Kangal – the guard dog with strength and personality
The Kangal – not just a dog, but a true guard and protector. Behind the imposing façade lies a breed with history, character and a strong protective instinct. With a height of 72 to 86 cm and a weight of 41 to 66 kg, depending on gender, the Kangal is not a barker for beginners. This four-legged friend needs an experienced pair of dog owners who take its role as guardian seriously.
*History of the Kangal
The roots of the Kangal lie deep in Turkey, more precisely in the tradition of the Anatolian shepherd dogs. Since the 1960s, the Kangal has also made a name for itself internationally and has been exported to various countries and spread worldwide. In Turkey, it has even achieved the status of a national dog – with its own coin and two stamps!
*Appearance – strong and beautiful
Look at him, the Kangal! A real muscle pack, a proud male dog that grows between 65 and 78 cm tall. His coat is fine and dense, with an impressive undercoat. It is short in summer and three to seven centimetres long in winter. His coat color ranges from light cream to dark grey, his face and floppy ears are black. The dark eyes match the coat color perfectly. To keep the coat looking beautiful, it must be brushed regularly.
*The nature of the Kangal – not for beginners!
The Kangal is not a cuddly dog for beginners, that’s for sure. Although it is blessed with a friendly temperament, it also has a good deal of character. This dog needs clear instructions and a straight line – it has no place in the city.
*When the Kangal barks – keep your ears open!
His barking is unmistakable. Continuous barking means that he has discovered something in his territory that does not belong there. If it gets louder and faster, the Kangal has its sights set on a possible danger in the vicinity. If it starts growling and baring its teeth, the situation is serious. The closer the threat comes, the greater the likelihood that the Kangal will intervene.
Worth knowing – Not for nothing “potentially dangerous “.
It is not without reason that the Kangal is classified as “potentially dangerous”. Since 1975, it has even been trained in the army in Turkey – defense and rapid intervention are part of the training plan there. When deciding on the right Kangal, the place of birth is crucial. Dogs from Turkey can not only be trained for military purposes, but can also suffer from uncontrolled reproduction.
*Important note on “dangerous dogs
Before deciding on a Kangal or a dog of a similar category, you should be aware of what you are doing. These breeds have certain behaviors in their genes that are non-negotiable. Shepherd dogs can charge at moving objects that they see as prey or threat. This is in their nature and every dog owner should be aware of this.
*Conclusion – powerhouse with a heart
With its history, appearance and character, it is not for everyone. For experienced dog owners who can make clear statements, the Kangal is a loyal companion and protector in all situations. With its friendly temperament and strong protective instinct, it is not just a dog, but a family member with strength and personality.
New dog breed descriptions in a quick overview