Anatolian Shepherd Dogis a breed of dog which originated in the Anatolia region of central Turkey. It is rugged, large and very strong, with good sight and hearing that allow it to protect livestock.
The Karabaş (Blackhead) is descended from ancient livestock guardian dogtypes that migrated with the transhumance, guarding flocks of sheep from wolves, bears, lions, tigers, leopards, jackals, and even cheetahs. It is probably that dogs of this type existed 6,000 years ago in what is now Turkey.
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are members of a very old breed, probably descended from powerful hunting dogs from Mesopotamia. The breed was developed over time to meet a specific set of circumstances.
The Anatolian Shepherd dog is a muscular breed. They have thick necks, broad heads, and sturdy bodies. Their lips are tight to their muzzle and they have triangular drop ears. Males stand 660 to 790 mm (26 to 31 inches) tall, females between 680 and 760 mm (27 to 30 inches).
They weigh between 40 and 70 kg (90 and 150 pounds), with females on the smaller side and males on the larger side. The coat may be any color, although most common are white cream, “sesame,” and white with large colored spots that do not cover more than 30% of the body.
This breed is probably not a good choice as a family pet if you have very young children. Because he’s so large, he could accidentally injure a small child, especially when he’s a clumsy, growing puppy (the phrase “bull in a china shop” applies).Additionally, the Anatolian typically does not respect children as pack leaders, and he could decide to protect his children from visiting playmates if they’re roughhousing and the dog misinterprets the activity.
Generally, the Anatolian is tolerant of older children and is good with them. To him they are, of course, part of the flock that needs guarding, along with the rest of the family.
Like every dog, the Anatolian Shepherd needs early socialization – exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences – when they’re young. Socialization helps ensure that your Anatolian Shepherd puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.
Potential owners who cannot understand and control these powerful instincts should look for another breed. Anatolian Shepherds are not casual pets. They are dominant, self-reliant dogs who will try to manage everyone and everything unless you are an assertive leader who knows how to instill respect.