Anatolian Shepherd vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison

Anatolian Shepherd vs Alano Espanol - Breed ComparisonAnatolian Shepherd is originated from Turkey but Alano Espanol is originated from Spain. Anatolian Shepherd may grow 12 cm / 5 inches higher than Alano Espanol. Anatolian Shepherd may weigh 28 kg / 62 pounds more than Alano Espanol. Anatolian Shepherd may live 3 years less than Alano Espanol. Both Anatolian Shepherd and Alano Espanol has almost same litter size. Anatolian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But Alano Espanol requires Low maintenance

History

anatolian shepherd - historyUp 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.

alano espanol - historyAlano Espanol is a very old breed and first data originate back in the 5th century. Alano has been used as dogs for war and dogs that traveled with explorers. After some, time Alano Espanol becoming more and more popular for bullfights and wild boar hunting. Nowadays, Alano Espanol is still not recognized worldwide, but it seems like this breed is getting more and more popular. They are excellent hunters and amazing working dogs.

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.

alano espanol puppy - descriptionOn average, Alano Espanol approximately weights 34-40kg, while their average height is 56-64cm. Females are slightly smaller than male dogs.

A lifespan of Alano Espanol variates but on average it is 11 to 14 years.

Litter Size is 4-8 puppies, but it depends on every dog.

Other Names for Alano Espanol are Spanish Bulldog and Spanish Alano.

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.

alano espanol dog - characteristicsAlano Espanol is an extra-large breed but they are very well balanced breed and they tend to be very reliable and calm. They are not very comfortable living in the small apartments. They are better in houses. They are also very good with kids. Alano Espanol needs a lot of daily exercise with a minimum of 3 walks per day. Even though people used them for dogfights and bullfights through the history. They are not recommended for the first time owners because they are strong-willed dogs who tend to be leaders in the pack. Strong will and constant training are very important for them. They are very dominant breed and have Alpha character. Socialization is also very important for Alano Espanol because they are very powerful and they can easily hurt other animals. They will listen the master but it is important that they play and socialize with other animals from very young age. Alano Espanol can be a very good with other animals even in the same household, but only with proper socialization. If the dogs are the same sex, they tend to show dominance. Basically, they can be amazing pets, but it is important to train them properly.

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.

alano espanol puppies - health problemsAlano Espanol is a very strong and healthy breed. They do not have any major health issues. Aldo, as with every large breed you should be careful of dogs genetic because they might have dysplasia. However, they are very healthy dogs with no health issues so your dog will live happy and healthy life with a proper care and occasional vet examination.

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 Alano Espanol

alano espanol dogs - caringFeeding habits of any dog depend on daily activity and size. Alano Espanol should eat approximately 4-5 cups of high-quality food divided into two meals. You can also add some vegetables, fruit, oil or basically anything that you see your dog enjoy eating.

Feeding Alano Espanol puppy

Alano Espanol puppies need more food divided into 3-5 meals per day. It is very important that puppy has all the necessary vitamins and minerals to develop into a big and healthy adult.

Grooming Alano Espanol

Alano Espanol is a very easy breed to groom. They have short hair with no undercoat, so minimal grooming is all that it takes. Alano does not drool, so it is not very hard to keep them clean. They will need occasional baths, but only when they are dirty because if you bath your dog too much, the skin could dry and start to itch.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
Turkey
Spain
Height Male:
71 - 76 cm
27 - 30 inches
60 - 64 cm
23 - 26 inches
Height Female:
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
56 - 60 cm
22 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
45 - 68 kg
99 - 150 pounds
36 - 40 kg
79 - 89 pounds
Weight Female:
41 - 59 kg
90 - 131 pounds
34 - 38 kg
74 - 84 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 11 Years
11 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
4 - 8
Size:
Giant dog
Large dog
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
Spanish Bulldog and Spanish Alano
Colors Available:
fawn, brindle
Any kind of brindle; leonardo (fawn); black and brindle; sable wolf , blue
Coat:
Double, thick, rough
thick and short
Shedding:
Seasonal
Minimal
Temperament:
Alert, Courageous, Detached, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn, Territorial
Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Protective, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Hard
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Newfoundland Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Leonberger vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  4. Alaunt vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Alangu Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. Bisben vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. Moscow Watchdog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Spanish Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. St. Bernard vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Kars Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Moscow Water Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Ciobanesc de Bucovina vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Great Dane vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. English Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Neapolitan Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  18. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  19. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Staghound - Breed Comparison
  20. Bully Kutta vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Irish Wolfhound vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Samoyed vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  23. Alaskan Malamute vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  24. Bullmastiff vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  25. Great Pyrenees vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  26. Boerboel vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  27. Presa Canario vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  28. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  29. Labrador Husky vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  30. Argentine Dogo vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  31. Giant Schnauzer vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  32. Belgian Shepherd vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  33. Goldador vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  34. Bandog vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  35. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  36. Dogo Cubano vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  37. Dogo Sardesco vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  38. Beauceron vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  39. Central Asian Shepherd vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  40. Mackenzie River Husky vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  41. Black Russian Terrier vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  42. German Longhaired Pointer vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  43. Alano Espanol vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  44. Alano Espanol vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  45. Alano Espanol vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  46. Alano Espanol vs Akita - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds