Overview
The Kangal Shepherd Dog comes from the Sivas region of central Turkey, where it guards sheep against wolves. It is a huge, fawn, short-coated dog with a black mask and ears, a curled tail and a bite force that is often mentioned and never worth testing. In Britain it is uncommon and increasingly seen through rescue.
Kangals are not aggressive without cause, but they are bred to make their own decisions about threats, and they will stand their ground. They are calm, patient and gentle with their family, including children, and reserved or suspicious with everyone else.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour to ninety minutes of steady walking a day suits most adults. They are not high-energy and prefer to patrol and observe. A long slow walk around familiar ground is more satisfying for them than a run.
Puppies grow fast and heavy; keep exercise moderate and avoid stairs and jumping until the owner confirms the frame has set.
On the walk
- Strength: A fifty kilo dog that decides to protect you cannot be held by force. Avoid situations that trigger it rather than relying on the lead.
- Strangers: The dog will watch everyone and may place itself between you and an approaching person. Do not let strangers pet it without the owner's blessing.
- Other dogs: Often fine with known dogs and intolerant of strange ones, especially those that run up. Choose quiet routes and give wide berths.
- Heat: Short coat but a lot of body. Shorten walks in summer and carry water.
Tips for professional walkers
- Have the owner introduce you properly, more than once, before you take the lead.
- Use a strong, wide collar or harness and a lead with a good handle. Never a retractable lead.
- Keep to routes where you can see what is coming and step aside.
- Report any reaction to people or dogs so the owner can keep training on track.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to strangers and other dogs, and what are the early warning signs?
- Has it lived with livestock, and does it try to guard anything on a walk?
- Is there a muzzle in use, and how does the dog accept it?