Akbash

Akbash coats are only white. These dogs were bred to protect livestock and sheep, with their white coats helping to blend in with the flock.

They shed moderately through the year and more heavily in summer, so a good brushing once or twice a week will help to remove dirt and old hair. The coat can be fairly easy to groom if you keep up with their needs.

If they sense anything amiss, Akbashes will growl or bark at strangers, but they are not overly aggressive towards them. If you want a watchdog and guardian who will alert you to anyone who might approach your door, you can't do much better than the Akbash.

Because Akbashes are independent, they usually don't have any separation anxiety with their human counterparts. Make sure to give them some space, as they like to be on their own once and a while.

Akbashes are prone to weight gain, especially with their low energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in.

Akbashes can be socialized, but they aren't naturally fond of other animals and may prefer to be the solo pet in the household.

Because the Akbash is a large dog, they can easily handle the play of overly excited children. However, they're low energy dogs and might prefer to be around adults or older kids who know how to play gently.

Not much is known about the Akbash breed, though many believe they were first bred almost 3,000 years ago to protect shepherds' flocks from predators. The name Akbash is a Turkish word that means "white head." Their white coat is important, as it helps them blend with the flock they're protecting. They are also the national dog of Turkey.

In the 1970s, Americans Judith and David Nelson were researching this breed in Western Turkey. Intrigued by the Akbash, they introduced the breed to North American around the same time. The United Stated Department of Agriculture uses this breed in their predator control program. The United Kennel Club (AKC) recognized these amazing pooches in 1998 under guardian breeds.

Even though this breed is rare, they might still be found at your local shelter or breed specific rescues. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you and your family.

As the Akbash is a relatively pure breed, there are some standards when it comes to their size. You can expect the Akbash to be on the larger side.

Most weigh in at 75 to 140 pounds and range in height from 27 to 34 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger than average.

The Akbash breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that Mastiffs might also face, as there is a distant relation. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups.

Some of the more common health problems the Akbash suffer from include:

hip dysplasia

hypothyroidism

dilated cardiomyopathy

gastric torsion (bloat)

As with all dogs, you should keep up with your Akbash's regular veterinary checkups to to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.

Akbashes are prone to weight gain, especially with their low energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in.

Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. Trim your dog's nails before they get too long-usually once or twice per month. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this.

Another concern when it comes to your Akbash's care will be maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth as recommended by your vet, as many dogs are prone to dental issues. Your vet can instruct you on how to brush your dog's teeth properly.