The Kangal is an exceptional hunting dog breed that dates back to the reign of King Ashurbanipal of Assyria. It is regarded as one of the “Four Great Fighting Dogs” and is also recognized as the national dog and a national treasure of Turkey. They are highly respected, so much so that the country’s currency features the image of the Kangal dog.
The Kangal, also known as the Sivas Kangal Dog and Anatolian Shepherd Dog, is referred to as Karabash in Turkish, meaning “black head.” They are considered a national asset in Turkey.
Kangal dogs are used to protect livestock in Turkey.
The Kangal is a large and powerful breed with a very sturdy bone structure. Due to their large appearance and size, they are effectively used to protect livestock against predators such as wolves, bears, and other wild dogs.
The body structure of the Kangal has some notable features, including a long body relative to its height. Their forelegs constitute half of their height. Kangal dogs are used to protect livestock in Turkey.
Kangals are very calm, easy to control, independent, and highly protective. They tend to be wary of strangers but are very affectionate towards their owner’s family and friendly with other members, especially children. A well-trained Kangal is highly sensitive and quick to alert to imminent dangers, ready to attack if necessary.
Kangal dogs are said to have a ‘king’s bite force’ comparable to that of a lion.
Due to their large size, Kangals can withstand attacks from dangerous animals such as wolves, bears, and wild dogs. Therefore, they are nicknamed “professional wolf killers.” It is believed that Kangals have a “king’s bite force” comparable to that of a lion.
Despite their relatively large size, Kangal dogs can run at speeds of up to 50 km/h. This speed makes them well-suited for hunting tasks.
Kangal dogs are considered to have a “massive” physique, weighing up to 57 kg. Some reports suggest they can fight on par with bears or wild dogs. This breed is typically raised in vast grassland areas.
