The Kangal Dog is the national dog of Turkey, its country of origin. It is a large mastiff type breed that is an excellent flock guardian. It is a large, powerful and heavy-boned dog that is highly valued in Turkey not only for its outstanding abilities as a flock guardian but also for its fierce and loyal nature that makes this dog an excellent family and home guardian as well. It is also known as Karabash which means Black Head due to its black mask.
The Kangal Dog is named after the Kangal district where the dog was developed centuries ago. Although in some regions, this dog is seen as one and the same with Anatolian Sheepdog, this in fact is a separate dog breed that has evolved in Turkey. The Kangal Dog was first reported in European and North American canine literature by David and Judith Nelson, Americans who studied the dogs while resident in Turkey. The Nelsons imported their first Kangal Dog to the United States in 1985. This dog, and subsequent imports, provided the foundation for the Kangal Dog in the United States.
This large and massive dog stands between 28-32 inches and weighs around 100-160 lbs when fully matured. It has a large head that is in proportion to the body, broad and slightly doomed skull and deep muzzle. Nose is large and solid black. Medium size and slightly oval shaped eyes are brown to amber in colour. Ears are triangular, medium size, pendant and rounded at the tips. The neck is powerful and muscular, moderate in length, slightly arched, and rather thick. Some dewlap is present. The well proportioned, powerful and muscular body exudes elegance. Gentle slope from shoulder to the end and then slight arched towards the rump gives the dog a well balanced and graceful look. Deep and moderately wide chest comes with well sprung ribs. The long tail that reaches the hocks typically forms a single or double curl and carried in line with the spine. The weather resistant double coat keeps the dog safe from cold and hot seasons. It comes in pale fawn or tan color with varying amounts of sable guard hairs. All Kangal Dogs have a black facial mask.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by ANKC and UKC.
