Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Nickname: 
Karabas

AKC Group: 
Working Group

Height: 
17 - 29 Inches

Weight: 
80 - 150 Pounds

Appearance: 

Large, powerful dogs with a gentle look. They have a thick neck, thick double coat, broad head, hanging v-shaped ears and almond shaped eyes.


Color: 

Any color.


Grooming: 
Requires occasional brushing. Sheds heavily in warmer months.

Temperament: 

Intelligent, loving, gentle and playful. Very protective of its owner. Bred to hunt predators and loves to roam. Needs to be in an open fenced in area. Playful, yet not destructive.


Lifespan: 
14 years

History: 

Originated in Turkey more than 5,000 years ago. Bred as herders and guarders of livestock they were bred to have the same color as the flock of animals they were protecting so they would blend in from predators.


Health Concerns: 

Generally free of genetic disorders. Can develop hip dysplasia, cancer or eye problems.