External parameters of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, the manifestation of the temperament and health of the pet, education, care: wool, ears, dental cavity, nutrition. Puppy price. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, or Anatolian Shepherd Dog, is descended from ancient hunting and herding dogs from Mesopotamia that migrated to guard flocks of sheep from the attacks of predatory animals. Dogs of this type probably existed 6,000 years ago in Turkey. This rock has evolved over time to meet specific requirements. It was most influenced by the climate (very hot, dry summers and too cold winters), lifestyle (sedentary, semi-nomadic and nomadic) and duties (guarding herds and moving them over long distances across the Central Anatolian plateau).
Description of the external parameters of the Anatolian Shepherd breed
This variety, with its roots in the ancient mastiffs of the Middle East, is an impressive sight to behold. Males are 68, 58–78, 75 cm tall at the withers and weigh from 49, 89 to 68 kilograms, bitches are slightly smaller, 66–76, 2 centimeters tall and weigh from 40, 82 to 58, 96 kilograms. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a sturdy and powerful animal. This real heavyweight, cocky, but at the same time confident and calm.
- Head - large, heavy and wide, flat between the ears with a moderate furrow between the eyes. The skull should be in proportion to the size of the dog's body.
- Muzzle - square. The lips are black with strong teeth that show the precise bite of the scissors.
- Nose - pronounced, dark brown or black.
- Eyes - somewhat small compared to the size of the dog, but give the impression of an intelligent and sharp-sighted guard who takes his duties seriously. They are slightly spaced and almond-shaped, set deep and should be a rich brown or golden amber color.
- Ears Anatolian Shepherd Dogs of medium length, drooping, triangular in shape, falling on the front of the head.
- Neck - well developed and powerful, somewhat arched with a slight suspension.
- Frame - proportional, rectangular. The chest is deep and the belly is slightly tucked up. The level of the top passes into the muscular back, forms a slope towards the croup.
- Tail - high and long, rolled up in a ring.
- Hind limbs - powerful and well developed. The front ones are strong and straight.
- Paws - oval, have well-curved fingers and strong claws.
- Coat Anatolian Shepherd Dog ranges from short (2.5 cm) to elongated (10, 15 cm) length. The texture of the hair is flat and should not be wavy or curly. A thick undercoat is present and the coat around the neck is slightly thicker. The fur lies close to the body; some featheriness may appear on the ears, legs and tail.
- Coloration - all sorts of, but the desired color: solid with tan or fawn with a dark mask and ears.
Anatolian Shepherd Temperament
Bred to guard large herds of livestock without human guidance or assistance, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog developed as independent and powerful dogs that had to make unmistakable decisions on their own. Being a herding breed, such pets spend all the time with their "wards" and desperately guard them from any possible threats. They are dominant and stubborn at times. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are smart and fast, however they sometimes do not obey commands. Despite their tendency towards freedom of thought and immutability, these dogs are loyal and protective guardians of their home, as well as people and animals in it.
Specially developed as a working breed and not a pet or family companion, the Anatolian Shepherd takes its responsibilities very seriously and is therefore difficult to keep at home. Due to their independent nature and natural instincts for dominance, these canines are not recommended for those who have no experience with dogs, as they are difficult to handle or control.
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are fierce, large, impetuous and hardy. They will try to take responsibility for housekeeping if they do not have a firm and strong leader. Owners who do not understand canine nature and "pack order" will soon find themselves in secondary roles, and their household will be led by a dog that is strong in both mind and body. The Anatolian shepherd dog needs a self-confident and perfect master who can take responsibility and educate it correctly.
The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal family member, protective and loving, often not aggressive towards family members and housemates. However, the dog can be aggressive towards strangers and other animals. With an independent nature, the dog will decide for himself who is a safe visitor and who is not. Preparing early will help to keep defensive aggression to a minimum and to treat all visitors correctly. The Anatolian shepherd dog should not be considered friendly or shy. They are reserved and, as a rule, do not like to be overly disturbed, so you should develop tolerance in dogs.
