Some Anatolian Facts
Where does the Anatolian Shepherd Dog originate?
Ø The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is native to the rural districts of Turkey and Asia Minor where it is the shepherd's companion and protector of livestock.
How big does the Anatolian Shepherd Dog get?
Ø At full maturity (age 3 years) the adult male should weigh 50-75kg and stand at least 28” at the shoulder, (29-32” is common however males at 36” are a possibility, and as such you can expect the largest of males to weigh proportionately more). Females should weigh 41-59kg and stand at least 28” at the shoulder, however females up to 33” are not unheard of.
What are the colours and coat length of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog?
Ø The classic colouring of this breed is fawn with black mask. Other colours include red, grey, liver, blue, white, black and tan with markings including pinto/piebald, solid white, dutch or brindle. Short and rough coats can be found within the same litter. All colours are accepted; however merle pattern does not exist in Anatolians and is not accepted.
What is the lifespan of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog?
Ø The average lifespan of the Anatolian Shepherd is between 11-13 years in a normal, safe environment.
What is the temperament of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog?
Ø The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a fiercely loyal guard dog that demonstrates a possessive attitude towards family, property and livestock. He is suspicious of strangers, reserved when in public and may expect a "formal introduction” before tolerating any unfamiliarities. Some Anatolians will never accept “new” people, however their loyalty remains steadfast to the immediate familial members. The Anatolian Shepherd requires an owner who can be a strong, positive leader who consistently requires civilized behaviour. This means balanced and continuous SOCIALIZATION!
What training is recommended for Anatolian Shepherd Dogs?
Ø It is necessary to SOCIALIZE the Anatolian Shepherd Dog from puppyhood on a controlled and managed way. Basic obedience training is an absolute necessity, Ringcraft training for showing is probably the gold standard to aim for. Schutzhund training is not encouraged nor recommended for this breed. Personal protection or any other similar training must never be introduced to an Anatolian.
How much does the Anatolian Shepherd Dog eat?
Ø The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a conservative eater; they require much less than most other breeds of dog per kilo of body weight. They have a slow metabolism due to the nature of their history and development as a breed. They thrive on raw and BARF model of feeding but also do well on kibble diets. They also enjoy Yal, a traditional Turkish food made from oats as well as Kefir a yoghurt like dairy drink, it is excellent for digestion. They seem to tolerate all protein sources with little digestive upsets.
How Is the Anatolian Shepherd Dog good with children?
Ø The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is affectionate with family and adores children. However, they do not appreciate erratic, loud, unruly and unpredictable behaviour. He does not recognize the child as his master and may be very protective of his child. Careful supervision of children around dogs is required at all times.
What type of housing/fencing is needed for this breed?
Ø The Anatolian Shepherd Dog should be kept in a fenced area not only for his protection but so that he does not become a liability. An Anatolian without boundaries can seek to enlarge his territory. A secure garden with a 6 foot fence and a locked gate is required. The breed can endure extremes of temperature and terrain. A shelter from inclement weather (which he may or may not choose to use) and a shady area when it is warm should be provided at all times.
How Is the Anatolian Shepherd Dog with other animals and family pets?
Ø The most successful relationship with other animals is the situation when the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, as a puppy, is introduced under careful supervision to other animals. Puppies usually adapt well to other family pets (or livestock) and often take them into their protective sphere.
Does the Anatolian Shepherd Dog bark?
Ø In short, YES! Some Anatolian Shepherd Dogs will bark less than others. In general, however, the adult Anatolian is usually quiet, only sounding the alarm when necessary. They must learn what is a threat and what does not require the alarm to be set off. Puppies will test their owners and may bark at any noise or intruder, no matter how slight or unthreatening that may be and they will not care that it is 3:30am and you are up at 6am for work. You cannot expect an Anatolian to have proper control of their “alarm system” until at least 2 years old. Anatolians are not mature, physically nor mentally until over 3 years, some will mature quicker than others.
Does the Anatolian Shepherd Dog have any breed-related health problems?
Ø The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has not been prone to any particular disease. Hip dysplasia, while present in most large breeds, is not yet a serious problem. Responsible breeder's will x-ray all breeding stock. Entropion (inverted eyelids) is present in some lines but will not be widespread if breeders only breed from unaffected stock. There is not a high incidence of bloat in the breed. Because of the drop ear, ear infections are fairly common and as such regular ear care should be employed. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog can be sensitive to anaesthesia and requires minimal dosage for their weight.
What grooming is required for the Anatolian Shepherd Dog?
Ø The Anatolian Shepherd Dog requires standard care for coat, eyes, ears, pads and nails. He tends to have very little "doggy" odour. Regular bathing should be avoided. If the coat is dirty, towel dry then allow to air dry completely and then a good brush outdoors will remove the dried in dirt. The coat requires little care except during seasonal shedding (moulting) twice a year at which time a thorough brushing is required.
