At a Glance
A Bit of Background
The history both in the UK & homeland is well documented so for now we will concentrate on the nature and appearance of the Kangal.
The Kangal is acknowledged as a National Treasure in its homeland of Turkey and is proudly spoken about in all parts of Turkey but is best known in the central areas such as Kangal and Sivas.
In their homeland of Turkey they protect the herds, mainly sheep and goats but occasionally cattle, they do not herd, they are livestock protection dogs and will protect their herd against wolves etc with their lives if necessary. Usually they work in a pack of three or more. The bitches are faster and lighter than the males but the males are more powerful. The Kangal can reach speeds of over 30 miles per hour. First appearance when you see a herd on the plains is that there are no dogs, as you approach the dogs rise from their chosen outlook point and “announce” your presence to the shepherd, they will then put themselves between you and their herd and or shepherd. A true Kangal is not by nature aggressive to humans but is extremely intimidating and vocal when demanding that you do not approach. When the shepherd appears then the dogs are immediately calm, usually approachable and friendly
They have been expressed by some as a fighting dog because of their century’s old instinct to protect the livestock and territory: they can and do have to fight wolves at times BUT 99% of the time they deter intruders by their mere presence, voice. and intimidating actions. A dog that chases distances and then fights is leaving his flock unguarded; the Kangal will never do that. They are often mistakenly described as “dogs which kill wolves and or bears”…. They are NOT they are… “Dogs which deter and protect from wolves and or bears” there is a very big difference in these two statements. The Kangal is by nature a calm dog dedicated to his master and charges
In the absence of a herd the Kangal will protect his property/territory in the same way and again he appears very intimidating and vocal, unfortunately keeping one of these dogs in a residential area can lead to neighbours complaining of noise.
Generally speaking this breed is extremely intelligent One of the drawbacks is their natural independence and the way they will question your commands you can see them thinking and working out what they think is the best way to do something (if at all!!!) Recall is not impossible but it is never 100% reliable more like 40 -60 (to them) especially if they are on a mission, the scent of a rabbit, something similar or merely your Kangal denying that it is now time to go home!!. He will do anything in his power to please you as long as it suits him to do so at the time!! They have an excellent memory. Their hearing and eyesight is exceptional and their loyalty and love is second to none. They are a sensitive dog and do not respond well to harsh treatment it is often enough to show your disapproval by tone of voice.
A large powerful looking dog always with an large head which is broad and heavy showing the black mask which can vary in degree and extent but must always be present. The head is not exaggerated in any way but is very impressive, look into his eyes and you will see great intelligence and kindness but also alertness, always he is aware of his surroundings and is ever watchful missing nothing. He is always a solid colour dog with a short double coat (Please read the Breed Standard set out further on)
The Kangal is a dog of great beauty and creates lots of attention wherever he goes, he will normally take all this attention in his stride, he is not by nature an aggressive dog but he is territorial and will announce visitors approaching his home or kennel by barking however, once introduced he is usually friendly and acceptant of them
A dog with as much intelligence as this breed has needs to have a job and so without anything better to focus on they will create a job! They thrive best on lots of human companionship and interaction.
The Kangal dog was first introduced to the UK 1965 by Dr Charmiane Hussy (then Steele) There is a Kennel Club registered club dedicated to the Kangal which is now called “The Turkish Kangal Club” (was formally known as the “Anatolian Karabash Dog Club”) Our members are far flung and worldwide. We send out a newsletter four times a year filled with news and information
If you are thinking of sharing your life with one of these magnificent dogs then please do your homework and speak to as many owners and breeders as possible we have members in most parts of the UK and all are friendly & helpful