Introduction
Ancestors of today’s Anatolian Shepherds belong to some of the most ancient domestic canine lineages, tracing back thousands of years, according to Petscarelab’s canine heritage research. Originally developed in Turkey as steadfast guardians of livestock, Anatolian Shepherds arrived in the U.S. during the 1950s. Their exceptional skill at protecting livestock has earned them considerable acclaim, and these courageous dogs have even been deployed to safeguard endangered cheetahs in Namibia, Africa.
Male Anatolian Shepherds typically weigh between 110 and 150 pounds and stand about 29 inches tall, while females range from 80 to 120 pounds and average 27 inches in height. Their impressive size alone serves as a formidable deterrent to potential threats. Bred for their self-reliant guarding instinct, this dedicated breed is fiercely loyal, both to their human families and the flocks they protect.
Caring for an Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian Shepherds’ innate ability to guard livestock independently makes them invaluable working dogs; however, this trait can present challenges when adapting to urban life.
Though they don’t demand excessive exercise, daily outdoor play in a securely fenced yard is generally sufficient to keep them content. Naturally cautious around strangers and marked by a strong independent streak, Anatolian Shepherds can be challenging to train. Therefore, they thrive under the guidance of an experienced pet parent who understands the breed’s unique temperament and is prepared to meet the responsibilities that come with it.
Anatolian Shepherd Health Issues
Anatolian Shepherds are robust and generally healthy dogs, but reputable breeders should conduct screenings for certain developmental and ocular conditions.
Growth Disorders
Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia occur when the bones in the elbow or hip joints fail to align properly, causing bones to rub and grind over time. This leads to joint degeneration and reduced mobility.
These conditions can be inherited but may also be influenced by factors such as exercise routines, body weight, and diet. Treatment depends on the severity of the disorder.
Entropion
Anatolian Shepherds may be predisposed to entropion, a condition where the eyelid curls inward, causing eyelashes to irritate the eye’s surface. Fortunately, veterinarians can typically diagnose and resolve this with a straightforward surgical procedure.
Sensitivity to Anesthesia
While Anatolian Shepherds safely undergo anesthetic procedures like spaying, neutering, or dental work, they tend to be more sensitive to anesthesia than many other breeds. This often means their recovery takes longer, so veterinarians take special care to closely monitor them during and after anesthesia.
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), a severe and potentially fatal form of bloat, can affect deep-chested breeds such as the Anatolian Shepherd.
Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with food and gas, often after a large meal, trapping contents inside and preventing normal digestion. Pressure builds, causing the stomach to expand and press against the diaphragm, hindering breathing and decreasing blood flow to the heart. If untreated, this can result in stomach rupture and life-threatening complications.
Recognizing the signs of GDV is critical—seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your Anatolian Shepherd displays any of these symptoms:
- Swollen, distended abdomen
- Attempts to vomit without producing anything (retching)
- Signs of abdominal pain, such as standing and stretching frequently or excessive drooling
What To Feed an Anatolian Shepherd
Choosing the ideal diet for an Anatolian Shepherd depends largely on your dog’s individual needs. Prioritize meals with high-quality ingredients and consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations tailored to your dog’s health history. Typically, Anatolian Shepherds thrive on large-breed diets suitable for their current life stage—puppies should begin with large-breed puppy formulas before transitioning to adult recipes.
How To Feed an Anatolian Shepherd
Due to their deep chest conformation, Anatolian Shepherds are susceptible to GDV. To help prevent this potentially life-threatening condition, feed smaller meals two to three times daily and avoid vigorous exercise near feeding times.
How Much Should You Feed an Anatolian Shepherd?
Adult Anatolian Shepherds can weigh anywhere from 80 to 150 pounds, so food portions must be adjusted accordingly. Use feeding guidelines on your dog food packaging as a helpful starting point, adjusting portions based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and overall condition.
Nutritional Tips for Anatolian Shepherds
For dogs with joint concerns such as hip or elbow dysplasia, supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health. Omega-3 fatty acids also contribute to joint function and promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Anatolian Shepherd Personality and Temperament
Typically calm and composed, Anatolian Shepherds will spring into action without hesitation if they sense danger to their family or flock. Their protective instincts make them excellent companions for families with older children who understand canine boundaries. However, because of their size and strength, households with small children might not be ideal, as a playful bump from a 150-pound dog can be overwhelming. With early socialization, Anatolian Shepherd puppies often coexist well with other pets.
Anatolian Shepherd Behavior
With thousands of years bred to guard, Anatolian Shepherds tend to bark, especially to warn of perceived threats near their territory. This trait may not sit well in close-knit neighborhoods or apartment buildings, so they’re best suited to homes without nearby neighbors in shared walls.
Anatolian Shepherd Training
Anatolian Shepherds’ independence—honed over centuries to guard livestock on their own—often comes across as stubbornness, which can make training a challenge. However, consistent, positive-reinforcement training yields the best results. Early socialization is essential, exposing puppies to diverse people, places, and animals to prevent them from becoming unnecessarily suspicious or fearful.
Fun Activities for Anatolian Shepherds
- Farm work and livestock guarding
- Leisurely walks
- Water activities such as swimming
Anatolian Shepherd Grooming Guide
Anatolian Shepherds sport a short but dense double coat designed to shield them from harsh outdoor elements. While they shed moderately year-round, their grooming needs are relatively manageable.
Coat Care
This breed sheds its undercoat twice annually, and during these periods, regular thorough brushing every few days is necessary to remove loose hair. Outside of shedding seasons, weekly brushing is sufficient to maintain their sleek outer coat.
Eye Care
Though entropion can be a concern in puppies, Anatolian Shepherds generally do not suffer from tear staining or other common eye issues. If you observe excessive tearing, eye redness, or unusual discharge, consult a veterinarian promptly as these may indicate entropion or other eye conditions.
Ear Care
Routine ear cleaning with a veterinarian-approved solution helps maintain healthy ears, especially after swimming or bathing, to prevent infections and buildup.
Considerations for Pet Parents
With their long history rooted in guarding livestock, Anatolian Shepherds require knowledgeable pet parents ready for the complexities of this large, independent, and protective breed. Early, consistent socialization is fundamental to help puppies differentiate between genuine threats and normal experiences. While their independent nature might limit their performance in obedience competitions, with patience and regular training, Anatolian Shepherds can become wonderfully well-mannered family companions.
Do Anatolian Shepherds bark a lot?
Due to their legacy as vigilant livestock guardians, Anatolian Shepherds do tend to bark, particularly when they sense threats to their home or flock.
Are Kangal dogs and Anatolian Shepherds the same?
Though similar in appearance, Kangals are slightly larger, with longer coats. Both breeds were bred for independent livestock guarding, but Kangals are generally more affectionate with family, whereas Anatolian Shepherds lean toward greater independence.
How big do Anatolian Shepherds get?
Adult males typically weigh between 110 and 150 pounds and stand around 29 inches tall, while females average 80 to 120 pounds and stand approximately 27 inches tall.
