The Akbash Dog is a large working dog that originates from the regions of Turkey, where they were traditionally used as flock guardians.

They have become popular in Europe and North America in recent years due to their docile nature, loyal companionship, keen intelligence, and impressive size.

This breed is especially well-suited to rural environments with plenty of space to roam and exercise. The Akbash Dog’s intimidating presence makes it an excellent deterrent against predators such as wolves and bears.

At the same time, its calm disposition allows it to form strong bonds with humans alike. Let’s look at what makes the Akbash Dog so unique.

Akbash Dog Appearance

Akbash Dogs are potent animals with a muscular and athletic build. They boast a noble presence and have an impressive size, with males typically reaching heights of 27 to 32 inches and weighing around 100 to 140 pounds.

Females are slightly smaller, standing between 25 and 30 inches tall and weighing roughly 80 to 120 pounds.

Akbash Dogs features a thick double coat, providing excellent protection from the elements. The fur is usually white but may also present gray or cream-colored patches.

Akbash Dog Personality

The Akbash Dog is renowned for its loyalty, trustworthiness, and calm demeanor. This breed makes an excellent companion to those who can commit themselves fully to providing the attention and care this active working dog requires.

As mentioned, they form strong bonds with their owners that can last a lifetime. Akbash Dogs can also be somewhat aloof with strangers, so socializing them from a young age is recommended to ensure they remain comfortable around unfamiliar people and animals.

Akbash Dog Health

Akbash Dogs are generally healthy and robust; however, their large size makes them prone to certain conditions, such as joint problems and weight gain.

To keep your pet in peak condition, providing them with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and plenty of love and attention is essential.

Regular visits to the vet for check-ups will also help keep your Akbash Dog in good health throughout its life.

Akbash Dog Care

The Akbash Dog requires a consistent routine when it comes to caring. Grooming should be done regularly, as they have a thick double coat.

Brushing once a week will help prevent mats and tangles from forming in their fur. Additionally, regular exercise is essential to keep your Akbash Dog fit and active.

This breed loves to go on long walks and play with its family outdoors, so ensure you provide ample opportunities for this type of activity.

Overall, the Akbash Dog is an impressive working dog that makes an ideal companion for those willing to provide them with the attention and care this loyal and intelligent breed requires.

If you’re looking for an assertive canine friend with a gentle nature and strong protective instincts, the Akbash Dog may be the perfect pet for you.

Common Health Issues And Concerns

There are several common health issues and concerns that Akbash Dog owners should be aware of. These include:

·         Osteochondritis Dissecans

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is where the cartilage around a joint wears away, causing inflammation and pain.

In Akbash Dogs, this usually affects the shoulder joint or elbow joint. An infection or injury can also cause it to the affected area.

·         Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is common in large breed dogs such as the Akbash Dog and is caused by abnormal hip joint formation.

Symptoms include difficulty standing up, exercise intolerance, lameness, and pain in the hind legs. Treatment options include medication, physical therapy, and surgery.

·         Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can be mild, such as staring off into space, or severe enough to cause loss of consciousness. Treatment options include medication and lifestyle changes.

·         Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a type of heart disease in which the heart walls become thickened and malfunction. Symptoms include exercise intolerance, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Treatment includes medications, diet changes, and sometimes surgery.

·         Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Autoimmune thyroiditis is an immune system disorder that affects the thyroid gland and causes it to produce too much or too little of certain hormones.

Symptoms vary depending on which hormones are affected but can include weight gain or loss, excessive thirst or urination, hair loss, lethargy, behavior changes, and more. Treatment usually involves medication to balance the hormones and reduce inflammation.

·         Gastric Torsion (Bloat)

Gastric torsion, also known as bloat, is a condition where the stomach twists on itself and restricts blood supply to other organs in the body.

If left untreated, it can be fatal. Signs of gastric torsion include non-productive vomiting, restlessness, elevated heart rate, pale gums, distended abdomen, and labored breathing. Immediate medical attention is needed if these symptoms occur.

·         Umbilical Hernias

Umbilical hernias are common in Akbash Dogs and occur when the intestines push through an opening near the umbilicus (belly button).

They are usually painless but can cause complications if they become enlarged or strangulated and require surgical repair.

·         Cruciate Ligament Injuries

Cruciate ligament injuries, also known as ACL tears, occur when the cruciate ligaments that support the knee joint are torn or stretched. Symptoms include limping, swelling, and pain in the affected leg, and usually require surgery to fix them.

·         Cancers

Akbash Dogs can be prone to various types of cancer, such as osteosarcoma and lymphoma. Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that causes lameness due to painful bone lesions.

Treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes and can cause swelling, lethargy, and weight loss. Treatment usually involves chemotherapy or other medications.

Overall, Akbash Dogs are generally healthy, but they can be prone to specific health conditions. It’s essential to watch for any signs of illness or injury to maintain their health and quality of life.

If you have any concerns about your Akbash Dog’s health, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian so they can provide a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Conclusion

The Akbash Dog is a large working dog native to Turkey, recently popular in Europe and North America. This breed is especially well-suited to rural environments, as they are an effective deterrent against predators such as wolves and bears.

Akbash Dogs have a muscular build, reaching heights of 27-32 inches for males and 25-30 inches for females.

They boast a thick double coat that is usually white but may also present gray or cream-colored patches. Personality-wise, they are known for their loyalty and trustworthiness, forming strong bonds with their owners over time.

Regular exercise, grooming, and visits to the vet will help keep your Akbash Dog healthy throughout its life.

All in all, the Akbash Dog makes an ideal companion for those who are willing to provide the attention and care this loyal and intelligent animal requires.