The Akbash Dog is a large and powerful breed known for its strength, agility and distinctive appearance. Here are some key characteristics that can help identify an Akbash dog.

Size : Akbash dogs are large dogs, typically standing between 28 to 34 inches (71 to 86 cm) tall at the shoulder. They have a strong build with well-developed muscles.

Coat : The Akbash dog has a short to medium length double hair coat which is usually white in color. The coat is thick and weather-resistant, with a dense undercoat to provide it with insulation.

Head : They have a broad and slightly rounded head with a strong muzzle. The skull is slightly domed, and the snout is usually black or dark. Their ears are V-shaped and droop downwards, although they can sometimes be semi-erect.

Eyes : The eyes of Akbash dogs are medium and almond shaped and are usually brown in color. His eyes convey a calm and attentive expression.

Tail : The tail of the Akbash dog is long and sweeps downwards, usually reaching the hips. It may have a slight curve or it may be carried straight.

Conformation : They have a lean and muscular body, with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs. Its legs are strong, straight, round and compact.

Temperament : Akbash dogs are known for their calm nature. They are intelligent, independent and have a strong protective instinct, making them excellent guardians of livestock and property.

Gait : Akbash dogs have a smooth gait when walking. They are agile and capable of covering long distances with ease.

Function : Traditionally, Akbash dogs were bred as livestock guardian dogs, used primarily to protect sheep and goats from predators such as wolves and bears. Thus, they have a natural instinct to protect and defend their territory.

Overall Impression : The overall impression of the Akbash dog should be one of strength, athleticism and confidence. They should appear alert and aware of their surroundings, with a calm and attentive demeanor.

It is important to note that these are general characteristics of the breed, individual dogs may vary in appearance and temperament.

bite force: 200-400 PSI

average speed : The Akbash Dog is generally not known for its speed like some other breeds, yet it has moderate agility and athleticism. On average, an Akbash dog can reach speeds of about 25 to 30 miles per hour (40 to 48 kilometers per hour). This speed can vary depending on factors such as the age, health, and motivation of the individual dog.

average life : The average lifespan of the Akbash dog is 10-12 years.

Birth place of the Akbash Dog

The Akbash dog originated in Turkey, specifically in the region of Western Anatolia. The name “Akbash” translates to “white head” in Turkish, describing the breed’s distinctive white coat and often white head.

Domesticated for centuries by shepherds and farmers in Turkey, the Akbash dog was used primarily as a livestock guardian, protecting sheep and goats from predators such as wolves and bears. Their white hair coats help them blend in with the herd, while their size, strength and protective instincts make them effective protectors.

The exact origins of the Akbash dog are not well documented, but it is believed to descend from ancient mastiff-type dogs brought to Anatolia by nomadic tribes thousands of years ago. Over time, selective breeding resulted in the development of the Akbash dog as a distinctive breed known for its working abilities and temperament.

Other name of the Akbash Dog

The Akbash dog is known internationally primarily by its name “Akbash”. In Turkey, where the breed originated, it may also be called “Akbash Koban Köpegi”, which translates to “Akbash Shepherd Dog” in English. The name reflects the breed’s traditional role as a livestock guardian or herding dog in Turkish culture.

Additionally, in some regions or communities where the Akbash dog is used for specific purposes or has gained recognition under a different context, it may be known by local or colloquial names. “Akbash” is the most widely recognized and accepted name for the breed in Turkey and internationally.

Exercise of the Akbash Dog

The Akbash Dog is a large and active breed that requires regular exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Here are some exercise guidelines for the Akbash dog:

Daily walks : Aim for at least one long walk per day, lasting about 30 to 60 minutes. This provides your Akbash dog with an opportunity to stretch his legs, explore his surroundings, and burn off excess energy.

Outdoor Activities : Engage your Akbash dog in outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging or running in a safely fenced area. These activities allow them to exert themselves and fulfill their natural instincts to wander and explore.

