Other Names: Coban Köpegi, Karabash

Country of Origin: The Anatolian Shepherd originated in Turkey

Height: males 28-30 inches (71-76 cm.) female 26-28 inches (66-71 cm.)

Weight: males 100-150 pounds (45-68 kg.) females 90-130 pounds (41-59 kg.)

Description: Anatolian Shepherds are large and noble with large heads and thick muscular necks. Their necks have a slight dewlap. Anatolian Shepherds have rectangular muzzles and straight legs, with their chest reaching to their elbows. Their tail is carried over their back when they are alert, otherwise it is carried low with a slight curl. The Anatolian Shepherd is in the Working group.

Coat: The Anatolian Shepherd requires little brushing, except bi-annually when it sheds heavily.

Temperament: Alert and protective, the Anatolian Shepherd is very possessive of its family and home and is suspicious of strangers. Though Anatolian Shepherds are easy to train and highly intelligent they are not for beginners and require a firm handler. Anatolian Shepherds only reach full maturity at around 4 years of age.

Health Concerns: Anatolian Shepherds are susceptible to eyelid entropion, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, they are sensitive to anesthesia. The Anatolian Shepherd's immunity often takes longer to develop than with many other breeds

and therefore young Anatolians should be given extra vaccinations against parvo-virus.

Life Expectancy: The life expectancy of the Anatolian Shepherd is about 12-15 years.

Living Environment: Anatolian Shepherds are not suited for apartment life and require large fenced yards or wide open spaces in order to meet their exercise needs.