Akbash

The Akbash, which is also known as the Akbas and the Coban Kopegi, is a rare breed of dog that came from Western Turkey. It made its first appearance about 3,000 years ago when shepherds chose large, white-colored sheepdogs for their stock. Over some time and selective breeding, the Akbash was born. It is thought that the Akbash is a relative of such breeds as the Kuvasz, Komondor, Great Pyrenean Mountain Dog and the Tatra Mountain Sheepdog. Akbash dogs get their name from the Turkish word "akbas", which means white head. The breed was first brought to North America in the 1970s by researchers from Turkey.

The Akbash is a large white dog that can grow to weigh as much as 120 pounds. They have a medium-length double coat that is virtually odor-free. They are most known for their massive heads and muscular bodies. They have triangular drop-ears and a tail that is long and flowing.

Personality

While Akbash dogs are not aggressive, they are very protective and loyal. They can be quite aloof with strangers and will not back down when threatened. These dogs are very intelligent and gentle making them terrific family dogs. However, if you choose an Akbash as a pet, you will need to provide it with regular exercise. While Akbash dogs were originally bred to protect and herd livestock, these gentle giants make excellent family dogs today. However, if you choose to add an Akbash puppy to your household, you will want to be sure that you provide it with plenty of love, exercise and room to play.

Breed Characteristics

Akbash Build Information

The Akbash is a large white dog that can grow to weigh as much as 120 pounds. They have a medium-length double coat that is virtually odor-free. They are most known for their massive heads and muscular bodies. They have triangular drop-ears and a tail that is long and flowing.

Behaviour and Personality

While Akbash dogs are not aggressive, they are very protective and loyal. They can be quite aloof with strangers and will not back down when threatened. These dogs are very intelligent and gentle making them terrific family dogs. However, if you choose an Akbash as a pet, you will need to provide it with regular exercise. While Akbash dogs were originally bred to protect and herd livestock, these gentle giants make excellent family dogs today. However, if you choose to add an Akbash puppy to your household, you will want to be sure that you provide it with plenty of love, exercise and room to play.

Appearance

Due to its thick double-coat, the Akbash requires regular brushing to get rid of any excess hair. In fact, it is recommended that you brush your Akbash at least once a week. You should only need to bathe your Akbash dog about twice a month depending on how dirty it gets. Finally, you will want to trim your pet's nails as necessary.

Akbash Common Health Conditions

Akbash dogs are hardy dogs that can live up to 11 years with proper care. While this is a breed that is not afflicted with many health issues, some have been known to develop hip dysplasia. Additionally, these are sensitive dogs that require a great deal of love and attention.

Akbash Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

It is believed that Akbash dogs may have ties to various sighthound breeds. Akbash dogs are natural herders requiring little to no formal training for herding purposes.