Play Time : Provide plenty of interactive play time to keep your Akbash dog mentally stimulated and physically active. Games like fetch-of-war and hide-and-seek can be enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Training Sessions : Incorporate training sessions into your Akbash dog’s daily routine to stimulate his mind and reinforce obedience commands. Positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and play are effective motivators for this intelligent breed.

Socialization : Expose your Akbash dog to different environments, people, and animals from an early age to promote positive socialization skills. Regular trips to the dog park or supervised play dates with other friendly dogs can help them learn appropriate behavior and develop confidence.

Function and Purpose : Provide your Akbash dog with a purpose to fulfill their natural instincts and keep them from getting bored. Activities like agility, obedience, herding, or even medical work can give them a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Supervision : Always supervise your Akbash dog during outdoor activities, especially in unfenced areas or near livestock. Their strong hunting instincts and protective instincts can lead them to chase smaller animals.

Consistency : Establish a consistent exercise routine for your Akbash dog to ensure they receive adequate physical activity and mental stimulation on a daily basis. Consistency helps maintain their overall health and well-being.

Remember to tailor your Akbash dog’s exercise routine to his age, health and personal preferences. Although they are an active breed, they also enjoy relaxing indoors with their family. Balancing physical activity with rest and relaxation is the key to keeping your Akbash dog happy and healthy.

Grooming of the Akbash Dog

The Akbash dog has a double coat of short to medium length hair that is weather resistant and requires moderate care to keep it healthy and looking its best. Here are some tips for grooming the Akbash dog:

Brushing : Brush your Akbash dog’s coat regularly, at least once or twice a week, to remove loose hair, dirt and debris. It helps prevent matting and reduces shedding. A smooth brush or grooming mitt can be effective in removing loose hair and keeping the coat clean.

Bathing : Bathe your Akbash dog as needed, usually every 2 to 3 months or when they become noticeably dirty or smelly. Use a gentle dog shampoo specifically formulated for their coat type to keep their natural oils from being destroyed. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water to remove all traces of shampoo, as any residue can irritate the skin.

Coat Care : Pay attention to the hair coat, which may become matted, especially around the ears, neck, and tail. Use a wide-tooth comb or dematting tool to gently comb out any knots, starting at the ends and working your way down to the base of the hair. Trim long or overgrown hair as needed, especially hair around the legs and ears.

Ear Cleaning : Check your Akbash dog’s ears regularly for wax build-up, debris, or signs of infection. Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution and a soft cloth or cotton ball to gently wipe the outer ear and remove any dirt or excess wax. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, as this may cause injury.

Nail Trimming : Keep your Akbash dog’s nails trimmed to a comfortable length to prevent them from growing and causing discomfort or difficulty walking. For this, cut the nails every 4 to 6 weeks or as needed, taking care to avoid cutting sharply (the blood vessel inside the nail).

Dental Care : Dental hygiene is important to the overall health of your Akbash dog. Brush their teeth regularly with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup, tartar formation and gum disease. Dental chews and toys can also help keep their teeth clean and healthy.

Skin Care : Monitor your Akbash dog’s skin for any signs of irritation, dryness or skin problems. Provide them with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and adequate hydration to maintain healthy skin and hair coat.

Regular Veterinarian Checkups : Schedule regular veterinary checkups to ensure the overall health and well-being of your Akbash dog. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on care, nutrition, parasite control, and other aspects of your dog’s care.

By following these grooming tips and providing regular care, you can help your Akbash dog stay healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.

Common Health Problems of the Akbash Dog

The Akbash Dog is generally a healthy and strong breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to some health problems. Common health problems that can occur in Akbash dogs include:

Hip Dysplasia : This is a common orthopedic condition in many large dog breeds, including the Akbash dog. This involves the abnormal formation of the hip joint, which can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis over time.

Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a developmental condition that affects the elbow joint. This can cause lameness, stiffness and discomfort, especially in young Akbash dogs.

Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) : This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas or fluid and then expands on its own. Bloat requires immediate veterinary care and may be more common in deep-chested breeds such as the Akbash dog.

Entropion : Entropion is a genetic condition where the eyelid turns inward, causing irritation and discomfort in the eye. If left untreated, it can lead to corneal ulcers and other eye problems.

Ectropion : Ectropion is the opposite of entropion, where the eyelid turns outward, exposing the inner surface of the eyelid and eyeball. While it is usually not as serious as entropion, ectropion can still cause eye irritation and infection.

Obesity : Like many large breeds, Akbash dogs can be prone to obesity if they are not given adequate exercise and a balanced diet. Obesity can contribute to a variety of health problems, including joint problems and heart disease.

Allergies : Some Akbash dogs may have environmental allergies such as pollen, dust, or certain foods. Allergic reactions may manifest as skin irritation, itching, and frequent ear infections.

Hypothyroidism : Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, causing symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. It can be controlled with medication, but requires lifelong treatment.

Heart Conditions : Some heart conditions, such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), can occur in Akbash dogs. If these conditions are not properly diagnosed and managed, they can lead to heart failure.

Cancer : While cancer can affect dogs of any breed, some studies suggest that certain large and giant breeds, including the Akbash dog, may have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Regular veterinary checkups, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and preventive care can help reduce the risk of these health problems in Akbash dogs. Additionally, responsible breeding practices aimed at reducing the prevalence of genetic disorders can help improve the overall health of the breed.

Popular Akbash Mixed Breeds

Akbash dogs are sometimes mixed with other breeds to create mixed breed dogs, which inherit various traits from both parent breeds. Here are some popular Akbash mixed breeds:

Akbash-Great Pyrenees Mix (Pyrenean Akbash) : This mix combines the Akbash dog with the Great Pyrenees, another large livestock guardian breed. The resulting hybrid is often large, strong and protective, with a calm and gentle demeanor.

Akbash-Anatolian Shepherd Mix (Akbash) : Crossing the Akbash dog with the Anatolian Shepherd dog results in a mix known as the Akbash. These dogs are generally strong, loyal, and protective, with strong instincts to guard livestock and property.

Akbash-Maremma Sheepdog Mix (Akbash Maremma) : Mixing the Akbash dog with the Maremma sheepdog results in a hybrid with excellent guarding instincts and a strong protective drive. These dogs are often suitable for guarding livestock and property in rural settings.

Akbash-Great Dane Mix (Akbash Dane) : This mix combines the Akbash dog with the Great Dane, resulting in a large and powerful hybrid. These dogs may inherit traits such as size, strength, and loyalty from both parent breeds.

Akbash-Anatolian Greyhound Mix (Akbash Greyhound) : Crossing the Akbash dog with the Anatolian Greyhound results in a mix that can achieve the speed and agility of the Greyhound as well as the protective instincts of the Akbash dog. These hybrids can excel in a variety of working roles including hunting and guarding.

Akbash-German Shepherd Mix (Akbash Shepherd) : Mixing the Akbash dog with the German Shepherd results in a hybrid that can inherit qualities such as intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. These dogs can excel in a variety of roles including herding, protection, and companionship.

Akbash-Labrador Retriever Mix (Labrabrash) : Crossing an Akbash dog with a Labrador retriever results in a mix that can inherit qualities such as loyalty, friendliness, and intelligence. These hybrids can make excellent family pets and companions.

Akbash-Golden Retriever Mix (Golden Akbash) : This mix combines the Akbash dog with the Golden Retriever, resulting in a hybrid that can inherit qualities such as loyalty, intelligence, and gentle temperament. These dogs can excel as family pets and therapy dogs.

It’s important to note that mixed breed dogs can inherit a variety of traits from their parent breeds, so the characteristics of Akbash mixed breeds can vary widely.