Anatolian Shepherds
The other names of the Anatolian Shepherds are the Goban Kopegi and Anatolian Karabash Dogs. Possibly, these dogs have Molosser ancestry. They originated about 6,000 years ago from the Anatolian Plateau in Turkey, the place believed to be the birthplace of human society. The original purposes of these dogs were herding the cattle and guarding the house and the property. Anatolian Shepherds have always been selected for independence, strength and size. The desired colors of these dogs were the same with the livestock they protected. Anatolian Shepherd dogs guarded the livestock in remote areas and had to make decisions independently.
Nowadays, these dogs are known for their faithfulness, loyalty and independence, which make them excellent guards and watchdogs. They are still used for protecting the property and working with cattle. Anatolian Shepherds are found on many farms and ranches in the USA. Though very quiet and tolerant, these dogs are rarely used as pets because of their large size. If a puppy was raised as a family pet, it will never be able to work with the livestock. That’s why the owner should determine the future purpose of the Anatolian Shepherd dog from the time it’s born.
As for the temperament of the breed, Anatolian Shepherds are usually even and calm, but when they have to defend the property against predators or intruders, they are bold and quick-witted. This breed is highly territorial, intelligent, courageous and alert, but never aggressive. Being natural guards, Anatolian Shepherds are not happy when kept indoors without a task to do. It’s problematic to keep such a large and heavily coated animal in an apartment; country life is ideal for a dog of this breed.
Anatolian Shepherds are usually good with children. They probably see no difference between the livestock and the children and will protect any living being that belongs to the owner and lives in the house. Children have to be respective with these giant dogs. Playing chase and tug-of-war with giant dogs is not the best idea. Being very independent and dominating, Anatolian Shepherd dogs don’t tolerate other large dogs, but do well with smaller canines and cats. Training and socializing a puppy of this breed may be a problem, but adult Anatolian Shepherds quickly adapt to the new family.
