Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Akbash Dog is one of the oldest of the flock-guarding group. The breed is the counterpart of the French Great Pyrenees, the Hungarian Kuvasz, the Italian Maremma and other white sheep guarding breeds. The Akbash Dog still carries the same mental and physical traits that characterized it thousands of year ago. Akbash Dogs are large, lean, muscular and powerful with an elegant, racy appearance. Akbash Dogs characteristics are a combination of the Mastiff and Gazehound. They are powerful dogs with medium to long white fur, bred specifically to distinguish them from wolves. They have been bred as a guardian dog whose primary function is to protect sheep from predators. Akbash dogs are calm, quiet and brave. They deserve require respect in training and raising them. They will protect you and be affectionate to their family as well. But to strangers, this dog is a good guardian and watchdog. If not socialized properly when puppies, they will be aggressive towards all intruders. The Akbash requires a firm and dog-experienced owner seeking a loyal guardian and friend.

TEMPERAMENT

Akbash Dogs are calm, quiet, independent, protective, brave, and affectionate. They will be aggressive toward strangers and strange animals if they aren't properly socialized and trained. Akbash Dogs are steady and peaceful, but watchful at the same time. With owners they are friendly. They are extremely loyal dogs. They are also very intelligent, independent, and make an excellent pet and guardian. They are naturally very protective and are bred to think for themselves. Therefore, they may disobey if they think their choice is better.

GROOMING

The Akbash Dog has a non-odorous, non-matting coat so minimal grooming is required. They do shed more than the average dog and could use regular brushing.

HEALTH

Hip dysplasia, OCD, cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, entropion, hypothyroidism, seizures, and umbilical hernias.

EXERCISE

They need regular exercise such as a run off-lead even though their actively level is low.

TRAINING

should be noted that even though training is relatively easy, bad habits should be corrected when young. Socialization should begin early with the owner establishing themselves as an alpha or dominant being in the relationship. Owners of the Akbash Dog must teach them to respond appropriately in various situations.