Anatolian Shepherd

Despite their independent and prideful temperament, Anatolian Shepherds appreciate demonstrations of affection and are very close to their social group.

Cordial with children and friendly to all members of their social group, this dog enjoys spending time with his or her adoptive family and, when they are puppies, the Anatolian Shepherd can be playful. However, their temperament weakens considerably with age.

Wise by nature, quiet strength characterises this powerful and tender mountain beast very well. With their family, they are gentle, reliable and even patient with children.

Like many sheepdogs, the Anatolian Shepherd is particularly intelligent and docile, and has good working skills, especially in sheep guarding, where this dog shows great initiative.

As much more of a guardian than a hunter, the Karabash, as it is otherwise called, does not have a highly developed hunting instinct. Their ancestral role as herdsmen leads this dog to respect other animals, unless they are a danger to their lives or their family of course.

This dog is highly distant from strangers, although friendly when familiar people cross their territory. In the absence of their masters, they let no one in and are distrustful of everyone.

Its official standard describes this Turkish guard dog as highly independent, proud and confident but docile and very intelligent.

Although very close to their social group and affectionate towards them, Anatolian Shepherd dogs are able to remain alone at home where they take their role as guardian very seriously.
 
Nevertheless, absences should not be prolonged and, above all, before and after each period of solitude, this Anatolian Sheepdog must benefit from physical and mental exercise.

The Kangal, as this dog may also be known, is considered to be an intelligent and docile dog, even if it is very independent. This temperament often does not coincide with a high level of obedience and yet, for a hound, this dog is particularly receptive.
 
For their education to be successful, it is necessary to begin training from a young age in order to prevent the Anatolian Shepherd puppy from developing bad habits.
 
Be careful never to seek any kind of power relationship with this giant dog as they could quickly begin to consider their master as an incoherent and disrespectful being and therefore stop any form of cooperation.
 
To overcome their occasionally stubborn side, it is necessary to be firm, consistent and self-confident to build a strong relationship. Concessions must be avoided while fostering an education that respects the principles of positive education.

It should be noted that obedience for this dog is a deliberate, unconditioned act. Therefore, commands must be fair and sensible in order to achieve results.

Barking is this dog's main deterrent technique. So, when they sense danger, they don't hesitate to raise their voice. Good training helps to avoid unnecessary barking.