The Anatolian Shepherd Dog heralds from a time of the ancients. During the era of Alexander the Great, dogs much like the ASD were assisting and guarding the livestock of nomadic European shepherds. The harsh conditions meant that the strongest, smartest and fittest survived. Those became the ancestors of the modern Anatolian. With its relative lack of health issues, moderate conformation and following of devoted fanciers, the Anatolian emerges as a breed that may very well survive the dangerous future of being popular and its accompanying problems of pet shops, puppy mills and irresponsible breeders. Still treasured as a reliable guardian and devoted companion when reared by those who understand and respect the drives of this dog.
Coat type: short to medium long and dense outercoat; thick undercoat with longer hair at neck, shoulders and thigh
Recognized Registries: UKC, NCA, FCI and others
Overall Appearance: Cleanly made, the Anatolian is not overdone. Without any exagerration in lines, coat, many would consider it a good representation of a solid working dog. Immense in size, it is clearly the progeny of Molosser lines (Mastiff) and harsh conditions.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: moderate
General Nature:
loyal, loving and devoted to family, intensely protective of their charges which include livestock and family, socializing is crucial for proper recognition
with Children: exceptional if raised with well behaved children
with other pets: questionable as their protective instincts can be raised by those they are unfamiliar with; exceptional guardians with those they are raised with
with dogs: can be dog aggressive if viewing other dogs as a threat to those in their care
Socialization requirements: very high; these dogs must be thoroughly and carefully socialized to be able to assess those they are protecting from those they must be protected from
Ideal home characteristics: one that acknowledges the breed's inherent desire to work, while an exceptional companion, an outlet must be available for this physical and mental inclination, lots of space is desirable whether for livestock or long walks,
Temperament Notes: intelligent and generally quite calm except when working as a guardian. Loyal and fervent, undaunted by those they view as dangerous. Without proper handling while young they can be a risk to other animals including dogs, cats, birds and more.
Training requirement: moderate: socializing (crucial to their appropriate usage of their loyal, protective natures) and basic manners (too powerful physically to be out of control)
Trainer notes: The Anatolian Shepherd Dog as a puppy, is a blank slate with an inherent nature to be protective and confident. Guided by the inexperienced or fearful, the dog will fulfill its destiny as a dangerous and somewhat unreliable force. With proper guidance and basic instruction/communication, the Anatolian will mature into a remarkable companion of uncommon valor, intelligence and stability. Utilizing proper handling techniques to this goal simply requires proper research, assistance and guidance from people knowledgable in Livestock Guardian Dogs and their nature.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: difficult to determine, descended from some of the most ancient dogs to benefit from a relationship with man
Country of Origin: probably Mesopotamia
Original Function: livestock guardian
History: Harsh conditions and the needs of nomadic Turkish shepherds shaped the development of this breed in contrast to vanity or breeder preferences. As a result, the solid temperament and sound health of the Anatolian today owes itself to these forces.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: excessively long coat, poor bite, anything that compromises its ability to serve as a LGD
Health Notes: entropion, bloat, cancer, hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, anesthesia sensitivity
