The Akbash is a rare, purebred dog from the country of Turkey. Loyal, alert, and intelligent, these pups have some of the best qualities you could ask for.
These pooches go by several other names, including Coban Kopegi, Akbaş Çoban Köpeği, and Askbash Dog. Despite their status as a rare breed, you may find these purebred dogs at local shelters or rescues. Remember it’s always better to adopt and not shop!
These amazing pups are very protective of their families and have strong guarding instincts. They’re big dogs and better suited for larger homes with yards or near open areas where they can roam around. They’re fiercely independent but love to be around their human family. Akbashes are great with children but need early socialisation if they’ll live with other dogs or pets in the home. If you want a protective and loyal dog who will love you unconditionally, then the Akbash may be right for you!
- Dog Breed Group:Working Dogs
- Height:27 to 34 inches
- Weight:75 to 140 pounds
- Life Span:10 to 12 years
Size
As the Akbash is a relatively pure breed, there are some standards when it comes to their size. You can expect the Akbash to be on the larger side.
Most weigh in at 75 to 140 pounds and range in height from 27 to 34 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger than average.
Personality
The Akbash is a gentle dog who is very protective of their family. They’re independent and like to have their own space from time to time. Originally bred to protect flocks of livestock, they still have those strong guard instincts today.
These pups are highly intelligent and, though they don’t have explosive energy, are quite agile and strong if they sense danger and need to act. If they sense anything amiss, they will growl or bark at strangers, but they are not overly aggressive towards them. If you want a watchdog and guardian who will alert you to anyone who might approach your door, you can’t do much better than the Akbash.
This dog needs a strong and consistent owner who can also be sensitive to their needs when training. They can be easily trained, but make sure to socialize them early to other dogs or pets who they might live with in the house.
Because they are independent, they usually don’t have any separation anxiety with their human counterparts. Make sure to give them some space, as they like to be on their own once and a while.
Health
The Akbash breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that Mastiffs might also face, as there is a distant relation. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups.
Some of the more common health problems the Akbash suffer from include:
- hip dyspepsia
- hypothyroidism
- dilated cardiomyopathy
- gastric torsion (bloat)
Care
As with all dogs, you should keep up with your Akbash’s regular veterinary checkups to to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.
Akbashes are prone to weight gain, especially with their low energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in.
Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. Trim your dog’s nails before they get too long—usually once or twice per month. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this.
Another concern when it comes to your Akbash’s care will be maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth as recommended by your vet, as many dogs are prone to dental issues. Your vet can instruct you on how to brush your dog’s teeth properly.
Feeding
An ideal Akbash diet should be formulated for a large breed with low energy. Because of their low energy, they have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their number of treats, as well.As with all dogs, the Akbash’s dietary needs will change from puppy-hood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Akbash’s diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs—including, weight, energy, and health—to make a specific recommendation.
Coat Color And Grooming
coats are only white. These beautiful pups were bred to protect livestock and sheep, with their white coats helping to blend in with the flock. There are no other accepted colours of the pure Akbash breed.The Akbash has a medium-length double coat. They shed moderately, so a good brushing once or twice a week will help to remove dirt and old hair. The coat can be fairly easy to groom if you keep up with their needs every week.Because they tend to have longer coats, the Akbash isn’t particularly suited for extreme weather. They shed a lot during the summer. Make sure to prepare accordingly if you take them anywhere with extreme weather.