Akbash, a Turkish word that means “white head” refers to a breed of livestock guarding dog. Turkey has two native dogs and Akbash Dogs is one of them. The lean body that is covered by the pristine white double coat gives this breed of LGD a magnificent appearance. An Akbash Dog is known for its magnificent white coat. An Akbash Dog’s coat can be sleek and medium in length or long and wavy so that the neck would have an attractive ruff that is not unlike the ruff of a lion.
Akbash Dogs are indeed natural LGDs as the don’t need training to be able to distinguish a safe situation from one that is potentially dangerous to the animals they are guarding. These livestock guarding dogs have learned as well to bite wayward stock without causing serious harm to the animals. It is typical for an Akbash Dog to look for a high spot where it can lay quietly to watch the animals under its care. This breed of working dog would thrive well in conditions where their abilities are utilized.
This Turkish breed is a natural animal guardian, one that has an admirable protective instinct. These dogs are independent workers and if danger to the animals is perceived, these dogs would move with alacrity even without the orders of the master. In recent years, more and more Akbash Dogs were transformed from being LGDs to companion dogs.
Intelligence, loyalty and the protective nature are the admirable qualities of the Akbash Dog breed. These affectionate dogs form a strong bond with the members of the human family. These qualities made these dogs ideal home companions. Akbash Dogs are not really aggressive but their protective instinct make them ideal guard dogs.
Akbash Dogs are low maintenance dogs as this breed is naturally clean. These are not very active dogs in spite of the athletic stature. These dogs are accustomed to lying down all day while guarding the animals. Unlike older dogs that would have low activity requirements, young dogs would benefit from being given opportunities to exercise. Exercise would be important for the physical development of a young dog thus it has to be allowed to play unrestricted by a leash. Akbash Dogs have the inclination to wander thus the area where they will play should be well secured with a fence.
