Anatolian Shepherd Breed Profile
With its ancient origins in Turkey more than 6,000 years ago, the Anatolian Shepherd was bred to guard and protect flocks from predators. It is a sturdy, large, tough breed, very independent in nature, which endured the nomadic, difficult life of the shepherd and the harsh climate of its native land. The AKC cites the breed's "loyalty, independence and hardiness" as the basis for fanciers' appreciation for the breed, though this very independence may make training it difficult: this dog was bred to be able to decide, on its own, who was friend and who was foe, and to act quickly on such decisions, as the life of the flock depended upon this ability. The Anatolian Shepherd is both large and rugged, very agile, and a tireless worker. His even temperament and calm demeanor may be deceptive: once challenged, he is a fierce adversary.