Quick facts about this breed

Size

Large

Weight

36-68 kg

Lifespan

10-13 years

Energy Level

Medium

Family Fit

Not kid-safe

Shedding

Moderate

About Anatolian Shepherds

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog originated in the Anatolian region of Turkey over 6,000 years ago, where they were developed to guard livestock against predators including wolves, bears, and jackals. These large, powerful dogs were bred for independence and the ability to make split-second decisions without human guidance.

Anatolian Shepherds are imposing dogs with a short, dense coat that comes in various colours, often with a distinctive black mask. Their strong protective instincts and natural suspicion of strangers make them excellent guardians but require experienced ownership.

These dogs are calm, steady, and devoted to their families but can be aloof with strangers. They require substantial space and are not suited to apartment living. Their independent nature means they need patient, consistent training from an early age. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat. Early socialisation is crucial for proper development.

Complete Care Guide for Anatolian Shepherds

Expert advice on keeping your Anatolian Shepherd healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.

Providing proper nutrition for an Anatolian Shepherd requires careful consideration of their unique dietary needs as a large, muscular breed. These powerful dogs benefit from high-quality protein sources to support their substantial muscle mass and maintain their impressive strength. During their rapid growth phase as puppies, it's essential to feed a specially formulated large-breed puppy food that promotes steady, controlled development.

Working Anatolian Shepherds may require additional caloric intake compared to companion dogs, though their independent nature can sometimes lead to selective eating habits. Establishing consistent feeding schedules helps regulate their food consumption and prevents potential digestive issues. Most adult Anatolian Shepherds thrive on two measured meals daily, rather than free feeding, which helps prevent obesity and reduces the risk of bloat.

Regular monitoring of your Anatolian Shepherd's body condition ensures they maintain a healthy weight throughout their life stages. You should be able to feel their ribs without excessive pressure and observe a visible waist when viewed from above. Adjusting portion sizes based on activity level, age, and overall health status helps prevent weight-related complications that could impact their joints and overall mobility.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about Anatolian Shepherds from our community of pet parents

Anatolian Shepherds are known for their calm, watchful, and protective nature. They are incredibly loyal to their families and can be wary of strangers, which makes them excellent guard dogs. Despite their size, they are also quite gentle and patient, especially with children and other animals in their household. However, due to their strong protective instincts, proper socialisation from a young age is essential.