Oasis Anatolians
You’re interested in adding an Anatolian Shepherd to your family.
We got our first one when our six kids were ranging from ages 2-16. Our female Anatolian would be asleep in the living room floor, and when any of our kids would walk through the living room and go outside; she rose immediately and would bark at the door communicating to me, “Let me out, my kids just went outside.” And she would go lay near where they played facing outward watching over them. We would see her put herself in between the kids and strangers. Not barking, but fiercely observing and letting them know, “I’m not ready for you to come closer yet.”
Our male is very similar, but much more protective. And he wants to let you know beforehand that he sees you. He takes a lot of pride in keeping the 5 acres clear and safe. Any animal that steps foot in property if it’s in range of his collar, he will most likely kill. I am very watchful over what comes in our yard, because he is a really large and powerful animal. You have to be very responsible when owning an animal like a male Anatolian. They can easily hurt or kill another animal. That’s my cautionary, responsible side / the flip side is that he is 1000% loyal and affectionate and respectful to me. He walks on a leash respectfully. He loves so dearly. He is a beautiful creation.
About the Breed
An Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a rugged, imposing flock guardian of ancient lineage. Protective and territorial, but also intelligent, patient, and profoundly loyal, these muscular avengers are prized as working guard dogs without equal. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog stands between 27 and 29 inches at the shoulder and can weigh as much as 150 pounds. Profusely muscled but nimble afoot, Anatolians are more than a match for the predators and harsh terrain of their homeland. Anatolians descend from some of the oldest known domestic-canine bloodlines. This lends the breed a sense of timelessness, a no-frills, untouched quality that takes us back 6,000 years to the Bronze Age. Anatolians are smart, devoted, responsive, and adaptable. They will protect their flock'livestock, children, smaller dogs, even the family cat'with intensity. Anatolian owners must be strong leaders, willing and able to handle a dog as dominating and demanding as he is calm and loving.
credits: AKC Anatolian Shepherds
Considerations for Pet Parents
The breed's long lineage as livestock guardians can make living with an Anatolian Shepherd challenging for pet parents who don’t know what they are getting into. These dogs do best in experienced homes with families that are prepared for the responsibility of owning this large, independent, and protective breed.
Early socialization is key to help prevent an Anatolian Shepherd puppy from thinking everything new is a threat.
Anatolian Shepherd Personality and Temperament
Anatolian Shepherd dogs are generally quite calm and subdued, but they won’t hesitate to leap into action if they perceive a threat to their family or flock. Their instinctive nature to protect their loved ones makes them good dogs in families with older children who understand how to interact with dogs. However, Anatolian Shepherds might be best in homes without smaller children, who can easily be knocked down by an accidental bump from a 150-pound dog. When Anatolian Shepherd puppies are introduced at a young age, they typically get along well with other pets.
credits: PetMD Anatolian Shepherds