With strangers or animals that, according to the decision of the Anatolian Shepherd, are a threat, dogs behave confidently and defiantly. They will not attack arbitrarily, but only based on the perceived threat level. Pets are closely related to the children in the family, however strangers can be viewed as a "risk" and the breed should always be closely monitored when interacting with all children.
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs have a strong "family attraction" that forms attachments to the family and other pets living in the household. On the other hand, they will not share their guarding duties and may try to dominate another dog living in the house, which has the same nature and instincts. Because of its strong protective properties, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog may exhibit appropriate behavior in the belief that it is responsible for the safety of the herd itself, and should not share this responsibility with another individual.
As guardian, the anatolian shepherd dog will patrol the boundaries of its perceived territory on a daily basis. Pets are often reclining in the yard, and it may seem that they are at rest and do nothing at all, but the truth is that dogs simply choose a good vantage point to constantly observe everything that happens. The Anatolian Shepherd will announce new arrivals with loud signal barks. The dog will often stand between an unknown visitor and the owner's property entrance. As soon as a warning is given, the dog becomes silent and further observes its surroundings and visitors. Guests must always be accompanied by the owner.
Health features of the Anatolian Shepherd
This herding species usually shows reasonably good health. Their average lifespan is 12 to 15 years, which is several years longer than other breeds of the same size. Cancer is the predominant cause of death in Anatolian Shepherd Dogs, along with heart problems and old age. In general, representatives of the species are not immune to certain characteristic flaws.
A common health problem found in the breed is low immunity. The anatolian shepherd dog's immune system develops later than that of other canines. Additional doses of Parvo vaccine can prevent these troubles from developing. The Anatolian shepherd is also very sensitive to anesthesia and must be monitored and tested before injecting it.
Possible health problems that can develop in the Anatolian Shepherd Dog may include: hypothyroidism, entropion of the eyelids, dispersion of the spine, dermatological problems.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Care Requirements
- Wool naturally pure in this herding species. But, their "coat" and skin will require some care in maintaining. The hair of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog is short to medium in length, practically odorless and does not fall out too much. Of course, in reality, such a pet has an undercoat, and the animal will seasonally renew its "fur coat", only moderately throughout the year, and more than twice a year. During this time of excessive hair loss, the coat of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog should be brushed thoroughly, preferably on a daily basis. For the rest of the year, it can be easily maintained with weekly brushing. The breed generally does not have the typical "dog scent" and should only be bathed as needed several times throughout the year.
- Teeth such a large dog, as well as a small dog, require basic hygiene procedures. Only to accustom them to this is the age of the puppy. Indeed, with a large adult pet, you will no longer be able to do this, and then the animal will be threatened with various diseases in the oral cavity. To brush your teeth gently, you need to buy a brush with silicone bristles, which will not hurt the gums. The pet will be interested in professional toothpaste with food flavors. The manipulation is carried out less often, once a week. Eating dry food for a four-legged friend, and occasionally chewing pressed bones, will help prevent the formation of plaque.
- Ears Anatolian Shepherd Dogs hang and are therefore susceptible to infections. They must be cleaned regularly to prevent the development of such health problems. Poor ventilation due to the natural characteristics of these ears contributes to the rapid accumulation of wax and dirt. By regularly observing hygiene procedures, you will protect your pet from such problems. There are all kinds of drugs for this: in the form of sprays, gels and herbal droplets. All of them are selected individually for each pet. Some individuals are frightened by the hissing sound of the spray, while others do not like the smell. Whatever you choose, apply the product inside the auricle, and then wipe the outside with a cotton sponge from the dirt that has separated. No ear sticks are used to climb into the ear, as you push the accumulated "deposits" even deeper than cause no less problems.
