Kangal Dog Breed Information – All You Need To Know

Kangal dog is a massive breed with its origins in Sivas, Turkey, and has even been declared Turkey’s national dog. Interestingly this dog was found on the Turkish stamps and coins. It is not a very common dog yet officially recognized by standard dog clubs and registries.

The American Canine Association, American Canine Registry, Continental Kennel Club, National Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, and United Kennel Club registered it officially. Moreover, there is also a club with its name in America known to be the “Kangal Dog Club of America.”

Kangal History

The Kangal Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed of large livestock guardian dogs in Turkey. It is also related to the Mastiff-type dogs. This dog’s exact place of origin is known to be the Kangal District of Sivas Province in Turkey, where it was a popular breed. Known as a sheepdog, this dog might be produced to herd the flock or to guard the farms to keep it safe from animals like boar, wolves, etc.

This sable and fawn-colored large-sized dog is very powerful to fend off predators of all sizes. The breed did not undergo any changes in behavior or appearance as it lived in isolated areas. Over recent years this breed is recognized throughout the world. The dog might mark its appearance in the US in 1985.

Kangal Characteristics

The Kangal is a large Mastiff-type dog with a short, dense double coat. He is characterized by a domed-shaped scale, tapered muzzle, and a pointy nose. The main feature of this dog is its black mask on its solid sable or fawn-colored body. There can also be dark rims around its eyes, giving fierce expressions. This bold and powerful dog has strong scissors bite teeth.

How Big to Kangal Get

Kangal is a massive breed that stands up to 30-34 inches and weighs anywhere from 110-150 lbs. The bitch stands comparatively low in a range between 28-30 inches with the approximate weight range of 90-120 lbs.

How Long Does Kangal Live

The life expectancy of your Kangal under normal living conditions is around 15 years. Keeping your pup at a healthy weight and the right living conditions is one of the best ways to ensure that they stick around for as long as possible.

How Much Does a Kangal Cost

The cost to purchase of Kangal breed will be around $1,500. Consider other initial costs as well, such as medical requirements. If it is female, it will need spaying; if it is male, it will require neutering. Other costs will be a Dog Crate, Leash for Dogs that Pull, Dog Collar, and other miscellaneous items for about $120.

Kangal Temperament/Personality

Kangal is a natural and a great guard dog as well as a good companion. It is a highly intelligent, independent, and dominant canine that tends to get along with people of all ages and develops a closer bonding with its owner. However, it would help if you did not ignore their hunting instincts and carefully supervise while with the youngsters.

Though protective, calm, friendly, and affectionate with their family, these pups tend to be aggressive toward strangers. Therefore, proper socialization at the early age of the dog is essential as it helps ensure that your puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.

Very alert and conscious, these dogs consider themselves to be constantly on duty, thus making the best guard dogs. Taking its temperaments and wonderful traits, this dog can be the right choice for “your guard dog as a companion.”

Caring for Kangal

Fierce outside but gentle by heart, the Kangal dog needs care and love like every other canine or pet. It needs early life training and socialization to remain a fit, healthy and well-mannered pup throughout his life. Positive reinforcement is the best and quick way to train your doggy.

Kangal Nutrition

An ideal Kangal diet should be for a large breed with moderate energy levels. Keep your pup in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them 4 cups of Food for Large Dogs thrice a day in regular portions. As with all dogs, this canine’s dietary needs will continue to change from puppyhood to adulthood and senior years.

How to Groom a Kangal

The Kangal requires minimal coat care in terms of occasional brushing. Make sure that there is no matting in his undercoat to avoid the hair shedding. Use a Dog Shampoo for this breed’s occasional bathing. You may need to strip his coat to remove the old and give your dog a healthy and nice look.

Kangal Activity Levels

Kangal is known for his strength and endurance. However, he needs a moderate level of less intense exercise daily to keep his energy out. Exercise is essential for both physical and mental stimulation. These dogs are well suited to live in rural areas. But they can also adapt to urban life given a spacious area such as a yard with a fence.

Caring for Kangal

Kangal is not hypoallergenic; thus, you need to keep up with regular brushing. If you notice a bad smell between baths, sprinkle his coat with baking soda and baby powder to freshen. These dog needs proper training at their early ages to behave well as family dogs.

Otherwise, their hunting instincts can make them aggressive pets. They can be the escape artists, so keep them in fence yards. The better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog.

Kangal Health

Japanese Terrier is usually a very healthy breed. It is predisposed to some minor concerns such as Ear Infections, Entropion, and Hip Dysplasia. Make sure to buy the dog from reputable and responsible breeders that offer you a health guarantee for his puppies. It is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups of the pup for its wellbeing.

Breeds Similar to Kangal

• Irish Wolfhound
• Kuchi
• Anatolian Shepherd
• Doberdane
• Akbash

Sources:

• wagwalking
• petguide
• wikipedia
• dogbreedinfo

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