What makes the Kangal Dog Unique?
Alert, on guard, and responsive, this guardian of flocks also makes an excellent family watchdog. In its role as protector, the Kangal Dog tends to take a stance against predators rather than fighting them, although this breed has a less aggressive demeanor than some of the other giant guardian dogs. Intruders would certainly think twice if confronted by a Kangal Dog just standing there.
Breed Groups
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| Size: | Males – 77 to 86 cm (30 to 32 inches) Females – 72 to 77 cm (28 to 30 inches) |
| Weight: | Males – 50 to 66 kg (110 to 145 pounds) Females – 41 to 54 kg (90 to 120 pounds) |
| Origin: | Turkey |
| Life Span: | 13 – 16 Years |
| Colour: | Cream to light tan to gray in a sable pattern with a black mask |
| Litter Size: | 5 to 10 puppies |
Is the Kangal Right For You?
The Kangal Dog has always been around people in its native Turkey. It tends to be reserved with strangers, but interacts well with family members. These dogs are good with children, but may not be good with other animals.
Working Kangal Dogs get sufficient exercise, but companion dogs should get at least one long daily walk. They also need consistent mental stimulation.
Kangal Dogs require little grooming, except when they shed heavily twice a year.
In 5 Words
- Calm
- Independent
- Powerful
- Protective
- Alert
Characteristics
Learn About the Kangal Dog
Description
General Description
The Kangal is a breed of livestock guardian dog, originating from the Kangal district in Sivas Province, Turkey. It is of an early mastiff type with a solid, pale tan or sabled coat, and with a black mask. According to the official Kangal organisations in Turkey – Cynology Federation Of Turkey (KIF) and Ankara Kangal Derneği (ANKADER) Kangals in Turkey may also be brindle or recessive black tan pattern; with or without a black mask; and/or with white markings.
While the Kangal is often referred to as a sheep dog, it is not a herding dog, but rather a flock guardian that lives with the flock of sheep to actively fend off wolves, bears and jackals. The Sivas Kangal Dog’s protectiveness, loyalty and gentleness with small children and animals has led to its growing popularity as a guardian for families as well, as it regards people as its “flock” and guards them with extreme devotion.
Size
There are subtle variations given in the standards used by different countries when describing the height and weight. In the Kangal’s homeland of Turkey, the only measurements desired are quoted by KIF as a height at the withers of 65 to 78 cm (26 to 31 in) with a two cm tolerance either way. KIF does not differentiate between male and female statistics. Although other standards internationally are fairly consistent with each other, they are at odds with KIF as their guidelines are for a larger dog. In the UK, the Kennel Club interim standard states the height at shoulders should be males 74 to 81 cm (29 to 32 in) with females at 71 to 79 cm (28 to 31 in) without specifying any weight guidelines. The New Zealand Kennel Club quotes height for males as 76 to 81.5 cm (29.9 to 32.1 in) with a weight of 50 to 63 kg (110 to 139 lb) and a bitches height as 71 to 78.5 cm (28.0 to 30.9 in) weighing 41 to 59 kg (90 to 130 lb). In America, the only agency to recognise the breed is the UKC and its standard gives 30 to 32 in (76 to 81 cm) for males, weight 110 to 145 lb (50 to 66 kg) and 28 to 30 in (71 to 76 cm) for females with a weight of 90 to 120 lb (41 to 54 kg).
Coat
The Kangal Dog has a short, dense coat that does not require a great deal of grooming. The coat is generally fawn or tan in color with a black facial mask and black shading on the ears. Some white markings may be allowed on the chest, chin or toes but the coat should not be spotted, brindled or broken.
Short History of the Border Collie
The Kangal Dog originated in the Sivas province of central Turkey. This ancient breed is thought to be related to the Mastiff-type dogs that existed in the Assyrian Empire around 600 B.C. Though the Kangal Dog began as a dog of the nobility, it is now appreciated by people who revere its working ability.
The Kangal Dog is still popular in Turkey, where it is considered a national treasure, and can be seen in Europe and the U.S.
Temperament
Kangal’s nature and personality are what most people love about the breed. They have a rock-solid, stable temperament. They are quiet and calm, devoted, controlled and trustworthy. They are brave and protective without undue aggression. Temperament is of prime importance in Turkish villages: viciousness or aggression with people or livestock is never tolerated. Kangals are working dogs, watchful, territorial and highly reliable. Naturally, as guardians they tend to be dog-aggressive. They do well with pets and livestock if introduced to them at an early age. They are gentle with children and tolerant of neighbors, visitors, or workers. Once used to their surroundings, they are able to judge what belongs in their environment and what doesn’t. Some owners report that females tend to be more affectionate than males. Kangal dogs are quite independent. They tend not to play games. They don’t get easily excited, hyper, or loud.
Caring for Your Kangal Dog
Grooming & Bathing
This breed requires little grooming. The coat needs thorough brushing-out during the twice a year shedding season. You can get away with little attention the rest of the year. The Kangal Dog is a seasonal, heavy shedder.
Exercise & Training
The Kangal Dog is a large dog and needs plenty of time to stretch its legs and work off its energy during the day. These dogs are not overly active but they do require outdoor space and daily exercise.
Kangal Picture Gallery
