Flat-Coated Retriever vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Flat-Coated Retriever vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonAnatolian Shepherd is originated from Turkey but Flat-Coated Retriever is originated from United Kingdom. Anatolian Shepherd may grow 15 cm / 6 inches higher than Flat-Coated Retriever. Anatolian Shepherd may weigh 32 kg / 71 pounds more than Flat-Coated Retriever. Both Anatolian Shepherd and Flat-Coated Retriever has almost same life span. Both Anatolian Shepherd and Flat-Coated Retriever has almost same litter size. Both Anatolian Shepherd and Flat-Coated Retriever requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Sporting dog
undefined
Turkey
United Kingdom
Height Male:
71 - 76 cm
27 - 30 inches
59 - 61 cm
23 - 25 inches
Height Female:
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
56 - 59 cm
22 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
45 - 68 kg
99 - 150 pounds
27 - 36 kg
59 - 80 pounds
Weight Female:
41 - 59 kg
90 - 131 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 11 Years
8 - 10 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
4 - 8
Size:
Giant
Medium
Other Names:
Karabaş (Blackhead), Anatolian Blackhead (Anadolulu Karabaş), Kangal Coban Kopegi • Perro de pastor de Anatolia • Anatolischer Hirtenhund • Chien de berger d'Anatolie • Anatolian Shepard Dog or ASD
Flatcoat, flatt, Flattie Flatte (Sweden)
Colors Available:
fawn, brindle
liver and yellow (blonde, black
Coat:
Double, thick, rough
double, glossy and smooth
Shedding:
Seasonal
Constant
Temperament:
Alert, Courageous, Detached, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Outgoing
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

anatolian shepherdUp in the mountains of central Turkey, in the region called Anatolia, a large, strong and rugged dog breed was born and is honored today on a postal stamp. This was the Anatolian Shepard – keeper of the flocks with strength, agility and speed. The Anatolian Shepard is able to pursue and catch any predator that threatens his livestock and they are his livestock. His keen sense of hearing and his excellent sight only add to his prowess as a protector.

The Anatolian is a giant dog, classified as a shepherd by the UKC – Kennel Club of the United Kingdom, while he is classified as a mountain dog or molossus by the Federation Cynologique International. When the breed was created, they were a gift to the farmers in the mountains to guard the livestock from cheetahs. This helped the cheetahs to stop attacking the livestock and prevented the farmers from wiping out the cheetah population by shooting them.

The Anatolian Shepard does have some controversy in his lineage as in some areas he is considered to be either the most closely related or the same breed as the Turkish Kangal Dog. The Anatolian is considered to have a blood line that goes back at least 6000 years.

They are direct descendants of mastiffs and mountain dogs. Yet they have the long legs, agility and aloofness of the sight hounds that are also in their bloodline. Originally called the “Coban Kopegi” or shepherd dog by their Turkish farmers, they were eventually separated into the breed called the Anatolian Shepard. When the breed was first brought into the United Kingdom the line of the Kangal dog was first. Then they were crossed with dogs called Anatolian Shepherds. Many breeders believe that the Anatolian Shepherd is a category that includes the Kangal, Coban Kopegi, Aksaray Malaklisi and the Akbash dog.

So as of January 2012, the Australian National Kennel Club no longer considers the Anatolian Shepard and the Kangal as separate breeds. The UK Kennel Club now recognizes the Kangal and the Anatolian as the same breed. For others they are still clearly separate and distinct breeds with the ASD being their own breed. In fact, the government of Turkey recognizes them as separate breeds and the Kangal Dog as the National Dog of Turkey.

The Anatolian Shepard was already in the United States in when the Anatolian Shepard Club of America came into being because of a young naval officer who had met the dogs in Turkey. They were allowed into the Miscellaneous Class of the American Kennel Club in 1996 after this naval officer had been breeding them in California for years. By 1998 they had moved to the Working Group where they reside today.

flat coated retrieverThe Flat-Coated Retriever traces its heritage to 19th century England. A popular gamekeepers’ dog, the actual descendants of the breed are not entirely known. Like so many well-established breeds, there are many lines of thought about the breed line. There is an unverified line of ancestry that includes the St. Johns Water Dog – an extinct breed from North America. Another story has Canadian sailors bringing their Newfoundlands to England and mixing them with Colliers and Setters. This story has more truth to it and it took 20 years to establish the final breed type.

