Akbash

The Akbash is built like a sheepdog and should be massive, powerful, and quick. Wolfdog's calm, peaceful demeanor and ability to adapt to new situations make him an excellent companion when he isn't fighting off wolves in the wild. Rather than working as a subordinate, he is used to working with others as a partner.

Dogs known as Coban Kopegi, Akbaş oban Köpei, and Askbash Dogs are all variations of this breed. These purebred dogs can be found at local shelters and rescues, despite their status as an uncommon breed. Keep in mind that adopting rather than shopping is always a wiser course of action.

Even though he has a strong protective instinct, the Akbash isn't the best dog for a first-time dog owner because of this. He is in need of someone who can guide him with kindness, firmness, and consistency, but never with force or harshness.

The Akbash, like most breeds of this sort, takes its time maturing. Don't rush his development. When he is two to three years old, he will be able to fully develop his physical and mental capacities. Not only is it cruel to leave an Akbash chained up in the yard with little or no attention, but it can also cause him to become aggressive and destructive. In order for Akbash to be happy, he should spend as much time as possible with his family within the house.

Highlights

• The only colour available for Akbash coats is white. With their white coats, these dogs were intended to blend in with the flock and protect animals.
• Because Akbashes are autonomous, they usually don't have any separation anxiety with their human counterparts. Make sure to give them a break every now and then, as they enjoy some alone time.
• It's best to brush them once or twice every week to remove dirt and old hair, which they shed moderately throughout the year and a lot more in the spring and summer. The coat can be quite simple to maintain if you pay attention to their needs.
• Because of their lack of energy, Akbashes are prone to weight gain. Every day, take your dog for at least a 30-minute to an hour-long walk and include some active play time and shorter walks.
• Akbashes will growl or snarl at strangers if they perceive something awry, but they are not hostile towards them. Is there any greater security dog than the Akbash? If so, you can't go wrong with this dog.
• If you're looking for a pet that isn't afraid of other animals, an Akbash is a good choice.
• With their huge size, Akbash dogs are able to handle children's boisterous antics. Their low energy level means they may perform better with adults or older children who can play gently with them.

Characteristics

Social Appearance 

Adaptability

A little dog isn't inherently better for an apartment than a larger one, contrary to popular opinion. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to be happy in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. If you want to give your dog a bit more privacy in your apartment, you can get a great crate for them right here.

Sensitivity Level

Some dogs take a strong rebuke in stride, while others take even the tiniest hint of a sneer into account. "Easygoing," "resilient" and "thick-skinned" dogs can better endure a noisy, chaotic environment, an aggressive or boisterous owner, and an unpredictable or erratic schedule. Playing in a garage band, having small children, or living a hectic lifestyle are all signs that you might fit into this category. Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.

Intensity

An energetic dog can be vigorous, but it doesn't mean that everything they do is energetic. A vigorous dog strains on the leash (unless you train them not to), tries to plough past barriers, and even consumes food and water in large gulps when they're hungry or thirsty. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. Low-vigor dogs, on the other hand, are more laid back.

Potential for Playfulness

There are certain dogs that are always looking for a game, while there are others that are more stoic and reserved. Be realistic about how much time you want to spend playing fetch or tag with your dog each day, and whether your family has children or other canines that can fill in as his playmates.

Personality Appearance

Intelligence

Sheepdogs, which were intended to herd animals and require a high level of intelligence and attention, need mental exercise just as much as dogs raised to gallop all day do. A lack of mental stimulation can cause them to create their own labour, such as digging and chewing, if they don't get it. A dog's brain can be exercised through obedience training and interactive dog toys, as well as through dog sports and occupations like agility and search and rescue.

Energy Level

Dogs with lots of energy are always looking for something to do. They may work hard all day since they were developed to fulfil a specific job, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding animals. They'll spend more time jumping, playing, and discovering new sights and smells if they're getting enough physical and mental stimulation.

An energy-sucking dog wants to sleep all day. Take into account your own level of exercise and lifestyle, and if a boisterous, exuberant dog will energise or irritate you.

Easy To Train

Easy-to-train dogs can quickly connect a prompt (like "sit"), an action (sitting), and a reward (receiving a treat). Other dogs require more time, patience, and repetition.

You'll need to utilise rewards and games to teach many breeds who are bright but don't want to comply with your commands.

Family Affection Level

Affectionate With Family

Even if they've been nurtured by the same person since puppyhood, some breeds are stubborn and aloof; others form strong bonds with a single person and are uninterested in anybody else; and still others exhibit unconditional love to everyone in the household. It's not just the breed that influences a dog's level of attachment; canines who were raised in a home with people around are more likely to form strong bonds with humans.

