Akbash facts for kids
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| Other names | Akbaş Çoban Köpeği | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Origin | Turkey | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Notes | recognised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Turkey | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Akbash (Turkish: Akbaş) is a special dog breed from western Anatolia, a region in Turkey. It is a traditional type of flock guardian dog. This means its main job is to protect farm animals like sheep. The name akbaş means 'white head' in Turkish. This helps people tell it apart from other dogs like the Karabaş, which means 'black head'. The Akbash was officially recognized by the Turkish government in 2006.
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History of the Akbash Dog
The Akbash dog has a long history in Turkey. It is a traditional livestock guardian dog. For many years, these dogs have helped protect farm animals. They guard flocks from wild animals that might try to harm them. This work is especially important in the tough, hilly areas of western Anatolia.
Where Akbash Dogs Are Found
Most Akbash dogs live in certain parts of Turkey. These areas include the provinces of Afyon, Ankara, Eskişehir, and Manisa. Some Akbash dogs can also be found in other provinces. These include Ağrı, Konya, Sivas, and Tunceli.
Official Recognition of the Breed
In 2002, a set of rules for the Akbash breed was created. This was done by the Turkish Standards Institution. Then, in 2006, the Akbash was officially recognized by the Turkish government. It was added to the list of native Turkish dog breeds. The rules for the breed were even published in the official government newspaper.
Akbash Dog Characteristics
The Akbash is a flock guardian dog. Its main role is to protect shepherds and their sheep from predators. These dogs are not used for herding sheep. Instead, they stand guard and keep the flock safe.
Size and Build
Akbash dogs are known for being large and strong. A male Akbash usually weighs about 45 to 65 kilograms (about 99 to 143 pounds). They can stand about 60 to 85 centimeters (about 24 to 33 inches) tall at the shoulder. Female Akbash dogs are a bit smaller. They typically weigh 35 to 55 kilograms (about 77 to 121 pounds). Their height is usually between 50 and 75 centimeters (about 20 to 30 inches).
Coat and Appearance
The Akbash has a double coat. This means it has two layers of fur. The coat can be either long or medium length. It is almost always white. Sometimes, there might be a slight cream or biscuit color. The white coat is very important for these dogs. It helps shepherds tell the difference between their dog and a wild animal, even when it's dark. This makes it easier to keep the flock safe. Akbash dogs also have longer fur behind their legs and on their tail.
See also
In Spanish: Akbash para niños
