Large, rugged and powerful, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a working guard dog, possessing a superior ability to protect livestock.  

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog originated in Turkey more than 6,000 years ago. The Anatolian is well suited to live outdoors all year round.  Anatolians entered the United States in the 1950s and were recognized by the AKC in 1995. 

The breed’s coat can be short (one inch) or rough (approximately four inches), with all color patterns and markings, including fawn and brindle, equally acceptable.
Anatolian's have a superior sense of sight and hearing.  They are not herding dogs.  Anatolians need a handler who will be their leader.  They are independent, calm, and brave, but not aggressive.  They are good with children but as with all large dogs, should be supervised and properly introduced.  They have strong protection instincts and can be rather dominant towards other dogs.  It is important to socialize them to family and other animals at an early age.  They mature slowly and reach full adulthood at about four years old. 

If your dog is going to work as a guardian dog, they should not be a family pet.  They need to be socialized with humans but should live with their flock.  Anatolians will walk the border of their territory every night then lay down to watch over their charges.  Every few hours they will get up and walk around their flock again to make sure all is safe.  If they detect danger they will give off a warning bark.  If that does not scare away the threat they will deepen their bark making themselves sound more serious and alerting the flock to gather behind them.  If the danger persists and approaches the flock the Anatolian will attack, but this is always saved as a last resort. 

Anatolians live to be between 12 and 15 years old
They require little if any grooming, but do shed.
Male dogs can weigh between 100-150 pounds and are 28-30 inches tall
Female dogs can weigh between 90-130 pounds and are 26-28 inches tall