Overview
The Aksaray Malaklısı is a large livestock guardian from Aksaray Province in central Anatolia, Turkey. It is also called the Turkish Mastiff or Anatolian Lion, and the Turkish Dog Federation recognises it.
In its homeland it guards flocks against predators, particularly wolves. Some have been exported, where they work as guardians or serve as household watchdogs.
History
The breed is named for Aksaray Province in central Anatolia, where shepherds have long relied on big, tough dogs to protect their flocks.
Genetic analysis has shown it to be distinct from the other Turkish livestock guardians such as the Kangal, Akbash and Kars dogs. A working pair, always a male and a female, is said to be able to guard seven to eight hundred sheep.
Appearance
A massive, powerful dog standing about 70 to 85 cm at the withers and weighing 60 to 85 kg. The head and ears are large and the jowls hang loosely, which is said to give the breed its name, since malaklı refers to the pendulous lips.
The coat is short and usually grey with a black mask, and the tail is straight.
Temperament
The Aksaray Malaklısı is a serious, confident guardian. It tends to obey its master alone and can be aggressive toward people it does not know, so it is not a breed for novices.
It often does not tolerate other dogs of the same sex. It needs an experienced owner who can supply firm, fair leadership and early, careful socialisation.
Care and exercise
This dog needs a lot of space, a secure high fence and a job or territory to watch over. It is not suited to flat or crowded urban living.
The short coat is simple to care for with a weekly brush, more often in the seasonal shed. Steady daily activity and strong training from puppyhood are essential for such a large, strong dog.
Health
Little breed-specific data exists. As with other giant guardian dogs, joint problems such as hip dysplasia and bloat are concerns, so weight control and careful feeding are sensible.
