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Akbash

The Akbash is a Turkish livestock guardian from the western Anatolian plateau, always white — the name means white head — which historically let shepherds distinguish the dog from a wolf at distance.

It stands 71 to 86 centimetres and weighs 34 to 64 kilograms, with a double coat of medium length, and lives ten to twelve years. It combines mastiff mass with sighthound leg length, giving it more speed than most guardians. Like the Anatolian it works alone with stock, thinks for itself, and is reserved and watchful rather than sociable. It is uncommon outside working contexts and is best suited to them.

Origin
Western Anatolia, Turkey; a livestock guardian
Size
71–86 cm; 34–64 kg
Lifespan
10–12 years
Coat
White double coat of medium length
Temperament
Independent, watchful, reserved with strangers
Health
Hip dysplasia, bloat, hypothyroidism

2 akbash photos, newest first

Akbash feed
  • Tansy II, a akbash

    Tansy II

    Tansy II was promoted to train dispatcher handling one tiny late train; unfortunately, a single enormous sock appears without explanation.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Tansy II, a akbash

    Tansy II

    Tansy II pretending the mud was not their idea.

    SunnyHeron · 2 weeks ago

Living with a akbash

This is a working dog and does best with stock to guard. Placed as a suburban pet it is often unhappy and its owners more so — the barking, the territoriality and the indifference to obedience are all the job showing through.

Socialise extensively from puppyhood if the dog will meet people, because a guardian that has not learned who belongs treats everyone as an intruder.

Fencing must be high and secure.

They are deep-chested and at risk of bloat — gastric dilatation-volvulus. Learn the signs: unproductive retching, a swollen abdomen, restlessness. It kills within hours and needs emergency surgery.

Ask for hip scores and a thyroid check, and grow puppies slowly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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