- Eyes It is very important for these shepherd dogs to be carefully examined after the dogs return from the pasture. Ingress of dust or particles of soil can cause irritation and can be easily removed by wiping with pharmaceutical preparations. Scratches, bumps and cuts in the eye are extremely dangerous. All of them cause complications that lead to visual impairment or complete blindness. Only a veterinary narrow-profile specialist, with the help of professional equipment, will be able to diagnose and then prescribe treatment.
- Claws all dogs large and small, if their length exceeds the norm, must be cut off. In pets that receive less stress, they grow back faster and therefore are processed more often. In Anatolian Shepherd Dogs, the claws are quite hard, so they can be cut down with a file or natfil.
- Feeding herding dogs that are kept on farms, their owners prefer natural. This does not mean that the dog should be fed with only meat or porridge and vice versa. Croup should be twenty percent of the total diet. In addition, the animal is given offal, fermented milk products, some eggs. Must be purchased in vitamin and mineral supplements and fish oil. For the prevention of diseases of the bone apparatus, chondroprotectors are given in courses. Dry food in all respects is much more convenient and probably more effective for the body of a four-legged friend. They already contain all prophylactic drugs and nutrients in the required ratio. Such food does not need to be prepared and has a long shelf life. You just need to observe the correct portion and provide access to water.
- Walking. Despite being a giant breed, the requirements for keeping the Anatolian Shepherd are not as overwhelming as other dogs of comparable size. The breed is quite inactive indoors, however, pets will still need time and regular walks to keep them healthy. Unlike the companion dog species, these are working animals. Ball games and trips to the park do not suit these dogs. The exercise for the anatolian shepherd dog should always include obedience training, tracking, cart-pulling or sledging training. In the absence of the necessary loads, this shepherd will become bored, which will lead to destructive behavior, and an animal of this size can quickly destroy everything in the house.
Due to the impressive parameters, loud voice and the need for physical activity, pets are not recommended for an apartment or a small house. Farms or ranches are ideal locations for the species, which will give it ample patrolling and guarding space. The yard must be fenced. Species do better when they have a job, no matter what it is.
In general, Anatolian Shepherds are large dogs with a pleasant temperament. They are closely related to the family and are independent but protective and loyal companions. They are working animals that completely transfer their instincts and responsibilities to work in order to remain mentally stimulated.
Raising an Anatolian Shepherd
The best training methods for the Anatolian Shepherd Dog breed are those based on motivation. The owner must approach training with firmness, confidence, consistency and love. The dog seeks affection, praise and is very sensitive to cruelty. When preparing an Anatolian Shepherd Dog, a harsh correction should never be applied. A breed is more likely to respond well or even change its behavior when it feels like it is in a loving, safe and secure environment where it can grow and learn. Adults are too strong and abuse will force the pet to defend itself, which can lead to tragedy.
Because the dogs have been taught to care for the flock like their family, and therefore they desperately protect them from harm. The security data is innate and rapidly evolving so that the pet becomes a well-adjusted dog that understands its place. In the family "herd order" the Anatolian Shepherd should be taught to understand that it is lower in the hierarchy than all the people living in the house. This ensures that the dog's natural instincts do not become overdeveloped and lead to dominant or possessive behavior, which is highly undesirable for such a large animal.
Because the “guardian impulse” has developed so strongly in the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, early socialization is of paramount importance. Exposure to new people, places, animals and things will help the dog feel completely safe and develop healthy and well-adapted, not overly protective despite its nature. The species will view all strangers and animals as intruders and can guard family and property if they deem it necessary.
The species is always in "defense mode" and stray or unknown animals that approach the property will be seriously injured or even killed. Attack training is not recommended for the breed, as the autonomous nature and mind does not allow attacking on command unless it sees fit to attack. In addition, if severely irritated, it can become uncontrollable and difficult to stop with a command.
Price of Anatolian Shepherd puppies
The price of a puppy is $ 500-1000. For more interesting information about the content of the breed, see the video below:
