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The Akbash Dog is an ancient breed originating in Turkey where he was used to guard livestock. It is believed that his ancestry was influenced by both Sighthound and Mastiff breeds. Though a large dog, he moves with surprising speed and agility, able to run at great speed with a gazelle-like grace. He also has an acute sense of sight and hearing.
The Akbash Dog learns quickly; however, he can be easily bored with repetitive obedience training exercises so may not be the ideal candidate for Obedience competition. He responds best to people he respects, and that respect must be earned by treating him fairly and consistently and by establishing the hierarchy.
He is naturally calm but can display ferocity when protecting property or livestock. His aloofness toward strangers, loyalty, affection, complete dedication and devotion to his family and any animals in his charge make him the ideal guard dog. He has an independent nature yet a very loyal and protective instinct.
Another characteristic of the Akbash Dog is, both males and females, have a strong maternal instinct, especially toward small and young animals and children. The Akbash will bond to whatever he is raised with. This is why it is always suggested that the working Akbash pup be placed with the livestock he will eventually be expected to protect.
There are two major coat types with variations in between: A medium, smooth coat of one to three inches in length; and a longer coat that may grow to six to eight inches. Both types have a coarse outer coat that is non-matting, and a softer, shorter undercoat.
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Health Issues in the Akbash Dog breed:
Although the Akbash Dog is generally a healthy breed, the following conditions can occur:
While some of these conditions may be influenced by environmental and/or nutritional factors, others can be of a hereditary nature. If you are considering the adoption of a Akbash puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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Training Resources:
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Additional Information:
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — Information on various dog sports and activities, including Obedience and Agility, as well as listings to dog clubs from across Canada.
- Working Dogs — Section covering several dog jobs, including Herding, Protection work, Search and Rescue, Assistance Dogs, and more.
- Akbash Dog — A Turkish Breed for Home and Agriculture — Akbash Dog Association of America, Inc.
- Akbash Dogs: A Breed Apart — By Judith Nelson (Judith Nelson and her husband David introduced the Akbash Dog to the United States in 1978.)
- The Akbash Dog Homepage
- Turkish Dogs World Wide Web Site — Read about the spectacular native dog breeds of Turkey.
- Working Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGD) — What is their Job?
- Livestock Guardian Dogs: Their Current Use Worldwide by Robin Rigg (PDF Format)
- Livestock Guardian Dogs Factsheet — From the Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food & Rural Revitalization (PDF Format)
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Odessa Rengi
