Turkish Kangal

If you’re looking for a large dog known for its strong background in guarding animals, the Turkish Kangal could be the right choice. These dogs have short, sturdy fur that is thick and dense, featuring an undercoat that keeps them safe from tough weather. When trained well, they can be very gentle and kind.

Quick Info

Size
Large
Colours
Cream, fawn, dun, or steel grey, with a characteristic dark or black mask and ears and a tail with a black or white tip
Lifespan
10 to 13 years
Height
28 to 32 inches
Type
Mastiff
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
88 to 132 pounds
Family

Personality

Imagine the Turkish Kangal dog breed as a wise big brother: strong, watchful, and steady… until they aren’t. These dogs are clever and like to think for themselves, able to make choices without needing a human’s guidance. However, it’s important to train them on how to behave around kids, other animals, farm animals, or anyone they might see as a danger.

History

The Kangal dog, hailing from Turkey, is a breed known for guarding livestock and warning flocks of threats. It gets its name from Kangal, a town located in the Sivas Province of Turkey. It is believed that nomadic Turks brought these dogs from Central Asia. In the past, the Kangal and a closely related breed, the Akbash, were grouped together as the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, but they are now recognized as separate breeds.

Ideal Owner

Training a Turkish Kangal requires a commitment of time and effort. Although they are usually calm, these dogs can be quite demanding and need a good amount of time, money, and energy. With the right socialization, they can make great family pets. Similar to a Virgo, they enjoy a close-knit group of friends rather than a lot of casual guests.

Exercise Needs

Don't underestimate them because of their size: the Kangal is a strong and agile breed that can sprint at speeds exceeding 30 miles per hour for short distances when they're in good shape. Aim to give them at least two hours of exercise each day, which should include time to run freely. While they may not be fond of traditional training, they do enjoy activities that challenge their minds, such as games and puzzles.

Space Requirements

A Turkish Kangal needs a lot of room, both inside and outside the house. Since they can be a bit awkward and often weigh more than 100 pounds, having enough space is important for their comfort. Ideally, they should have a large, fenced yard or farm where they can run around freely.

Training

Similar to certain teenagers, Turkish Kangals may take their time to grow up, but they possess a natural intelligence. These dogs are calm and independent, forming strong connections with their owners when treated with kindness, consistency, and patience. It’s important to practice “gentle parenting” instead of using harsh methods or trying to dominate them. They respond well to positive reinforcement. To ensure your Kangal thrives as a pet, it’s essential for them to see you as the most enjoyable, safe, and engaging person to be around. Early socialization is key to helping them become well-mannered companions.

Grooming

The Kangal dog from Turkey requires minimal grooming. A simple brushing is enough to keep their fur in good shape. However, giving a dog of this size a complete bath can be quite a job. You may consider taking them to a professional groomer, but that can be expensive.

Suitability for Family Life

Turkish Kangals may not be the first choice for family-friendly dogs, but with proper training and socialization from an early age, they can fit well into a family. These dogs tend to be somewhat distant in nature and can be a bit awkward physically. They often feel cautious around strangers and usually stick to their familiar group. It can take them a few years to fully grow up. Because of their size and the need for extensive training, they are not ideal for families with young kids.

Did You know?

Kangal dogs, originally bred to protect sheep in Anatolia, are now making a name for themselves in Namibia. Thanks to a donation from the Cheetah Conservation Fund, these courageous dogs have reduced the number of livestock lost to cheetahs by 80% over the past three decades.

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Need to Know

Dogs suitable for experienced owners
Extra training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys active walks
Minimal drool
Requires frequent brushing
Generally quiet dog
Barks, alerts, and may be physically protective/suspicious of visitors