How to Groom an Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has many names, including the Coban Kopegi and the Karabas. They are large dogs belonging to the Flock Guard group. They are trainable and intelligent, but need a fully competent master who can lead it at all times. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog's harsh double coat is usually fawn-colored with a black mask. They require a full grooming every 12 weeks and a general grooming once a month.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Natural bristle brush
• Scissors

1. Brush the coat with a natural bristle brush fairly regularly to clean the coat and remove shed hair. This reduces the need for bathing and keeps the dog's coat free of the knots and tangles that can accumulate in the undercoat. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs have massive sheds twice per year.

2. Trim any stray or excessively long hairs under or around the feet with scissors. Stray hairs aren't a common occurrence for this breed, but you should take care of them quickly to prevent anything from getting stuck to the feet.

3. Check the ears regularly for signs of wax buildup and inflammation which can occur if dirt or debris get stuck in the ear canals.

Tips & Warnings

• These dogs have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
• Anatolian Shepherd dogs are Asian herding dogs which helped to protect sheep and to keep shepherds company. People used their ancestors for hundreds of years as hunters and war dogs.
• Some Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to eyelid entropion, hypothyroidism and hip dysplasia. They don't deal well with anesthesia. Their immune systems aren't as strong as many other dogs so make sure your vet gives younger Anatolian Shepherds an extra vaccination to prevent parvo-virus.