Country of OriginTurkey
Nicknames and Other NamesAkbaş Çoban Köpeği
Scientific NameCanis lupus familiaris
Breed TypePurebred
GroupGuardian Dog
Bred ForGuarding Livestock
SizeLarge-Sized
Recognized ByUKC
Life Span10-12 Years
Ideal WeightMale: 115 Pounds
Female: 90 Pounds
Ideal HeightMale: 30 Inches
Female: 28.5 Inches
Fur TypeThick, Medium, Smooth
Common ColorsWhite
MarkingsNone
AvailabilityModerately Available
AchievementsNational Dog Of Turkey
Suitable for ApartmentsNo
Used in World WarNo
Most Similar ToKuvasz

Akbash Dog is a large-sized, powerful dog breed that was used as a working dog and guarding dog of the livestock. It is a long-legged, muscular, strong dog breed that is covered with a beautiful dense, medium-length coat. It is a very energetic dog with high stamina and great courage.

Akbash Dog has a gentle, loving personality with a hard-working and protective nature. They make an excellent family companion for an active family in a house with an open place where they can perform their regular activities. Apartment life is not at all suitable for them.

Origin and History

The Akbash was originated in Turkey around 300 years ago by the shepherd. They are also popularly known as Coban Kopegi and the Akbas. It is believed that Mastiffs and Sighthound with other shepherds were used in the development of this breed.

Judith and David Nelson, who has been researching white dogs in Turkey dog introduced the Akbash to North America in 1970. It was recognized by the United Kennel Club as a member of the Guardian Group.

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the Akbash is bold, active, and independent. They are very calm with the family and gentle with them but aware and alert of the surrounding. They are the excellent watchdog that will look after your family and your property.

Behavior: Akbash is a very active and energetic dog that thrives on activities and the company of its people. People often confuse them with herder but they never chase livestock but will guard and chase the predators and even engage in combat if necessary.

Personality: The personality of the Akbash is intelligent, quiet, loving, and very independent. They are loving and affectionate with their family but are independent and have the mind of their own. They need their personal space sometimes but also want to play and cuddle with their people.

Akbash guarding livestock
Akbash licking a goat.
Image Source: PetGuide

Trainability

Akbash is a very intelligent dog breed that is quick at catching on new instructions and commands. They are independent dogs, so a firm and consistent leadership at an early age are required. Use positive methods of training and start training them from an early age when they are more eager to please their owners.

Training Akbash.

Reward them with delicious treats and lots of vocal praises. This will motivate them and keep them focused on the training session.

Is Akbash Child-Friendly Dog?

Yes, Akbash is a friendly dog with children. They are loving, gentle, and protective of kids. They are also playful, which makes them great playmates for kids. However, they are large with the big body which can knock over small kids and hurt them. So, supervision is necessary whenever
they are interacting with each other.

Akbash is child friendly dog
A boy kissing his Akbash.
Image Source: Instagram-@pineapplehillalpacafarm

Facts

  • Akbash Dog is one of the national dog breeds of Turkey.
  • The name Akbash means ‘White Head’ which is the Turkish word.

Health Issues

General HealthHealthy
Common Health IssuesBloat, Heart problem, Hip Dysplasia,
Luxating Patella, Umbilical Hernias, Hypothyroidism
HypoallergenicNo
Vaccination RequiredRabies, Canine Coronavirus, Kennel Cough,
Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Leptospirosis
SheddingModerate Shedder
DroolingAverage Drooler
GroomingAverage Grooming Required
Weight Gain PotentialAverage
Separation AnxietyLow Chance
AllergiesNone
Diets and SupplementsProtein: 28-30%
Fat: 10-15%
Multivitamins
Glucosamine
Omega-3 and 6 Fatty Acids

Akbash can face some of the following canine health problems:

Hip Dysplasia: The condition where the hip joint of your dog is either underdeveloped or dislocated from its original place is called hip dysplasia. It can cause sharp pain on the back making it painful for them to move from one place to another.
Bloat: Bloat is when the abdomen of your dog gets big and looks like a balloon. It is also called gastric torsion that causes pain on the stomach. Take your dog to a vet for a proper check-up.

Colors

The Akbash comes in the following colors:

  • White
  • Off-White

Puppies

Akbash Puppies
Akbash Puppies Running.
Image Source: steemit.com

Cost: The cost of the Akbash puppy is between $700-$900 USD on average.

Size

Height: The average height of the Akbash is between 29-33 inches.

Weight: The average weight of the Akbash is between 80-140 pounds.

Similar Dog Breeds to Akbash

Visit Doglime for more dog breeds information and their behavior.

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