Kid-Friendly

Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude toward rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are believed to be good with children (which are considered Pit Bulls). When it comes to family-friendly small dogs, Chihuahuas aren't always the best option.

Dog Friendly

There's a big difference between being friendly to dogs and people. Even if their owners call them "lovebugs," dogs can attack or dominate each other. It's not just genetics. Puppy socialisation is more likely among puppies raised with their littermates and mother during the first six to eight weeks of life.

Physical Appearance

Amount of Shedding

There is a huge difference between being friendly to dogs and being friendly to people. No matter how affectionate a dog's owners think they are, it isn't uncommon for them to engage in a bit of dog-fighting. A person's predisposition is not solely determined by hereditary factors. Puppy socialisation is more likely in dogs that were raised with their littermates and mother for the first six to eight weeks of their lives and who were frequently exposed to other puppies.

Drooling Potential

While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. In the event that drool isn't a concern for you, then go ahead and get a dog that doesn't drool excessively.

Easy To Groom

Some breeds of dogs may simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, cutting, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance.. It's important to think about whether you have the time and resources to properly groom a dog or if you can afford to hire someone else to do it.

Exercise Needs

Even a leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood can be enough exercise for certain breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, strenuous exercise.

When these breeds don't get enough exercise, they may put on weight or engage in other undesirable behaviours, like barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that require a lot of exercise are ideal for folks who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors or who want to train their dog for a high-intensity canine sport like agility.

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed

Weight

75 to 140 pounds

Lifespan

10 to 12 years

Height

27 to 34 inches

Breed Group

Working Dogs

History

The Akbash Dog is a historic breed that was developed to guard cattle from predators like wolves. The Akbash Dog is one of several white guardian dog breeds endemic to the northern Mediterranean Basin. Americans David and Judy Nelson began bringing around 40 Akbash Dogs to the US for study in the 1970s. 

These imported dogs served as the foundation stock for the breed in both the US and Canada. The US Department of Agriculture included the Akbash Dog in their predator control programme in 1980, and the United Kennel Club recognised them as a member of their Guardian Dog Group in 1998.

Personality and Temperament

The Akbash is a sweet dog who guards their family. They're self-sufficient and enjoy their own space. Originally bred to watch cattle flocks, they still have strong guard instincts.

These pups are exceptionally intelligent and, despite their lack of explosive energy, are agile and strong when in danger. Strangers will growl or bark at them if they feel threatened, but they are not violent. The Akbash is the perfect watchdog and guardian for your home.

This dog requires a firm and constant owner who is also sensitive to their needs. They are easily trained, but be sure to socialise them early with other dogs or pets.

The fact that they are self-sufficient means that they are less likely to suffer from separation anxiety than their human counterparts are. Make sure to give them a break every now and then, as they enjoy some alone time.

In disposition, Akbash are neither bashful nor aggressive. It has a flexible personality. Gentle, peaceful, patient, adaptive, stoic, protective, affectionate, vigilant, maternal, loyal, independent, and brave are some of its characteristics.

The Akbash has a reduced risk of biting because its temperament isn't naturally aggressive. Even though it is naturally cautious of new people, its mental alertness and tenderness make it an effective deterrent for predators.

Care

You should always take good care of your Akbash dog to keep them healthy, active, and happy. Regular vet check-ups can help discover health issues early. Your vet can help you create a healthy care routine for your dog.

Due to their low energy levels, Akbash dogs are prone to weight gain. Incorporate daily half-hour to hour-long walks with active play sessions and shorter walks.

Another worry is your Akbash dog's oral health. So, wash their teeth as directed by your vet (because many dogs are prone to dental issues). Instructive dental care for dogs is available from vets.

Health

Due to their remote ancestry, Akbash dogs are more likely than Mastiffs to suffer from certain health issues. While most cats and dogs are healthy, there are a few that are more susceptible than others, which is why frequent veterinary checks and appropriate treatment are so vital.

The Akbash are plagued by a number of prevalent health issues, including:

Hip dysplasia

It is possible that environmental and genetic factors contribute to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia in elderly dogs can be caused by a single hip dysplasia or by a combination of several. As part of this programme, veterinarians who specialise in orthopaedics evaluate and rate all dogs over one year of age who have had hips x-rayed. 

There are fewer symptoms of dysplasia when a set of x-rays is given a lower score. With a combined score of 106, both hips are considered perfect.

Hypothyroidism 

Middle-aged dogs are more likely to develop hypothyroidism due to hormonal imbalance, but it can also be inherited from their parents.

