Pet Health And Care >> Dog Breed >> Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - Information on the Dog Breed, Breeders, Puppies, For Sale, Training, Rescue and Prices

The Anatolian Shepherd dog is originally from Turkey and was mainly bred and used to protect and guard livestock.

This dog breed is known for its acute hearing and excellent eyesight as well as its fierce loyalty. The Anatolian Shepherd dog also has great strength and can even tackle wolves that try to prey on cattle.

Physical Appearance

The physical appearance of the Anatolian shepherd dog breed is very formidable.

These dogs are large and rugged and are about 27 to 30 inches in height and can weight between 85 and 145 pounds. Their triangular drop ears make them easily recognizable even from great distances. Their front legs are braced well apart, and their coat is usually white.

Breed and Temperament

Because the Anatolian shepherd dog has been involved in the same occupation of guardianship for generation upon generation he is by instinct protective towards those that he is possessive about, and considers as his own family. While these dogs are normally calm and even docile, they can turn ferocious in an instant if either they or their adopted family are threatened. Many Anatolian shepherd dog breeders with plenty of experience with canines rate this dog as among the most effective guard dogs in the world.

The Anatolian shepherd dog is neither friendly nor aggressive to strangers and for the most part their behavior towards visitors is impersonal and indifferent. Anatolian shepherd dog puppies can develop a stubborn streak and so early training is a must. With regard to their training, there are specific Anatolian shepherd dog training techniques that have been developed over the years and only experienced trainers can handle them well. Their loyalty and affection for children make them excellent family companions. These dogs can become quite temperamental if they follow a monotonous daily routine that lacks adequate exercise. Long walks as well as a short amount of playtime are a must as this helps them to bond with their owners.

Health Risks and Care

These dogs are generally very healthy and have a comparatively long lifespan of 12-15 years. The Anatolian shepherd dog could suffer from minor skin problems as well as musculoskeletal ailments. Lipomas and various types of cancer are other causes for concern.

Caring for an Anatolian Shepherd Dog

The Anatolian shepherd dog has a thick and wiry double coat and so they require regular grooming. They shed excessively in summer and need to be brushed at least twice a week. Since an Anatolian shepherd dog has a thick fur coat, it would be prudent to check them regularly for ticks and other parasites.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog Rescue

This is not a very common breed and so there are few anatolian shepherd dog rescue groups. While Anatolian shepherd dog puppies for sale are quite costly, rescued animals cost considerably less. When rescue groups find abandoned dogs they distribute information on them in order to attract buyers. In some cases, it is possible to get one of these dogs for less than a quarter of the normal Anatolian shepherd dog price.

Submitted on September 19, 2011