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| Version | User | Scope of changes |
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| Feb 2 2007, 6:22 PM EST (current) | GoldenRetrieverLover | 367 words added, 4 photos added |
| Feb 2 2007, 6:20 PM EST | GoldenRetrieverLover |
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Short History of the Breed
An ancient breed that dates back more than 6,000 years, the Anatolian shepherd dog is closely related to the Tibetan mastiff and the Roman’s famed Mollossian war hounds. Sometimes called Turkish Guard dogs, these canines are forever praised and loved by shepherds. Of a rugged and powerful build, the animal has been bred to thrive in the cold winters and hot, dry summers of the Anatolian plateau. Loyal, independent, and hardy, these dogs excel as guardians of both home and flock.
Starting in 1968, the Anatolian shepherd dog began to be introduced in the United States and by 1970 a successful breeding program was established.Vergil praises them.
The Anatolian Shepherd is a large muscular dog. Males grow from 28 to 30 inches in height with weight ranging from 100 to a 150 lbs. The female Anatolian is of slightly smaller stature of 26 to 28 inches and only 90 to 130 lbs in weight.
Temperament
The Anatolian shepherd is alert and intelligent and very courageous. As an outstanding shepherd, the Anatolian tends to have a calm and observant temperament, the kind that does not frighten the sheep. However, since the animal is bred to be a guardian, special care needs to be taken to socialize him to other animals and to introduce him to strangers. The Anatolian makes an excellent guard dog.
Grooming, Exercise & Diet
The Anatolian is a working dog and requires much exercise. A fenced yard is practically a requirement for this breed.Health Issues and Life Expectancy
A well cared for Anatolian shepherd can be expected to live for 12 to 15 years.Eyelid entropion and hypothyroidism occurs in some of the animals, though hip
dysplasia is not as common as with other large breeds. They are sensitive to anesthesia and puppies should be given extra vaccinations against parvo-virus, since their immunity develops more slowly than other breeds.