Live Life Team
Called the Sivas Kangal Dog in full, this is a native breed originating from the Kangal Region of Sivas, in Turkey.
A mastiff, or Molosser dog of ancient origin, it is similar to dogs seen on HYPERLINK “http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assyria” o “Assyria”Assyrian carvings. It is thought to have been introduced to Turkey by Asian settlers, who used them for herding and as guard dogs. However, in Turkey the Kangal has always been a guarding breed. They were once kept for ceremonial purposes by the Ottoman Empire.
A large, but finely boned Mastiff, it stands around 30 inches (75 cm) at the withers, and can weigh up to 120lbs (64kg). The short, dense coat is double layered, making the dog equally adaptable to cold Anatolian winters and the scorching summer sun.
The dog is always unbroken fawn, tan or sable in colour, with a distinct black mask and ears. This has earned it the nickname Karabush, or Blackhead. The chest and legs may also be shaded on darker coated dogs. Some working dogs have their ears cropped for protection when fighting off predators.
Attacks by jackals, wolves, bears and cheetahs are a fact of life for mountain herdsmen in Turkey, and the Kangol has been bred to be fast, powerful and fearless. Nonetheless, it is a gentle and protective dog in the company of people, seeing its family as its “flock,” and protecting them with the same dedication.
The dog is now a protected breed. It is illegal to sell Kangols to non-Turkish nationals, making it rare outside its homeland.
