All about Kangals

For many people, a dog is not just a tamed animal, but a true friend. Such a friend can be a representative of the breed Turkish Kangal. Such animals differ in some features that are not inherent in any other dogs. So, for example, they have strong protective instincts, and are also devoted to their master.

What is the history of the origin of the breed and its characteristics? What are the advantages and disadvantages of these dogs distinguish their owners? How to care for the animal and how not to make a mistake in choosing a puppy? Look for answers to these and some other questions in our article.

The breed Turkish Kangal (or Anatolian Shepherd) has a rather interesting history of origin, which is rooted in ancient times. In this regard, today there is no one clearly defined and recognized theory of its appearance.

So, for example, one of the legends reports that the dog was presented to the Ottoman padishah, who liked the animal with its strength and courage: in front of the ruler, the Turkish kangal defeated the lion. Another theory is that the dog’s birthplace is the Ottoman Empire. But all scientists agree that the animal appeared no later than the XIII century.

One way or another, but This breed of dog is considered one of the most purebred that exist today in the entire globe. The fact is that in the process of its historical development, the Anatolian Shepherd did not interbreed with any other breeds, and no breeding work was carried out with its participation.

To date, this breed of four-legged pets is quite popular in the United States of America, as well as in some European countries. However, the path to international recognition for the Anatolian Shepherd Dog was quite long and thorny. Standards for the breed were adopted and published recently by the International Cynological Association - only in 2018.

Kangal is a rather large and muscular animal. This dog has well developed muscles and skeleton, which are the basis of its strength. However, despite this, the structure of the Anatolian shepherd can be called quite proportional and even to some extent graceful.

The following standards have been adopted for the breed:

• the height of the adult at the withers reaches 80 centimeters;
• head length is in the range of 40-50% of the height of the withers;
• the cranium is 60% of the length of the head;
• body length 10% longer than height.

If we talk about the anatomical structure of the animal’s body, then normally it should also correspond to some generally accepted characteristics. The skull of the dog, although it is quite large, but could not be flat, on the contrary - its shape should be rounded, and from all sides. A characteristic and rather specific furrow should be seen on the forehead of the dog.

The structure of the front part of the animal is also quite expressive - the muzzle should be wide, but it narrows to the nose, thereby forming a kind of wedge-shaped. The eyes of the kangal are quite expressive, they are almond-shaped and have a brown color. The eyes are medium in size. The ears of the animal deserve special attention - they are not too high, wide and hang, and at the ends they are rounded.

As for the torso itself, scientists and veterinarians notice that the body of the Anatolian shepherd is very well built. The neck has a slight bend, but despite this, it is quite strong and has developed muscles. The length of the neck is average, it has a suspension.

The chest is deep, the stomach is tightened. The tail is distinguished by its large length, and its location may be different. So, for example, if the dog is in an excited state, then the tail can straighten and rise to the back, in a more relaxed mood, the tail is slightly bent. The structure of the limbs is noteworthy. Both hind legs and front legs are quite long, straight. The paws of the Anatolian Shepherd have an oval shape, and the fingers are bent.

The hairline can be different in length: there are both short-haired and long-haired individuals. The coat, like the undercoat, is quite thick. In nature, there is a fairly wide variety of colors of the Anatolian Shepherd, but fawn color is considered the most valuable and elite. Also, the animal may have some kind of “mask” on the face, which is most often painted black. Ears can also be black.

If you are thinking about buying an animal of the kangal breed and keeping it at home, then you should get acquainted with all the features of such a dog. Like any other animal, the Anatolian shepherd has both advantages and disadvantages.

As for the advantages of the breed, first of all, dog owners highlight the workability and hard work of animals, their ability to adapt to a variety of environmental conditions, endurance and stability even in the absence of nutrition, as well as pronounced watchdog qualities. However, the list of the advantages of this breed does not end there. In addition to the indicated qualities, the following characteristics can be attributed to the advantages of kangals:

• developed and balanced psyche;
• observation and attentiveness;
• loyalty and devotion to the owner;
• endurance;
• energy and activity;
• impressive appearance;
• courage and courage.

Despite a fairly wide list of advantages, Anatolian shepherds have some disadvantages. So, among the negative aspects that are characteristic of this animal, there are:

• cautious attitude to strangers (for example, to guests in the house), which can develop into aggression;
• dogs need quite spacious areas and cannot live in an apartment;
• dogs need a constant load;
• walking time should be very long.

As mentioned earlier, the kangal has pronounced watchdog abilities. In this regard, the dog is one of the best breeds. For example, a herd of cattle usually accounts for about 5-6 dogs of the Anatolian Shepherd breed, which do their job well.

If the dogs are properly raised and trained, then they will turn into uncompromising guards and watchmen who will manifest themselves as bold and attentive animals. In addition, animals can perform their functions even in adverse conditions: when they are hungry, they feel thirst and fatigue, and are also exposed to adverse weather (heat, rain, snow).

