Appearance

The AKC standard state that Anatolian Shepherd Dogs should, “appear bold, but calm, unless challenged. He possesses size, good bone, a well-muscled torso with a strong head.” Though large and powerful, Anatolians are very agile animals. The skull is wide and the muzzle is rectangular, with a blunt profile. The ears are small, pendant (hanging) and V-shaped. Anatolians' small eyes range in color from gold to brown. They have long tails which curl up and over the back of the dog when he's alert. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog's coat is only about an inch long, with a thick undercoat. Some individuals may have feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. The coat comes in many colors, including pinto, white, and brindle, and fawn with a black mask is the most common.

Size and Weight

Anatolians are large dogs, standing from 27 to 29 inches at the shoulder. Their weight can vary greatly from dog to dog and ranges from 80 to 150 pounds, with females averaging in at 100 pounds and males averaging 130. When judging, the AKC looks at the dogs general balance and preferred rectangular appearance, more so than the actual size of the dog.

Coat and Color

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog's coat is only about an inch long, with a thick undercoat. Some individuals may have feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. The coat comes in many colors, including pinto, white, and brindle, and fawn with a black mask is the most common.

Grooming Needs

Anatolians are naturally clean animals and are very low maintenance in the grooming department. Their short coats shed throughout the year, but regular brushing can keep things from getting out of hand. They are not prone to “dog odor,” so unless the dog takes a romp in the mud, baths are only required a few times per year.

Anatolians' ears hang, which can make them prone to infection. Weekly cleanings with cotton balls and a veterinarian-approved solution will kelp keep harmful bacteria at bay.