Akbash

Widely found in Anatolia, the Akbash is known as a gentle giant with a strong character. Known for his courage and impressive stature, he is often considered the national dog of Turkey. The Akbash is characterized by his alertness, his balanced nature and his elegant charisma. This combination of characteristics makes him a special and valued companion in his native region.

Content: Akbash

• profile
• Special features
• Nutrition
• Health and care
• Origin & History
• The right accessories
• Conclusion

Akbash - Profile

• Character: Alert, balanced, strong-willed
• Size: Large
• Height: 69-86cm
• Weight: 60kg
• Life expectancy: 10-11 years
• Coat type: medium hair
• Color: White, Beige, Light Brown
• Special features: Known for his courage and independence
• FCI Group: Pinscher – Schnauzer – Molosser – Swiss Mountain Dogs

Akbash - Special Features

The Akbash is known for its impressive stature and athletic power. With a shoulder height of often over 80 centimeters and an average weight of around 60 kilograms, it shows considerable size and strength. This breed is often associated with the muscular Molosser dog types, which is particularly reflected in the shape of their skull. Akbash dogs are characterized by medium-sized ears, which are usually carried flat or hanging. The Akbash's coat varies and can be short, semi-long or double. It offers excellent protection against both cold and hot weather conditions. In terms of color, white, beige and light brown tones dominate in this breed. As livestock guardian dogs, Akbash are very independent. Although they have a dominant nature, they rarely tend to be aggressive, especially towards their caregivers, with whom they show a peaceful and loyal behavior. However, Akbash can be suspicious and territorial towards strangers. These characteristics make them excellent guard dogs. However, adult Akbashs require a large area to fully exploit their character and physical potential.

Akbash - Nutrition

Akbash dogs are fairly undemanding when it comes to their diet. They can tolerate a wide variety of foods, including meat, fish and bones. Even bland food is well accepted by an Akbash. In their native Anatolia, they are often given only bread and water by the shepherds. These dogs are satisfied with small portions of food and do not need a lot of meat. However, it is important that they regularly consume animal proteins, which is why small amounts of fresh meat should be included in their diet. Akbash dogs can be prone to joint problems and obesity as they age, so it is advisable to use specially adapted feeding methods. Food rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can be particularly beneficial. These ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent the development of joint diseases.

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Akbash - Health and Care

Your Akbash is a dog that needs a lot of exercise and space to be healthy and happy. Even a large garden is not enough to meet its needs. Long walks in nature are essential, especially if it is not used as a herd protection or watchdog. Keeping an Akbash in a city apartment in a species-appropriate manner is only possible to a limited extent. Basically, the dog prefers to spend its life outdoors. It is therefore advisable to provide it with its own shelter outdoors. Raising and training an Akbash can sometimes be challenging, as these dogs are considered stubborn. It is important to start training early and to set clear rules. An Akbash usually prefers assertive and experienced owners. Caring for an Akbash is comparatively uncomplicated. It is usually sufficient to brush its coat regularly to remove dead hair.

Akbash - Origin & History

Akbash dogs have always been loyal companions and guard dogs for the shepherds in Anatolia, their home region. Historical evidence of the presence of this breed in Turkey dates back to the 15th century, as can be seen from travel reports and artistic depictions of this era. The exact origin of the Akbash is not clear, however. Some experts suspect that early Mesopotamian hunting dogs could be among its ancestors, particularly due to its similar mastiff-like stature. In the 1950s, Akbash dogs began to be exported from Turkey, especially to England and the USA. This led to various hybrid forms of the breed. The Akbash did not receive official recognition from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) until spring 1980.

Akbash - The right accessories

Although leashes do not correspond to the natural behavior of an Akbash, it is still important to keep him on a leash in residential areas and on country roads. Use a strong and sturdy leash. Shorter dog leashes are recommended for adult Akbash dogs, ideally between 50 and 120 centimeters long. Akbash dogs prefer to be outdoors all year round. Therefore, it is advisable for owners to provide a suitable shelter in the garden. When choosing a dog house, care should be taken to ensure that it is spacious and made of sturdy material. Transporting an adult Akbash in a car can be a challenge. For necessary transport, it can therefore be useful to purchase a professional dog crate. Such a crate offers additional safety both for longer journeys and for the dog.

Akbash - Conclusion

The Akbash, a gentle giant from Anatolia, impresses with its size, strength and loyalty. Despite its independence and alertness, it is adaptable in its diet and shows a peaceful nature towards familiar people. Its history goes back to the 15th century and its breeding has led to a variety of hybrids. When keeping it, special needs must be taken into account, such as stable leashes, appropriate shelter and dog transport boxes. These characteristics make the Akbash a fascinating and demanding companion.

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