog, companion
Other Name(s):
History of the Breed: Turkish shepherds developed this large ancient working breed in harsh environmental conditions. The breed
developed in Anatolia (central Turkey) and continues to be used to guard flocks of sheep from wolves, bears, and other predators. The breed is not a
herding dog but rather a working guard dog. With its speed and agility the breed can run down a predator with great efficiency. Turkish Shepherds
often place iron-spiked collars on their Anatolian Shepherds as protection against attacking animals that grab for the throat.
General Appearance: The Anatolian is a solid working dog of immense size this breed appears bold, but calm, unless challenged.
They possess size, good bone structure and a well-muscled torso with a strong head.
Height & Weight:
Height 27.5-32 Inches
Weight 85-145 Pounds
Coat: Short to medium long dense outercoat, thick undercoat with longer hair at the neck, shoulders, and thigh.
Grooming needs: Low
Temperament of Breed: Requires training when the dog is young to learn how to socialize with other dogs and non-family members
Friendly with children: Yes, with proper socialization starting at an early age. Can be aggressive with strangers
Friendly with other dogs: Yes, with proper socialization starting at an early age. This breed can be dominant.
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: High, needs a yard and should receive exercise daily
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Entropion, bloat, cancer, hip dysplasia, thyroid issues
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 10-12 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 111
First Registered by the AKC: 1996
Registries: FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, NKC, SKC, NZKC, CKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
SKC -The Scottish Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs International, Inc. (ASDI)
