Overview
The Kangal Shepherd Dog is a traditional Turkish guardian breed named after the town and district of Kangal in Sivas Province. It is kept with sheep to ward off wolves and other predators.
In the United States, dogs descended from Turkish guardians, mainly Kangals, are called Anatolian Shepherd Dogs.
History
The Kangal has long worked with Central Anatolian shepherds. Its older name was Karabash, meaning blackhead. The FCI accepted it in 1989, and the UK Kennel Club recognised it in 2013.
An American line began in 1967 when Robert Ballard brought two Turkish guardians home. A long dispute over breed purity followed, though American imports are now almost entirely Kangals.
Since 1994 the Cheetah Conservation Fund has given hundreds of Kangals to farmers in Namibia and Kenya, cutting livestock losses and the killing of cheetahs.
Appearance
A large, powerful dog. Males stand about 72 to 78 cm and females 65 to 73 cm. Males weigh roughly 48 to 60 kg and females 40 to 50 kg. The coat is moderately short and double, with a dense undercoat and waterproof outer layer, in pale fawn to wolf grey with a black mask.
Temperament
A serious, self-reliant guardian that is devoted to its flock and family and wary of strangers. It is brave and decisive when predators appear, and it is calm and watchful the rest of the time.
Care and exercise
It needs space, a secure fence, early socialisation and a confident, consistent owner. It is happiest with a job to do and is not suited to small flats. Brush weekly and more often when shedding.
