Anatolian Shepherd Dog Breed

About the Anatolian Shepherd Dog Breed

The Anatolian Shepherd was developed by cross breeding Mastiff and a large hunting dog. This breed was used for guarding livestock against wolves and other larger threats.

Anatolian Shepherd Physical Characteristics

The Anatolian Shepherd is a big dog with a large head and droopy ears.

Color(s)

The Anatolian Shepherd can be seen in a variety of colors, though most have “masks” on the face.

Coat

The coat is rough and short-to-medium and length.

Anatolian Shepherd Personality and Temperament

Activity Level

Moderate

Positives

The Anatolian Shepherd is extremely loyal and is a great guard dog.

Things to Consider

The Anatolian Shepherd tends to be unwelcoming toward strangers and sometimes overprotective of its territory.

Anatolian Shepherd Care

Ideal Living Conditions

The Anatolian Shepherd fares the best in the country.

Anatolian Shepherd Health

Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and a slower developing immune system are conditions are commonly seen in the Anatolian Shepherd.

Anatolian Shepherd History and Background

The origins of the Anatolian Shepherd are said to be rooted in Roman Mollosian war dogs and the Tibetan Mastiff, which arrived in Turkey over 4000 years ago. In Turkey, such dogs were used to defend livestock against predators like bears and wolves. They provided company to the nomadic shepherds and also became widespread throughout a vast region, thereby accounting for the breed’s variation in color, size, and coat type. The qualities that remained constant in all the breeds are hardiness, faithfulness and independence.

Its name is derived from the breed’s Turkish name Koban copek, which is roughly translated into “shepherd’s dog.” However, this breed has never functioned as a herder.

First entering the United States in the 1950s, the Anatolian Shepherd effectively guarded livestock from coyotes and various predators, but was not well known among dog fanciers.

From the late 1970s to the 1980s, the Anatolian Shepherd became appreciated and esteemed for its useful attributes. Pet lovers who sought a loyal and trustworthy guardian started acquiring the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed as part of the Miscellaneous class in 1996 and later into the Working Group.

By: Chewy Editorial