FREE shipping on orders over $100
Sign up to our newsletter
180-day guarantee
Turkish Kangal Dog
Breed Rating (4 Reviews)
| Appearance | |
| Friendliness | |
| Hardiness | |
| Garden |
History
This is a large breed, originating in the Kangal region of Turkey, hence the name. They were traditionally used as protectors of sheep and other livestock. They were brave and could fend off wolves and other predators. Unlike most guard dogs, they weren’t usually left alone with the sheep but would rather work alongside the shepherd to deter and warn against attacks. The breeding of the TKD is very strictly controlled in Turkey, and as a result the pedigree is still practically 100% pure.
Behaviour
The Kangal will become very devoted to their family, but they can also be very territorial. They get along just fine with children and regular visitors, but they will be wary of strangers. They were bred to guard and this comes naturally to them,it is important to take them to lots of new places and to meet lots of different people and dogs whilst they are still puppies,as this will help produce a much more well rounded and easy going dog later on down the line. They will want to protect you and will stand and stare at any potential threat they see. Whilst their preferred method of defense is simply just scaring anything away with their sheer size, they will attack if they feel that it is the only option. They are rarely aggressive towards people, even less so if they are properly socialized and realise their rank in the family “pack”.
As is the case with any larger breed, training should start as early as possible. It is crucial that you are in control at all times, this breed will spot absolutely every sign of weakness and they need to be taught that you are above them in the pack. A firm hand is needed. Kangals think tricks are pointless and won’t even bother trying to learn them. If you want to teach them something, you have to make them think that they want to do it. It is a good idea to take them to both puppy and adult classes to gain more control over them. They are a loving beast that wants to be around you and to please you but sometimes they simply don’t understand what you want from them. Teaching them to heel is important. Positive reinforcement and food rewards work well.
This breed needs a fair amount of exercise, but less than you expect from a breed this size. A long walk each day along with a chance to run about should be enough for them. They make for good jogging patterns, just make sure that they run alongside you and not in front of you, as this makes them think that they are in charge. They, of course, make for a good guard dog and their sheer size is usually enough to deter any potential-criminals. They need a large living space and garden. They will try to escape from your garden, so be sure to fully secure it. They will usually dig a large hole in the garden to make a cool area to sleep in. If given enough exercise, they will be calm at home, though they always have one ear open and are always fully aware of what’s going on around them.
This breed takes its time to mature, not reaching full adulthood until about 3 years old. They love to chew and should be provided with either bones or chew toys to prevent them from gnawing at your chair legs. They shed heavily twice a year, though a decent brush should be enough to get rid of the majority of it. When not shedding, they require little grooming.
Temperament
Turkish Kangal Dogs have a protective and rugged temperament. Bred to protect flocks of sheep from wolves the Kangal makes a formidable guard dog. The Kangal will form a tight bond with his family (including other pets) but will always be suspicious of strangers on its territory. It is particularly important with this breed that you assert yourself in training the dog so that it knows you are in charge.
Health Problems
Health problems that may affect Turkish Kangal Dogs include canine hip dysplasia (CHD) and elbow dysplasia.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
- Weight: 90 - 140 lbs
- Height: 28 - 33"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Short
- Grooming Requirements: Once a week
- Town or Country: Country
- Minimum Home Size: Large House
- Minimum Garden Size: Large Garden
- Breed Type: Herding
- Size: Large
- Energy Level: Medium
- Exercise Required: Over 2 hours
More to love
Turkish Kangal Dog Pictures
Latest Reviews For Turkish Kangal Dog (4 of 4)
- Elisa,
- Kenan,
It is one of the best shepherd dog around the world, extremely stronger and loyal dog.
I have two Kangal's, they are a joy to own ,and I am blessed to have them in my life - Zoltan,
These are the most amazing animals in the world ! An absolute joy to be a part of their lives. Smart ,fearless, loyal, gentle, so caring, and full of love. I assure you will not find in any other breed !
Amazing - Jackson, Nevada,
I never owned a Kangal, but my uncle did, and he was the friendliest dog in the world. He also would help my uncle garden. He didn't even need a spade because he could just say "Bumblebee, dig." and it would dig a nearly perfect 1/2 foot deep cone plot to lay seeds in. Amazing pup.