Anatolian Shepherd Dog (Kangal)

A majestic guardian from Turkey

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, also known as the Kangal, is a majestic and powerful breed, valued for its loyalty and courage. Originally from Turkey, this breed has established itself as a reliable and versatile working dog.

Origin

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, also known as the Kangal, is a dog breed with millennial roots in Turkey, where it is traditionally used to protect livestock from predators. Its strength, courage and loyalty have made it indispensable to shepherds across Anatolia and they have been highly valued since ancient times for their excellent herding ability.

Size

Anatolian Shepherds are large and powerful animals. Adult male dogs usually stand between 74 and 81 cm at the withers, while bitches usually measure between 71 and 79 cm. The weight of male dogs varies between 50 and 65 kg, while bitches weigh between 41 and 59 kg.

Appearance and Coat

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has a strong and robust body, with a wide and powerful neck. The breed has dark, almond-shaped eyes and a black or brown muzzle. The coat is short to medium long, thick and dense, which gives them good protection against the elements. The colors vary, but the most common are sand, white and mottled.

How much fur does an Anatolian Shepherd shed?

Anatolian Shepherds shed moderately throughout the year, but shedding can be more extensive during spring and fall when they shed their fur. Regular brushing can help reduce the amount of loose hair in the home.

How much exercise does an Anatolian Shepherd need?

This breed is relatively calm and does not need as much physical exercise as other large breeds, but they still need daily walks and opportunities for physical activity. Mental stimulation is also important, as this is an intelligent breed that thrives on tasks and challenges.

Is Anatolian Shepherd Family Friendly?

Anatolian Shepherds are known to be very loyal and protective of their family. They are friendly and patient with children, but due to their size, interactions between small children and the dog should always be supervised. They can be reserved with strangers and other dogs, so early socialization is important.

Acquiring an Anatolian Shepherd Dog

If you are considering getting an Anatolian Shepherd, it is important that you are prepared to spend time training and socializing them. They are an intelligent and independent breed that respond best to consistent and fair training. These dogs are not suitable for apartment living, they need a home with plenty of room to move around, preferably with a secure fenced yard. They are also known to be relatively quiet, which can be an advantage for those living in densely populated areas.

How many Anatolian Shepherds are there in Sweden?

In Sweden, there are 80 registered Anatolian Shepherds as of 2022-12-31.