Spotlight Breed: Akbash 

Welcome to our Spotlight Breed article of the week. This is where we feature a fun and unique dog breed from around the globe! Today we are excited to spotlight the Akbash. This breed was originally developed in Turkey as a livestock-guarding dog. Reports of these large guardian dogs do back as far as 750 to 300 B.C. Akbash dogs tend to be independent because they must function without human assistance or guidance most of the time. As a true working dog, you will find the Akbash working as livestock guardians and working as assistance or service dogs.

This breed is a large, powerful dog. Size can range from 28 to 34 inches with weights of 80 to 140 pounds. The Akbash coat can be short or long but are double-coated and therefore heavy on the shedding side. The color of the coat is mostly white with a touch of “biscuit” color. Natural ears hang down, though in some countries they are cropped. An interesting fact about the Akbash is that many of them are born with double dewclaws on the rear legs.

The Akbash has a very interesting personality. Always remember that these are dogs selected to be suspicious and protective. They tend to make independent decisions because they are used to acting on their own. With this said, their independence can make them more difficult to train. Therefore, we recommend that you implement positive reinforcement in your training sessions. The Akbash will want something to work for!  This breed may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with. They may view them as predators. If raised with children or other pets, they will be very protective.

Keep in mind that the Akbash is uncommon as a companion dog. When trained appropriately from puppyhood on, they will get along with other domestic species. This is a breed that truly appreciates a large area. Placing them in small areas may result in behavioral issues like escaping or being destructive. Once again, this is a working breed and they will be most content when given a job compatible with its breeding, or at the least, when kept mentally engaged.

If you are looking for a dog breed that is independent, loyal, and brave, the Akbash may be for you! We will leave you with our favorite quote about the breed: “Sometimes even the best rules must be broken…I am an Akbash!”