The development of this health problem is marked by mental dullness, cold intolerance, and obesity.

In order to prevent your pet from becoming infected with a slew of other devastating diseases, immediate treatment is necessary.

Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy 

Numerous factors can contribute to canine dilated cardiomyopathy, including a nutritional deficiency, an illness, or a genetic predisposition.

The heart has a hard time generating pressure and pumping blood via the veins in this state.

The common signs of this illness are fatigue, weakness, and weight loss. Ailment control can be improved with early intervention.

Gastric torsion (bloat)  

Bloat is a devastating illness that kills about half of affected dogs. Bloat occurs when the swollen stomach twists in the abdomen. This strains internal organs and restricts blood circulation to other tissues. Caudal vena cava (large vein returning blood to the heart) suppression can cause shock. Even when treated, up to 40% of GDV sufferers die.

While the specific origin of bloat is uncertain, some factors seem to increase the risk.

Recommended Health Test (occasional)

Hip 

Heart 

Thyroid Tests 

X-Rays 

Physical Examination

Nutrition

A low-energy Akbash diet is best suited for large breeds. Overfeeding them can lead to weight gain due to their lack of energy, so make sure to feed them on a regular schedule and never leave food out overnight. Decrease the number of sweets they receive.

The Akbash's nutritional requirements fluctuate as it matures, just like those of any other dog, from puppyhood to old age. There is too much variance in Akbash's diet, including weight, energy level, and health, to provide a specific proposal. You should seek your veterinarian for advice.

Grooming

You should brush your Akbash at least once a week to avoid tangles and mats from forming. Feathers in the coat can tangle quickly, so pay careful attention to these places. During the spring and fall, you should expect to see a higher rate of shedding. During these periods, you may need to brush your pet every day to keep up with the amount of loose hair.

The frequency with which you bathe your Akbash will be determined by how unclean it becomes. At least once a week, check to see if its ears need to be cleaned. Also, once or twice a month, clip its nails. Then make an effort to brush its teeth on a regular basis.

Exercise

Due to its role as a guardian dog rather than a herding dog, the Akbash doesn't require a lot of physical activity. These canines don't have to scurry around and move livestock to keep an eye on them; instead, they have a nice perch from which to see them. 

To maintain a healthy Akbash, you should exercise for at least an hour every day. Walking, jogging, and trekking are all excellent methods to expend some of your energy. Although this isn't the most playful breed, puzzle toys can keep your Akbash’s intellect active.

Training

When it comes to training, stubborn dogs are always a struggle. Teaching these pups might be a challenge because they are so intelligent. However, you have an ace in the hole in the form of this dog's undying desire to eat. With treats, even the most rebellious pup may be persuaded that obedience is a good thing. Then you'll have a strong motivator on your hands.

Children and Other Pets

The Akbash is a huge dog that can comfortably tolerate boisterous children. They're low-energy dogs who appreciate adults or older kids who play softly. The Akbash is a terrific active companion for children who learn how to appropriately approach and play with a huge dog.

The Akbash can get along with other pets if introduced carefully and calmly, and early socialization will help. It's best to socialize with them early. However, Akbashes aren't inherently fond of other creatures and may prefer to live alone.

Training, socialisation, and chance all play a role in how well Akbashes get along with other dogs and cats.

Puppies

Because the Akbash Dog is a big breed, puppies might take up to a year to mature. Because this breed is naturally autonomous, thorough training and socialization from a young age is required.

The Akbash's rarity isn't as important as its availability. A puppy will cost you at least $700. Preferably 8 weeks old to guarantee he's old enough to leave his mother and littermates. No health exams are recommended by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), but we recommend the normal ones for dogs his size.

The breed's rarity may also be a factor in unscrupulous sellers and puppy mills. The UKC breed standard requires a white coat, with some grey or cream around the ears. Anyone selling a different coloured Akbash is probably not a purebred.

Dogs breed related to Akbash

According to legend, the Akbash forefathers were sighthounds and mastiffs. Dogs from the Mediterranean Basin and the Middle East that are comparable to the Akbash include: (Turkey, Hungary, Italy, Spain, and France). Maremma Sheepdog, Polish Tatra, and Kuvasz are a few examples.

Kangal (Canga): The Kangal, like the Akbash, is a Turkish weapon. The Akbash, on the other hand, can be exported, but not the Kangal, which is also regarded as a Turkish national dog breed.

Anatolian Shepherd: Akbash and Kangal are thought to have bred this dog. Similar to the Akbash, this dog breed is from Turkey, but its muzzle and coloration are distinct.

Bernese mountain dog: This 2,000-year-old giant canine breed has more energy than the Akbash.