Akbash Dog

The Akbash Dog’s name literally means ‘white head’ in Turkish. It originated in western Turkey in the region called Akbas. It is primarily used as a guard dog to protect livestock from predators. These dogs are large and weight from 90-130 pounds (40-60 kg). Males weight about 120 pounds and females, about 90 pounds on an average. These dogs are leaner than other Turkish guard dogs and can be easily distinguished by their white coats. They have long legs, heavily feathered tails and their skin is pink blotched with black. These dogs possess characteristics common to both mastiffs and sight hounds. They are often categorized as sheep dogs but they do not herd livestock. Instead, they act more like guardians of the flock.

These dogs are not shy and can even be aggressive towards humans when used as guard dogs. However, they are not hostile by nature. These dogs can also be used as companions. With proper training, they can even learn to co-exist peacefully with other animals and pets. These dogs are independent by nature and often refuse to follow commands during training. Because these dogs are genetically conditioned to lie with the flocks they guard, these dogs are not very energetic. However, they should not be confined to cramped spaces or they might become irritable and snappy. Plenty of work and play keeps these dogs happy and well mannered. These dogs are well known for their bravery, intelligence, loyalty and independence. These dogs should ideally not be left alone with children they do not know or have not been accustomed to.

Like most other breeds, these dogs are vulnerable to hip dysplasia and they are also known to be afflicted with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). However, these conditions are found much less in these dogs than in other breeds of their size. Their average life span Is about 10 to 11 years but some dogs have been known to live much longer. Despite their independent nature, these dogs are capable of bonding very strongly with their owners and with the animals they guard. They show a strong sense of emotion and sensitivity not commonly found in dogs.

The Akbash Dog is often considered the Turkish variety of white guardian dogs commonly found in and around the north Mediterranean basin. These dogs present a unique combination of molosser and sight hound characteristics. It is thought that this breed came into being at least 3000 years ago. Their white coats help to distinguish them easily from their predators.

There is archeological evidence to suggest that the earliest human civilizations began in parts of the world presently known as Syria, Turkey and Iran about 10,000 years ago. These humans began to domesticate animals and they also started farming. Thus they would have needed guard dogs to protect their livestock. Other white livestock guard dogs found in these regions includes the Great Pyrenees of the Pyrenees Mountain area in Spain and France and Maremma dogs from the Maremma Mountains in Italy.