The Akbash Dog is native to western Turkey and parts of the
Armenian highlands, and it is primarily used as a livestock guardian dog or
shepherd dog. It is officially recognized by the KIF, a.k.a. the Turkish Kennel
Club. This dog is one of the national dog breeds of Turkey and the historically
Armenian lands.
Appearance
The
Akbash is a large dog, weighing from 75 to 140 pounds (34 to 64 kg), averaging
90 pounds for the female, and 120 pounds for the male. Akbash dogs range from
about 27 to 32 inches (69 to 81 cm) tall. The Akbash tends to be leaner than
other Turkish livestock guardian dog breeds (Kangal and Anatolian Shepherd),
and some Akbash dogs may also be taller.
The
Akbash has a smooth-short to medium-full white double coat (sometimes with
light biscuit coloring at the ears). The dogs have long legs, a tail that curls
and is frequently feathered, and pink skin blotched with black or
blackish-brown under the white coat. Eye rims, nose and lips should be
completely black or blackish-brown, but they may also be lighter, especially
during cold winter months.
Akbash
Dog genetics may derive from a combination of molosser and sighthound breeds
since they possess characteristics of both types. Although there is a great
deal of variation in size and height of individuals, Akbash Dogs have a
reputation for being tall with long, strong, flexible bodies. They have loose
skin around their necks to help protect them from predators during fights.
Heads can range from medium to heavy, though medium is preferred. Purebred
Akbash Dogs may or may not be born with rear double dewclaws. Lack of, or
possession of rear double dewclaws in an Akbash is no indication of recent
interbreeding with other livestock guardian breeds nor any other breeds.
Some
people suggest that the Akbash and the Kangal Dog were originally distinct,
pure Turkish breeds, and that they were combined to create the Anatolian
Shepherd Dog. There still exists controversy on this subject. Akbash Dogs
should be easy to recognize next to Kangals and Anatolian Shepherds because of
their white appearance, although some Anatolian Shepherds may resemble the
Akbash or the Kangal.
Currently,
it is legal to export Akbash Dogs from Turkey but not Kangal Dogs. Kangals are
considered the national dog breed of Turkey.
The
Akbash Dog is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) but is
recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and by the FCI as of 2015. Akbash
Dogs may be shown in American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) shows, and in
International All Breed Canine Association (IABCA) shows.
Temperament
The
Akbash personality tends to be calm and aware. As a breed, it is not shy, nor
is it aggressive. When used as a protection dog, it is suspicious of strangers
in its territory, and any unusual sounds or changes in the environment. The
breed is not naturally hostile, and is instead, naturally discerning, bred to
think independently. The Akbash can be powerful against predators, yet, when
properly exposed, be gentle with newborn lambs and goat kids. The usual first
means of protection by an Akbash is to warn potential threats by posturing,
barking and/or growling. The Akbash will chase away a predator, or engage in
physical combat if necessary.
Although
the Akbash is frequently mistakenly referred to as being a herding dog, they do
not chase and round up livestock. Akbash Dogs should never chase livestock
although occasionally they may move their charges away from danger. The Akbash
Dog is one of the more popular of about 30 breeds worldwide of Flock Guardians,
Livestock Protection Dogs, or Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGDs).
In
their role as livestock guardian dogs, Akbash Dogs frequently spend long hours
lying with flocks or herds. The Akbash is a relatively low energy breed,
although they are said to always be thinking and taking in what is happening
around them (and that they "sleep with one eye open"). They regularly
patrol the perimeters of their territories; listening, scenting and seeing
beyond any fence lines. Like their sighthound ancestors, the vision of Akbash
Dogs is excellent. They reserve much of their physical energy for possible
encounters with predators.
When
protecting their charges they have tremendous power, focus, endurance and
perseverance. Their great speed, loose neck skin, flexible bodies and bounding
athleticism give them the physical edge they need to excel as livestock
protection dogs. Most predators will not openly confront a working Akbash Dog.
To avoid injuries to livestock protection dogs, and to better protect flocks
and herds, more than one dog should be used in many working situations.
Predators are less likely to challenge several protection dogs than a single
dog. This is especially important when wolf packs, grizzlies and cougars are
the prevalent threats.
The
Akbash is uncommon as a companion dog. When trained appropriately from
puppyhood on, they will get along with other domestic species. Since the Akbash
has been bred to think on its own, dogs of this breed can be a challenge to
train for obedience exercises. They have been bred not to chase their charges,
so they tend not to be as interested in chasing balls or in games of fetch.
They prefer large areas and may become discontent and exhibit problem
behaviors, like escaping or being destructive, if relegated to a pen or small
yard. Akbash Dogs require tall secure fencing for best containment. The Akbash
is not a dog for everyone. It is a working breed and is happiest when given a
job compatible to its breeding, or at the least, when kept mentally engaged.
These dogs are known for their intelligence, bravery, independence and loyalty.
Health
Akbash
Dogs, like many large breeds, can be expected to live 10 to 11 years on
average, with some living much longer. Akbash Dogs are capable of bonding very
closely with their owners and other animals and can display a range of emotions
and sensitivity unlike many other breeds. Like other breeds, they are
susceptible to various infectious diseases and conditions to varying degrees.
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