Akbash Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Akbash is a large, lean, white Turkish guardian whose name means white head. It guards flocks across open country and has a more athletic build than many mountain guardians.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in western Turkey to protect sheep from wolves. Akbash dogs are large and long-legged, with a lean, athletic build, a long head, drop ears, a short or medium white coat and a long tail. They can run fast.

Temperament

They are calm, loyal and protective. They bond with their flock or family. They are suspicious of strangers. They are alert, particularly at night, and bark to warn. They are independent and strong-willed.

Exercise

They need moderate exercise, with daily walks and room to patrol. They can sprint. Strong, tall fencing is essential.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use calm, consistent, positive methods and early, thorough socialization. Do not expect off-leash reliability. Work with an experienced trainer.

Coat and grooming

The coat needs weekly brushing and more during seasonal shedding. See short coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

The breed is generally hardy, but topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Eye conditions
• Obesity. See dog obesity risks
• Sensitivity to anesthesia, as in some sighthound-type breeds

Living with an Akbash

They suit experienced owners with large, rural, secure property. They are poorly suited to apartments and towns.

A typical day

An Akbash rests in the day, patrols at dusk and night and watches. They like a job guarding.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are large and fast-growing. Begin socialization, handling and training. Avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, fencing and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate heat reasonably well, but need shade and water. Travel requires a large vehicle.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include weak fencing, poor socialization, expecting off-leash reliability and expecting a pet-like dog.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip scores, the parents' temperaments and working background. Meet the parents.

A lighter guardian

Compared with heavy mountain guardians, the Akbash is lighter and faster. This agility helps on open range, but it also makes the dog a skilled escape artist, so fences matter.

Predator control in practice

Farmers use Akbash dogs to deter coyotes, wolves and other predators. Dogs raised with livestock from puppyhood are most reliable.

Daily care checklist

Provide secure fencing, shade, water and a daily walk. Brush weekly, trim nails, check ears and watch weight. Plan ongoing socialization.

Is it the right breed for you?

An Akbash suits experienced owners with space and a working need for a guardian. It may not suit pet owners in towns. For a related Turkish guardian, see the Kangal.

Working with a sighthound-like guardian

Because the Akbash is lean and fast, it can cover ground quickly and may chase passing animals or vehicles. Never trust it off-leash near roads, and plan a fence that is at least six feet tall. Many owners add a roller bar or buried barrier to deter climbing and digging. Allow for exercise in a large paddock, and give the dog tasks such as patrolling a defined boundary.

Sensitivities

Like some other lean breeds, Akbash dogs may react differently to anesthesia and some medications. Tell your veterinarian the breed before any procedure so they can plan appropriately.

The takeaway

Akbash dogs are white, lean and watchful, and they need space, fencing and experienced handling.