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Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Breed origin: Turkey
Original purpose: Protection of livestock.
AKC recognized: 1996
AKC group: Working
Size:
Weight: males 110 to 150 lbs;
females 80 to 120 lbs
Size: Height: males at least 29 inches;
females at least 27 inches
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Color: All color patterns and markings.
Life span: 10 to 11 years.
General characteristics/temperament: Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are alert, intelligent, loyal, responsive, calm and observant. Instinctively protective, they are courageous and highly adaptable. They are very territorial and are natural guardians, and are reserved around strangers and off their territories. They are large, rugged, powerful and impressive, possessing great endurance and agility. Loyalty, independence, and hardiness are the three factors most appreciated by fanciers of the breed. They are often dominant and determined, and therefor must be well socialized from a young age and require owners who are strong, positive leaders. They are not recommended for first-time dog owners. If raised with well-behaved children, they can do well with them, but due to their large size and temperament they should always be supervised around children.
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© Aydindurdu (Aydin Durdu) | Dreamstime.com
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Protective? Naturally
OK for inexperienced owners? No
OK in apartments? No
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© Aydindurdu (Aydin Durdu) | Dreamstime.com
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Intelligent? Yes
Easy to train? No
Grooming requirement: Anatolian Shepherd Dogs shed heavily twice a year and lightly the rest of the time.
Additional photos of Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Recommended books for further reading:
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Rescue League
DogBreedMatch
