Group: Not AKC recognized
Other Registries: UKC (Guardian Dog)
Weight: Male 90-140 lb (41-64 kg)/Females 75-105 lb (34-48 kg)
Height: Male 28-34 (71-86 cm)/Female 27-32 in (69-81 cm)
Color: White
Origin: Turkey
Akbash Overview
A beautiful, stylish and relatively rare dog breed. The Akbash dates back more than 3000 years. They originated in western Turkey and were developed to accompany shepherds as livestock guardians. They were bred selectively for their white coloring which makes them distinguishable from predators. The breed was first introduced into the United States during the 1970′s. The Akbash breed was recognized by the UKC in 1998.
Akbash Characteristics
The Akbash is striking in appearance and has a proud and graceful demeanor. The breed has the power, courage and size to challenge and chase predators. Their guardian qualities are instinctive and they will avidly protect their family and territory. The Akbash is an alert, affectionate and loyal dog.
Akbash Temperament
This dog can make a wonderful pet and does well with older children and other pets, provided that they are socialized at an early age. They are an affectionate, loyal and gentle dogbreed. Akbash’s are excellent guardians, and watchdogs and a delightful addition to most households. They tend to respond antagonistically toward intruding canines and strangers, and will remain suspicious and aloof for a while. This breed is not ideally suitable for first-time dog owners. novice handlers or young children.
Akbash Care
To keep shedding to a minimum, these dogs require frequent brushing. Bathing is rarely required as the breed very seldom emits odor. They should only be bathed when absolutely essential. A gentle shampoo should be used to preserve the weather-resistant coat. Dry shampoo will normally suffice. The breed is known to suffer from hip dysplasia and OCD.
Akbash Coat
The Akbash Dog has a double coat consisting of longer, coarse, outer guard hairs and dense undercoat made up of soft, fine hair. Thickness of the undercoat varies significantly with the climate and exposure of the dog to weather. The Akbash Dog normally sheds its undercoat annually. There are two coat lengths:
- Medium Coat. The body hair is short to medium in length and lies flat giving a sleek, racy appearance to the dog. There is a slight ruff. There may be a slight feathering on the forelegs, thighs, and tail.
- Long Coat. The body coatis distinctly longer than on the medium-coated dog. The hair is often slightly wavy, but is never curled or matted. There is a distinct ruff and profuse feathering on the forelegs, thighs, and tail.
In both types, the hair on the muzzle, ears, and paws is shorter than the body coat. Both types of coats are non-matting and climate resistant. The Akbash is an above average shedder.
Akbash Training
Akbash Dogs have been bred for centuries to evaluate a situation and make decisions concerning their flock’s safety. It is their nature to take charge of their environment and they have the ability to think independently. For this reason the Akbash is bet suited to an experienced dog handler. If kept solely as a companion, the Akbash requires early, intensive and regular socialization. This breed has an impartial character and will often hesitate momentarily when given commands by their handler. The Akbash breed matures slowly and responds best to firmness, fairness and consistency.
Akbash Activity
Given the size of the breed, they are not well-suited to apartment living. A securely fenced yard or a rural setting where they’re able to roam. is ideal. Bred as a working dog, the Akbash thrives on having a job to do, but they also make excellent companions.
Akbash Video
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Akbash Dog Breed: A Brave Guardian Dog
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