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||Do you really want an ASD?
||10 reasons NOT to get an ASD
||Things to consider before getting an ASD
||ASDs & Children
||ASDs & Pets
||Identify an ASD||
A Guide to Identifying an Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The task of identifying an Anatolian Shepherd Dog (ASD) can be a very
challenging one. There are many variations in coat, color and markings.
This is a guide that is intended to help anyone involved in rescue to
identify a dog as an ASD when they are in doubt.
SIZE:
The first hint that you might have an ASD is their size. Few breeds
equal their stature.
The ASD male can range in size from 28"-32" measured at the shoulder,
and weigh between 95 and 160 pounds. These are approximations. A rescue
dog can likely weigh less, and other dogs have been known to weigh more.
The ASD female can range in size from 26"-32" measured at the shoulder
and weigh between 75-130 pounds. Again, these are approximations.
BODY STRUCTURE: ASDs have a slightly rectangular appearance with a deep chest and a
noticeable tuck in the underbelly.
Their back is fairly straight with an arch over the loin area..
The tail hangs with a slight curl at the end when relaxed. When the dog
is alert, the tail is curled up and over the back like a "wheel".
The ASDs usually have elongated middle toes. Their 2 middle toes are
somewhat longer than the outer toes.
The ASD's ears are always hanging down. They will NEVER have erect or
"prick" ears, as does the German Shepherd Dog. In some cases the dogs
ears may have been cropped very short and close to the head.
COLOR:
The most common color for the ASD is fawn with a black mask. This
coloring is much like that of an English Mastiff. The "fawn" coloring
can range from nearly white or pale cream to Golden, red, wolf sable or
badger, all with a black mask.
Another common color is the Pinto, with or without the mask
Other less common colors are any shade of fawn, brown, cream, with liver
mask and nose.
Also white, black or blue with black mask. & Brindle or Pinto with or
without mask.
Eye color range from dark to golden brown. Pigment around eyes lips and
nose is usually black. Liver color and sometimes mottling occur in
lighter colored dogs.
The ASD appears to resemble a Mastiff cross.
TEMPERAMENT: ASDs are very intelligent, dominant and independent dogs. They are
natural flock guardians, very territorial, and uneasy with strangers, on
or off their property, unless formally introduced.
The ASD in a shelter environment may show signs of shyness, fear or
aloofness. They are not exuberant dogs by nature and are often aloof and
reserved even at home.
Unfortunately, they do not always give the best "first impression" at a
shelter because of this behavior.
Most males, and some females, will exhibit dog aggressive behavior in a
shelter. A dog from a working home may be even more aggressive towards
other dogs.
A mature ASD will be a big, calm dog, but still has the ability to run
at great speeds. They will usually only do so if they perceive a danger
to their flock or family. Young dogs and pups are naturally more active
and playful
CHECK OFF LIST.
If you can answer "Yes" to all or most of these questions, there is a
good chance that you have an ASD on your hands.
SIZE: If this is an adult dog, does it measure over 25" at the
shoulder?
If this is an adult dog, does it weigh in excess of 75 pounds? Most
ASD's will weigh well over 75 lbs but rescues may tend to be
underweight.
BODY: If this is an adult dog, does it have a noticeable tuck to its
underbelly?
If this is an adult dog, does it have a deep chest?
Puppies and young dogs may not have developed these features yet.
Are the dog's 2 middle toes somewhat longer than the outer toes?
When relaxed, does the dog's tail hang with a slight curl at the bottom?
Only when alert will the dog hold its tail over the back in a "wheel"
form.
COAT: Does the dog have an undercoat? ASDs will always have the soft, downy undercoat, but it may vary from
being very thick to being rather thin.
These are the most common distinguishing physical characteristics of the
ASD. Each dog may not possess all, but should exhibit most.
NOTE: Puppies are more difficult to identify, as they have not yet
achieved some some of the distinguishing characteristics.
Puppies will always have hang down ears. Most will have very large feet
and be "heavy boned" or large framed dogs.
HOW TO FIND HELP.
If you think that you may have an ASD, please err on the side of caution
and contact us ASAP.
We are willing to help with ASD mixes as well as purebred dogs.
We will make every effort to work with the animal shelters or humane
societies in order to save these dogs.
Our main concern is finding caring, loving, permanent homes, with owners
whose lives and homes are compatible with these dogs' needs. These dogs
are not well-suited for the average dog owner. We find it is usually
best to place them with an owner who is experienced either with this
breed or other Livestock Guardian breeds, or other large, dominant dogs.
If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact
us.
Go directly to our list of available dogs
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