Psychologically, an animal loves attention from its owner, he likes to experience his affection and care. That is why the dog spends the maximum amount of time next to its owner. If you properly educate and train a dog, then it will show affection and goodwill not only in relation to one person who is its direct owner, but also in relation to other family members. At the same time, in relation to strangers and strangers, the dog can behave cautiously and incredulously.

Kangals are fairly calm and balanced dogs that are not prone to aggressive behavior without a specific reason. But at the same time, it is worthwhile to understand that animals are leaders by nature, and therefore they tend to dominate. They tend to be independent, and sometimes even stubborn.

Choosing a purebred thoroughbred puppy of the Anatolian Shepherd is quite a difficult task. Such animals can only be found in specialized nurseries.

When buying, first of all, it is important to pay attention to the parental couple. First you need to examine the appearance of a mature female and male, and then you should ask the seller to show you your passport, vaccination certificates and other available documents. Remember that all the qualities that are characteristic of a puppy (whether physiological or psychological characteristics) are direct reflection of the properties of the parent pair. Only after you have made sure that everything is in order with the animal’s mother and father, you can begin to examine the puppy.

As a general rule, you can excommunicate a puppy from parents and a home not earlier than 2 months. However, even if the animal whose purchase you are planning has reached the specified age, special attention should be paid to its development. Make sure that growth is active, no genetic abnormalities are manifested, the puppy is not sick with infectious or viral ailments.

When inspecting, follow the breed standards presented above. Make sure that the anatomical structure of the puppy is fully consistent with all the required indicators. Also ask the seller to show you animal instincts (guard, shepherd, guard).

Please note that the average cost of a purebred puppy of the Anatolian Shepherd is about 50,000 rubles. If you are offered to buy an animal for a much lower price, then be sure that the puppy is not purebred or has any defects.

Dogs belonging to the Anatolian Shepherd breed are quite strong and stable. However, even despite such favorable natural qualities and characteristics, dogs need proper care, as well as compliance with all conditions.

Keep in mind the fact that the animal cannot live in the cramped conditions of a city apartment. It needs a lot of space. Therefore, dogs of the Kangal breed usually live in a private house. They are not recommended to be kept on a chain, on the contrary - free walking should be provided for animals.

The fact that dogs should be constantly busy with work. Several times a week they should be additionally loaded. Such loads can provide active games or jogging with a bicycle. You can’t always keep the dog in the yard - it is worth walking it in the open spaces. Otherwise, the animal will begin to suffer emotionally and mentally, which will negatively affect the physiological state of the Anatolian shepherd (appetite worsens, joint problems begin).

An integral part of the care and maintenance of the Anatolian Shepherd is the preparation of a diet for her. It is important to make sure that the food is as healthy and balanced as possible. Food should contain a set of all the necessary vitamins and minerals that will support all the animal's vital processes.

Each owner decides independently what to feed the animal - dry prepared mixtures or natural food. Despite the fact that both options are acceptable, and the second is more convenient and economical in terms of labor and time, you should still prefer natural food.

So, the diet of the animal should include cereals, meat and offal, vegetables. With a small frequency, the animal can be fed dairy products.

If you decide to go the easier way and prefer to feed the dog with ready-made mixes, then you should select those feeds that are designed for giant breeds. To avoid food allergies and other negative reactions Choose only premium quality food or holostics.

In addition, you should consult with your veterinarian about the inclusion of vitamin supplements or mineral complexes in your pet's diet.

The nutritional schedule should be constant. Usually, until the animal reaches the age of 8 months, it is fed 2 times a day. After reaching this milestone, the dog is transferred to a single meal.Serving size is not strictly set - the dog does not eat more food than it needs. She is able to independently adjust the portion depending on its physiological characteristics, physical activity and environmental conditions.

A feature of the diet of Kangals is the fact that periodically dogs can refuse to eat. If this lasts no more than 2-3 days, then there is no cause for concern. In this way Anatolian shepherd dogs arrange a kind of fasting days.

Compliance with all hygiene standards is an important part of caring for dogs that belong to the kangal breed. First of all, attention should be paid to hair care. If you follow all the instructions of specialists, then outwardly the dog will look pretty neat, in addition, the skin condition of the animal will improve.

It should be noted that Anatolian shepherd is an animal that is prone to intense molting. This process is especially pronounced in the warm season. At this time, the dog should be quite often (1 time in 2-3 days) and combed thoroughly. This should be done using special combs and brushes. With proper care the dog will always look neat and well maintained.

In addition to combing, you must perform other procedures. In particular, it is recommended to regularly check the condition of the eyes, ears and oral cavity of the animal. If contaminants are present, they must be removed with cotton buds, cotton pads, or a toothbrush. When cleaning the animal, use only those products that are specifically designed for dogs and in no case use solutions that you use yourself.

The most difficult procedure regarding dog care is swimming. Fortunately, it does not need to be washed too often. It is believed that the animal needs water procedures no more than 1 time in 3 months.

Training and education in the full sense of the word are not suitable for the kangal. It's all about the nature of the animal - it is quite independent and independent. That is why it should be borne in mind that it can not be subjected to constant and lengthy training. Try to turn classes into interesting and exciting games, teach the shepherd dog in unobtrusive ways.

See more about breed features in the next video.