The breed was originally a retriever with two purposes – to retrieve the hunters’ bounty on land and on water.

The Flat-Coated Retriever was then introduced to the United States as a gun dog. By 1873 it was a “stable type” and in 1915 the AKC recognized the breed. After this, their popularity grew quickly until the American public fell in love with the Golden Retriever and the Labrador Retriever. Then the Flat-Coated Retriever’s numbers and popularity fell. The irony was that both the Golden and the Labrador credited the Flat-Coated Retriever as an ancestor. The survival of the breed was questionable following World War Two. They were brought back by a specific breeding program in the 1960’s.

Breeders in the ‘60s made sure they bred for both show dogs and companion animals. The Flat-Coated Retriever survived and is less popular than other retrievers, but he has his fans. The breed is more popular in the United Kingdom than it is in the United States in part because of Best in Show wins at Crufts

Description

anatolian shepherd puppy - descriptionComing from the mountains and guarding their flock against cheetahs has led the Anatolian Shepherd to be a muscular dog with broad heads and thick necks and sturdy, strong bodies. Their ears drop and are triangular in shape, while their muzzles are rectangular with tight lips. Their double coat is thick and warm fitting for life in the mountain regions. They do blow their coats with excessive shedding twice a year. The fur on their throat is extra thick for their protection.

Muscular, thin, their rib cage is large while their stomach is small. Their tails can be intact or docked. The Anatolian Shepherd is much like the Kuvasz or the Great Pyrenees in their size, shape and responsibilities. He is more agile and slenderer than those two dogs. Their bite is scissors or level, while their eyes are almonds, set apart in their heads.

flat coated retriever puppy - descriptionThe Flat-Coated Retriever has a straight and strong topline with unique head, strong jaws, a long muzzle and small ears. His eyes are dark brown almonds with a friendly and intelligent expression. He has an arched neck and a moderately long tail. The Flat-Coated Retriever is more of an athlete, lighter and certainly more elegant than any other type or breed of retriever.

Characteristics

anatolian shepherd dog - characteristicsThis breed is independent, stubborn and strong. They are great protectors of their flocks and people, but they are incredibly challenging to own. They are intelligent, loyal dogs who learn quickly when they want to. They key being “when they want to”. The Anatolian Shepard was bred to be nomadic, following the herd and hunting for the herd’s predators. Microchip your ASD because they will roam if they get the chance.

If you want your Anatolian to get along with other dogs, cats or other animals, socialize them together when the ASD is a puppy. If the animal or child is part of his flock the ASD will protect them with his life. Though he is loving, quiet and calm, the Anatolian is just as demanding and dominating. Never let your Anatolian Shepherd believe that he is above the humans in the pack or you will have a major problem controlling him. He will be especially leery of strangers and will not accept your word that the stranger is part of the family. However, if she understands that humans are above her and you are the leader, she will accept any person you accept.

Even if they accept strangers, they will not allow anyone other than the family into the home when the owner is not there. This is a proud, proud dog that can be stubborn, demanding and bossy. Being such a large dog, you need to be in control. This is not a dog for everyone. Be firm, confident, be loving and consistent when training an Anatolian Shepherd. Do not offer your ASD any additional training in protection. He doesn’t need it and it could be detrimental. They will protect children, but they do not respect them. Therefore, supervise their interactions with children.

Children friendliness

flat coated retriever dog - characteristicsThe Flat-Coated Retriever is great with children. Just be careful they don’t knock over small children in their enthusiasm.

Special talents

They are confident great family dogs. They are “thinking dogs” and need something to work for or they will work for themselves. They can be clowns.

Adaptability

They are adaptable although their size might preclude small locations without yards.

