Kangals are primarily livestock guardians and have a natural wariness towards strangers. They are generally calm and controlled but will take courageous action if needed. These dogs require firm leadership and consistent training, along with adequate socialization. They will also need a lot of exercise, at least several hours of play, patrol, and running.
Size
A Kangal dog is a massive pup. While it may look intimidating, it’s a calm protector with a solid temperament. This breed is a herd and flock protector, which means it’s used to long periods outside moving with the livestock. They’re also used to patrolling their territory and checking in on the animals. This work helps to develop the breed’s intelligence and observance skills. It’s ingrained in them and shows up as part of their personality as pets. A Kangal is an active breed that requires plenty of exercise every day.
The best way to buy a Kangal dog for sale is through a responsible breeder. They’ll offer a health guarantee for congenital illnesses and will provide registration papers. They’ll also have their dogs tested for hereditary disorders like entropion and hip dysplasia. Some rescues will help you get a Kangal dog if you cannot find a reputable breeder. However, be prepared to spend some cash when adopting a Kangal from a rescue. This breed is costly and requires a lot of care throughout its life.
Age
If you are serious about owning a Kangal, look for a breeder that follows strict ethical standards. They will provide you with pedigree certification and health guarantees that ensure the puppies are free of congenital diseases. In addition, they may also have the puppy’s DNA tested to learn more about their ancestry and origin.
These giants can grow up to 85 cm tall and weigh 65 kg, so they are not for the faint of heart. Despite their intimidating looks, they are gentle and affectionate with their families, especially children. However, they can knock over small children in their exuberance. Kangals are true working dogs, so they are naturally vigorous and attentive. They are brilliant and will quickly adapt to their surroundings. They may become aggressive if they sense that they are being threatened. These dogs are also reserved with strangers and highly sensitive to harsh treatment. However, they are protective of their family and bonded stock. They often spend the night patrolling their fence lines and barking at any potential danger. This is to scare off predators.
Health
This working breed is primarily used for protecting livestock from predators such as wolves, bears, and the ever-present threat of lions. This power dog is incredibly loyal and bonds fiercely with its owner. Unlike other dogs, they do not respond well to obedience training – they work mostly on instinct. Like most giant breeds, a Kangal is susceptible to bloat (when a dog gulps food too quickly while swallowing air). Feeding them two smaller meals daily rather than one large meal can help prevent this condition. Due to their size, this is not an ideal pet for people with small children. However, a Kangal is a great companion for families with proper socialization and training.
If you decide to purchase a Kangal dog, it’s best to do so from a responsible breeder that follows strict ethical guidelines and provides a health guarantee. You should also expect a certificate of origin and genetic testing to be included in the price of your puppy.
Training
When a Kangal is well-trained, they are a wonderful companion for families and hiking groups. Training a Kangal dog at a young age and keeping training sessions up until adulthood is recommended. Kangals are intelligent dogs and respond well to positive reinforcement. They can also become a bit testy if an unfamiliar dog approaches their territory; this is simply the hardwired shepherding genes playing guardian!
A responsible breeder will want to ask you questions about your lifestyle before selling you a Kangal puppy. This is because a responsible breeder cares about the health and well-being of their puppies. A reputable breeder will also encourage you to train your puppy as soon as possible and continue into adulthood.
Giant breeds often require more exercise than expected. Kangals are no exception; they need regular walks and can benefit from exposure to new people and places. This will help prevent fear later in life and ensure your Kangal dog is happy and healthy. This is an easy and cost-effective way to socialize your pet.
Exercise
Kangals are working dogs requiring substantial exercise to occupy their brains and bodies. They enjoy being physically challenged, such as running or playing with agility or puzzle toys. This keeps their minds sharp and helps prevent boredom, which leads to destructive behaviors like chewing or digging. They also need a large, secure backyard to patrol and run around. Keeping a Kangal cooped up at home all day will lead to boredom and aggression, manifesting in territorial or protective barking or undesirable digging or herding behaviors. A reputable breeder can explain this and ask you several questions that help ensure you can provide the right kind of home for a Kangal dog. If you cannot provide adequate physical or mental stimulation for your pup, consider looking for a rescue dog instead. Those who can give a Kangal dog the needed lifestyle will find they’re loyal and loving companions. They’re strong but calm, with a knack for shepherding, making them a great guardian for people and livestock alike.
All About the Kangal Dog Breed – A Summary
- The Kangal dog breed originated in the Sivas region of Turkey and is believed to have descended from dogs brought by nomadic tribes from Asia.
- They have been used as guard dogs to protect livestock from wolves and other predators in Turkey for centuries.
- Kangal dogs are connected to Turkey since the early 12th century and are believed to have a connection to early mastiffs.
- The majority of Kangal dogs are bred by villagers in Sivas Province, who use them to protect their herds of sheep and goats.
- The price of Kangal dogs in India can vary depending on factors such as purity of the breed, heritage, place of import, and the authenticity of the breeder.
- Kangal dogs have a large and strong appearance with drop ears and ideal proportions.
- They are primarily stock guardian dogs and exhibit vigilance, territoriality, and protectiveness towards their family and livestock.
- Kangal dogs have a stable temperament and are usually not aggressive towards people, but may be wary of unfamiliar dogs.
- Their lifespan is around 13 to 15 years, and they reach a height of 28-30 inches and a weight of 110-145 pounds for males, and 90-120 pounds for females.
- Grooming Kangal dogs is relatively easy, with regular brushing and occasional bathing required.
- Training is essential for Kangal dogs due to their natural aggression and intelligence. They are excellent guard dogs but need proper guidance and supervision.
- Health issues that can affect Kangal dogs include eyelid issues, lump formation, and hip joint deformities like hip dysplasia.
- Kangal dogs are distinct from Anatolian Shepherds, although they share some similarities. Anatolian Shepherds are more of watchdogs, while Kangal dogs assist in herding and protecting livestock.
- Some interesting facts about Kangal dogs include their natural breed consistency, their status as Turkey’s national canine, and their ability to defend a herd of sheep with just two or three dogs.
- The Kangal dog breed requires patient training and consideration of their temperament and trainability before making a decision to adopt one.