The Anatolian Shepherd is a smart dog, which makes them the ideal working dog. They are the guardians of the flock. They can and will show affection to their owners and the family as long as they are cared for properly. This breed of dog has energy and will stand guard over its territory rather than run around. This is what makes so them so valuable to farmers everywhere. They will serve and protect the flock without concern for their own safety.
Socializing With Dogs and Other Pets
The Anatolian Shepherd is not one to socialize with other dogs. The Anatolian prefers to be the only dog and will feel threatened if other dogs enter its territory. This, however, can be resolved by introducing the puppy to other dogs early and starting the socialization with other dogs.
The Anatolian does get along fine with other animals. They can live with cats, ferrets, birds, and all the farm animals you can think of on the farm. They are protectors of these other animals and will not let harm come to them. This does make the breed great for families with other animals other than another dog.
This, however, can be different if they are raised with other dogs. That is why early socialization with other dogs is so important in this type of dog breed.
Exercise, Training, and Grooming
The Anatolian only needs a moderate amount of exercise to stay fit and healthy, while they will run when they need to when protecting their territory. Training should start early for basic commands such as come, sit, lie down, and stay. The "stay" aspect of the training may be harder to accomplish. As for their grooming needs, the Anatolian needs only a small amount of grooming since their coats are short. Usually a weekly brushing will be sufficient.
Heat and Cold Affects
The Anatolian Shepherd is accustomed to cold, as they are an active outdoors guardian of the flock and territory. They can remain outside in colder weather for longer times, but it is recommended that they have a warm shelter as well as food and water to keep their bodies healthy and able to generate heat.
As for heat, they tolerate cold much better than they do heat. They need plenty of water and a shaded area to cool down after being in direct sunlight. They will succumb to heat exhaustion just as any other dog breed. On a scale of one to ten, the Anatolian Shepherd receives a six for heat and an eight for cold tolerance.
Understanding the Anatolian Shepherd is important if you are considering having one as a member of your family. They are a loyal and loving dog for a family, but you need to understand the work and caring that the dog breed needs. It is essential to train the puppy as young as possible to develop the needed skills to live within a family. They are natural born guardians.
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