Overview
The Dikkulak is a regional Anatolian flock guardian, distinguished from the better-known Kangal by its upright ears. Like all the Turkish shepherd types it was bred to live with sheep, decide for itself when a threat appeared and deal with it. It is big, heavy-boned and calm until it has a reason not to be.
There is very little documented about the Dikkulak specifically, and in Britain it is more or less unknown. What applies to livestock guardians in general applies here: independence, territorial instinct, suspicion of strangers and a slow, deliberate way of moving through the world.
Exercise and walking needs
Around seventy-five minutes a day, split into two steady walks. Guardians are not athletes; they patrol and rest, and they do not need or want sustained running.
Hot weather is tolerated better than by northern breeds, but a heavy dog still needs shade and water on warm days.
On the walk
- Strangers: May stand and watch anyone approaching, or place itself between you and them. Keep moving calmly and do not allow people to crowd it.
- Other dogs: Unknown dogs are a potential threat to a guardian. Avoid head-on meetings and off-lead groups entirely.
- Lead: A sturdy harness or a well-fitted collar with a fixed lead. Fifty kilos of leaning dog needs a steady handler.
- Recall: Guardians are bred to make their own decisions. Assume there is no recall and walk accordingly.
Tips for professional walkers
- Arrange several visits with the owner present before walking alone; the dog needs to decide you belong.
- Choose quiet routes and times, away from busy parks.
- Keep handling minimal and predictable; do not lean over the dog or grab its collar suddenly.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to strangers and to unfamiliar dogs, and has it ever shown aggression?
- What equipment is it walked on, and are there any legal or insurance considerations the owner wants followed?
- Is there anything the dog guards on a walk, such as the car or the owner's children?