Kangal Shepherd Dog breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Kangal Shepherds
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Kangal Shepherd Dog breed
Kangal Shepherd Dogs, also known as Turkish Kangal Dogs, originate from Turkey, where they are used as livestock protection dogs, with some accounts saying that the dogs were originally bred to protect the villagers from bears and other predators.
It is only recently that the breed has been recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK. They were previously included in the same group as the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, but there are some differences.
They are known to be exceptionally loyal to their family, but can be a little unsure of strangers or other animals they don’t know. If socialised at a young age with children, they can enjoy their company. They can be protective of their family if they feel they need to be.
Due to their big size they are best suited to homes with space for them, and a big, well-enclosed garden.
Weight, height and life expectancy
They are one of the largest breeds in the world, weighing between 40 and 68kg, and from 63 to 81cm in height. Standing on its back feet, a Kangal dog can easily dwarf their owner.
Their lifespan is usually between 10 and 13 years.
What is the temperament of a Kangal Shepherd Dog like?
Kangal Shepherd Dogs bond really closely with their family. They tend to be pretty cool and calm, unless they think they need to protect their family.
Kangals are very intelligent, and can also be quite independent at times.
They don’t tend to show any dislike to other dogs in social situations, as long as they were well-socialised when young and unless they are provoked or think their family is in danger. They tend to bark quite a lot as they can be quite territorial.
They are powerful chewers and diggers, so watch for escape plans in the garden!
Our Kangal Shepherd Dog Community
“Layla is a very happy and very large dog. She loves people and long walks. She is still in a bit of a puppy mode and sometimes tries to dig holes in very random places.”
Layla’s owner, Andrea from Yorkshire
“Archie loves long walks, ear scratches and bum rubs. He also likes to talk (grumble) a lot and has a very large personality. He gets very greedy around food.”
Archie’s owner, Freya from Manchester
How much exercise does a Kangal Shepherd Dog need?
An adult Kangal Shepherd Dog needs at least 2 hours of physical exercise a day. Ideally some of this should be running to give them a good workout. They can run up to 30mph, so you need a safe space for them to get the kind of exercise they need.
Although full of energy, Kangal Shepherd Dog puppies should get less than this and a basic guide is 5 minutes per month of age. Kangal Shepherd Dogs should not be on full exercise levels until they are fully grown, which is usually around 18-24 months old.
They are such intelligent dogs, so mental stimulation is really important too, they tend to enjoy a game or a puzzle.
If they don’t get enough physical or mental exercise, they can become bored and depressed, which can make them become destructive and start barking more.
Need an extra hand exercising your Kangal Shepherd Dog? Find a local borrower today.
Do Kangal Shepherd Dogs need a lot of grooming?
They tend to be coloured brown, fawn or cream with a black mask. Their coats are short in length.
They need to be brushed at least a couple of times a week, and a bit more frequently when they are shedding, like in the spring and winter times if they are living in the family home and not working.
Their top coat tends to resist dirt, so they don’t need to be bathed very often.
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.
Are Kangal Shepherd Dogs easy to train?
It’s important to train any dog well, but there is no room for error with a dog as powerful as a Kangal. Kangal Shepherd Dogs are not recommended as a first dog, as they need someone who is experienced with training.
They are very intelligent but also quite independent, so it is important that they are trained to have excellent recall, and a strong bond with an owner that they will trust and listen to.
Training should be centred around positive praise and patience, making sure to keep training sessions engaging, fun and consistent.
Want to experience spending time with a Kangal Shepherd to decide if this breed is right for you? Borrow a Kangal Shepherd Dog near you.
What do Kangal Shepherd Dogs eat?
Adult Kangal Shepherd Dogs should eat a complete, balanced dog food twice daily. They can also have occasional treats, but like any dog, watch out for the extra calories.
Puppies should initially eat four times a day, then down to three, then to two at six months old. For most Kangal Shepherd Dogs you can make the change from puppy to adult food gradually at between 12 and 16 months old. Your pet food supplier and/or vet can advise on individual cases and food brands.
They can be prone to getting a bit overweight so be sure to watch their food intake, and that they are exercised regularly! If they are an ok body weight, you should be able to comfortably feel your pooch’s ribs, but not count them, when they are standing normally. They should also have a nice neat waist when you look from the top, and they should have a good tuck from their chest up to their tummy. If you are worried your pooch could be a bit overweight or underweight then contact your vet practice for advice.
Kangal Shepherd Dogs love a good treat as a reward, but like any dog, this should only make up a maximum of 10% of their daily calorie intake.
Are Kangal Shepherd Dogs healthy?
Like any breed of dog, there are health conditions that Kangal Shepherd Dog dogs are more prone to than others:
Bones and joints
Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint
Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint
Eyes
Entropion - this is where the eyelids roll in, causing eyelashes to rub onto the surface of the eye
Gastrointestinal
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) - this occurs when the stomach twists and gas and contents get trapped inside. It is a very serious condition and a vet should be contacted immediately!
This list is by no means comprehensive, if you have any concerns about the health of your dog, or if you want to discuss further if a Kangal Shepherd Dog is right for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
Kangal Shepherd Dogs can be loving members of the family. However, they are only a dog to take on if you have experience, space and time.
BorrowMyDoggy loves Kangal Shepherd Dogs
BorrowMyDoggy has over 70 Kangal or Anatolian Shepherd Dog members
Kangal Shepherd Dog Names
The most popular name for a Kangal Shepherd Dog on BorrowMyDoggy is Barrie.
Here's the top 3 most popular names:
- Barrie
- Bear
- Lola
Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive.If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.
