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Anatolian Shepherd

Anatolian Shepherd is a giant working breed from Turkey also known as Anatolian Shepherd Dog, Coban Kopegi, Turkish Shepherd.

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Breed overview

Anatolian Shepherd is a giant working breed from Turkey also known as Anatolian Shepherd Dog, Coban Kopegi, Turkish Shepherd.

Ancient livestock guardian breed from Turkey, developed over 6,000 years ago to protect flocks from wolves, bears, and jackals in the harsh Anatolian plateau. They can work independently for days without human supervision.

People looking into Anatolian Shepherd usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 90–150 lbs • 26–31 in.

Anatolian Shepherd DogCoban KopegiTurkish Shepherd

History and origin

Anatolian Shepherd is tied to originating from Turkey, specifically Anatolia, with sources often placing its development around 4000 BCE.

Anatolian Shepherd is described here as placed in the working group and marked as an established breed.

Ancient livestock guardian breed from Turkey, developed over 6,000 years ago to protect flocks from wolves, bears, and jackals in the harsh Anatolian plateau. They can work independently for days without human supervision.

Browse dog breeds from Turkey Browse more working breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
working
Size
Giant
Origin country
Turkey
Region
Anatolia
Origin year
4000 BCE
Weight
90–150 lbs
Height
26–31 in
Lifespan
11–13 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
2 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Moderate exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 2/5

Coat and classification

Anatolian Shepherd is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortThickWeather Resistant

Anatolian Shepherd is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Large, powerful guardian breed with rectangular build
  • Dense double coat in various colors, often fawn with black mask
  • Broad head with triangular drop ears
  • Confident, alert expression with dark brown eyes

What this breed is known for

  • Ancient livestock guardian breed from Turkey, developed over 6,000 years ago to protect flocks from wolves, bears, and jackals in the harsh Anatolian plateau. They can work independently for days without human supervision.
  • Famous for their incredible endurance and ability to go without food and water for extended periods while guarding flocks. They can travel up to 50 miles in a day patrolling their territory.
  • Used worldwide in conservation programs to protect endangered species from predators. In Namibia, they guard livestock from cheetahs, reducing human-wildlife conflict and helping save the cheetah population.

Health and care notes

Anatolian Shepherd is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Entropion
  • Bloat

Coat details: Short, Thick, Weather Resistant

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Anatolian Shepherd come from?

Anatolian Shepherd is closely associated with Turkey, especially Anatolia in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Anatolian Shepherd get?

Typical size details for Anatolian Shepherd on this page are 90–150 lbs, 26–31 in, 11–13 years.

What is the Anatolian Shepherd known for?

Ancient livestock guardian breed from Turkey, developed over 6,000 years ago to protect flocks from wolves, bears, and jackals in the harsh Anatolian plateau. They can work independently for days without human supervision.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Anatolian Shepherd reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.