Learning ability

Smart, thinking all the time, they are very trainable. However, they are considered the “Peter Pan” of dogs – they never grow up.

Health Problems

anatolian shepherd puppies - health problemsThis is a healthy breed without a lot of the issues that plaque other giant breeds. In one recent survey the leading cause of death among the ASD is cancer and old age. Skin issues are more prevalent than dysplasia though it does occur. They have a sensitivity to anesthesia and their immune system does take longer to mature so all young ASD should be discussed with vets before any vaccinations are given. Bloat is not as common among this breed either. They should be screened for eyelid inversion or entropion. They are susceptible to Demodectic Mange or demodicosis which is caused by a mite.

flat coated retriever puppies - health problemsFlat-Coated Retrievers have their share of health concerns from dysplasia to cancer. The breeds problems include:

  1. Hip Dysplasia – not very common
  2. PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) – can result in blindness
  3. Glaucoma - an eye disease that can result in blindness
  4. Epilepsy – very rare but still seen
  5. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation and volvulus) – fatal if not treated immediately

Cancers

Hemangiosarcoma, Osteosarcoma, Malignant Histiocytosis, and Fibrosarcoma. Studies show that about half of all Flat-Coated Retrievers die of cancer.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

anatolian shepherd dogs - caringFeed your Anatolian Shepherd a measured amount twice a day and keep him from becoming overweight. It is recommended that you feed her from 4-6 cups of dry, high quality food for the entire day. The more active your dog is, the more she will need to eat. Using treats in training is appropriate but don’t give her too many as these will add to the waist line.

Health issues

As mentioned previously this is a very healthy breed especially when compared with other giant and/or mountain dog breeds. However, they are susceptible but not prone to:

Hip Dysplasia

Should be tested for this condition in which the bones don’t fit well into the joint. Elbow Dysplasia – the same as above except it is the arm bone does not fit well into the joint. Both these conditions can cause arthritis or lameness.

Demodectic Mange

Caused by mites and a weakened immune system it can result in patches of scaly, red skin and hair loss. A generalized version can cover the entire body and can be fatal.

Hypothyroidism

This can result if obesity, hair loss, epilepsy, lethargy and other skin condition. It is easily treatable.

Entropion

Mentioned previously it causes the eyelid to roll inward and requires surgery.

Exercise and games

Your Anatolian Shepherd does not need a lot of exercise despite his size. A large yard with a good fence will do for him as long as he gets a walk daily. If they can run free in a large yard they will be happy. If not, you will need to take them to a dog park, preferable when other dogs are NOT present. You can’t assume he will be ok with other dogs. Never walk them off leash as they love to wander. They need a job to do.

Feeding the puppy

flat coated retriever dogs - caringHe will be a medium size dog. Feed puppies 3-4 times a day about a 1/8 cup of high-quality food. Feed a puppy food designed for medium size dogs or specifically for retrievers.

Feeding the adult

Feed 2 times a day about !/2 cups of dry food per meal. Do not overfeed. They have a tendency to be obese.

Points for Good Health

Maintain a healthy weight and avoid exercise before and after meals. The good news is dysplasia and epilepsy are rare in the breed.

Games and Exercises

They are very energetic and need good exercise. Long walks and a yard to run in. Remember they are hunting dogs and will chase to retrieve things so don’t let them off leash outside your yard. They will excel at agility, tracking. Rally, obedience, swimming, hunting, and jogging. They make great therapy dogs.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Anatolian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Anatolian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Anatolian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Anatolian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Anatolian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Anatolian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Anatolian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Anatolian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Anatolian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Anatolian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Anatolian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Anatolian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Anatolian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Anatolian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Anatolian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Anatolian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Anatolian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Anatolian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Anatolian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Anatolian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Anatolian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Anatolian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Anatolian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Anatolian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Flat-Coated Retriever vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Flat-Coated Retriever vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Flat-Coated Retriever vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Flat-Coated Retriever vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Flat-Coated Retriever vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Flat-Coated Retriever vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison