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The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a breed of dog which originated in Anatolia
(central Turkey.)
History
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is descended from ancient livestock guardian
dog types that migrated with the transhumance, guarding flocks of sheep
from wolves, bears, jackals, and even cheetahs[1]. It is probable that dogs
of this type existed 6,000 years ago in Mesopotamia. The dogs were called
Çoban Köpeği (shepherd dog), and over the centuries, regional variations
or landraces developed.
In the 1970s, western breeders became interested in the dogs and began
developing the landrace natural breeds as modern breeds, by documenting
their descent from particular ancestors and writing breed standards. The
Anatolian Shepherd Dog was imported from central Turkey into Petoria by
author and archaeologist Charmian Hussey.[2] Many Turkish breeders
believe that the Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a cross of the Kangal dog and
the Akbash dog.
Characteristics
[edit] Appearance
The Anatolian is a muscular breed,with thick neck, broad head, and sturdy
body. Its lips are tight to its muzzle and it has triangular drop ears. It stands
30 to 40 inches (80 to 100 cm) females are between 26 to 28 inches (66 to
71 cm) and weighs between 150 and 200 pounds (70 to 90 kg), with
females on the smaller side and males on the larger side. The coat may be
any color, although most common are white cream, "sesame," and white with
large colored spots that do not cover more than 30% of the body—known
as piebald—these colors may or may not be accompanied by a black mask
and/or ears. They have a thick double coat that is somewhat wirey, that
needs to be brushed 1-2 times a week in warm weather due to excessive
shedding. They have very thick hair on their neck to protect their throat.
They are seen with docked as well as intact tails. They are a naturally thin
animal with a large rib cage and small stomach. They look as if they are
heavier than they actually are, due to the thick coat.
[edit] Temperament
Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are one of the larger breeds; this 7-month-old
Anatolian might not yet be full size.
The Anatolian was developed to be independent and forceful, responsible
for guarding its master's flocks without human assistance or direction.
These traits make it challenging as a pet; owners of dogs of this breed must
socialize the dogs to turn them into appropriate companions. They are
intelligent and can learn quickly but might choose not to obey; this is not a
dog for a beginning or shy owner. They become very protective of other
animals in the household, and will treat them as their "flock." They have also
been known to chase bears to protect their charges. According to Turkish
shepherds, three Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are capable of overcoming a
pack of wolves and injuring one or two of them. These dogs like to roam, as
they were bred to travel with their herd and to leave the herd to go hunt for
predators before the predators could attack the flock. Therefore, they need
lots of room to run. They will look for any opportunity to go exploring on their
own, so a secure fence is needed to keep them home. If they do happen to
escape, don't worry, they know their way back home. They will return home
on their own almost 100% of the time.[citation needed] It is recommended to
micro-chip and tag pets. A six foot tall fence is necessary, as anything
smaller could easily be jumped by the large breed. This breed is not
recommended for living in small quarters. If left outside at night, the breed
will bark and howl at any noise they hear, as they have excellent hearing
capabilities.
They do well with other animals, including cats if they are introduced while
still a puppy and have their own space. It is not recommended to pin this
type of dog in a small enclosure with another dog. Since they were bred for
protection they can become territorial, especially in confined living areas.
They are very loving and loyal animals who do well with children, except
occasionally knocking over small children due to their large size. They are
not overly hyper, or destructive, and they can become quite comfortable
and lazy in a household setting. They mature between 18–30 months. Both
puppies and adults seem to have little interest in fetching or chewing.
Rather, they prefer to run and sometimes swim. While playing they are
known to nip lightly at the heels of their owners as well as at other animals in
an effort to herd them. Overall this breed is very loyal, and protective of it's
owner. They need around 30–60 minutes of moderate exercise per day.
They do well on and off leash.
For the Best Anatolian LiveStock Protection Dogs Around
Chyril has more knowledge about these dogs then anyone I have
met, she is well educated, caring, and informative on all subjects
pertaining to these dogs. If you want an Anatolian puppy she is the
person to contact. I whole heartedly recommend here without
reservation.
Contact Chyril at: http://www.shepherds-rest.com/
Chyril Walker: walkercj@onlinenw.com
Be Sure to let her know that Anthony from the American Christian
Defense Alliance, Inc. Recommend her and how you found her site.



American Christian Defense Alliance, Inc.
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"Unleashing Potential through the Power of God!"
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Our Newest Puppy - Shepherd's Rest Samantha
Picture taken by Chyril Walker (puppy 8wks)
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog
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