Read About Anatolian Shepherd Dog

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is loyal, alert and easy to train. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Anatolian Shepherd Dog Summary:

1. Size:

   Giant

2. Weight:

   100+ lbs

3. Coat:

   Short Coated

4. Shedding:

   Medium Sheding

5. Temperament:

   Gentle

6. Obedience:

   Moderate Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Moderate Easy

8. Way with Children:

   Very Good with Children

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Working; 1995

2. Size & Weight:

   26 -- 30 inches tall and 90 -- 150 lbs

3. Coat:

   This breed has a short outercoat with a thick undercoat

4. Head & Muzzle:

   With a broad head and blunt muzzle, this breed wears an expression of intelligence.

5. Body:

   The Anatolian has a lean and muscular body with a deep chest.

6. Colors:

   This breed can come in any color.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12 -- 15 years

8. Popularity:

   Moderately popular

9. Habitat:

   This breed needs a lot of exercise and are not well suited for apartment life. They will thrive in an in environment with a large, fenced in yard.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Asia

2. Historical Information:

   First brought to the United States in 1968, this breed was used for centuries as a combat dog in war and for hunting.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   This dog is loyal and alert, independent and proud, stubborn and willful. This breed tends to be very possessive of its home and family.

2. Behavior:

   The Anatolian likes to bark at night and enjoys digging.

3. Habits:

   This dog likes to roam free, so be sure to keep him in a fenced yard when off-leash.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Some dogs within this breed are prone to eyelid entropion and hypothyroidism. Hip dysplasia does occur occasionally and this breed tends to take longer to build their immune system, so it is advised to talk to your vet about extra vaccinations against certain diseases.

2. Exercise Needs:

   The breed needs extensive exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Shedding heavily twice a year, you can groom minimally the remainder of the year.

4. Travel Needs:

   With a breed this large, it is advised that your dog be belted in to a dog seat at all times.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   The Anatolian is a very possessive animal when it comes to its family and is extremely protective. As long as it is properly socialized, it will do just fine with children and other family pets.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Bright, clear eyes, smooth and shiny coat, friendly and playful disposition.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Training collar and leash, new dishes, puppy crate and gates, and plenty of toys.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   As with any breed, it is a good idea to get down on your new companions level and check things out. If it is in your line of sight, you can be sure that your curious pup will find it. Remove all objects that can be easily ingested by you dog and make sure that all electrical cords and well hidden.