Black Norwegian Elkhound vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Black Norwegian Elkhound vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonBlack Norwegian Elkhound is originated from Norway but Anatolian Shepherd is originated from Turkey. Black Norwegian Elkhound may grow 27 cm / 10 inches shorter than Anatolian Shepherd. Black Norwegian Elkhound may weigh 48 kg / 105 pounds lesser than Anatolian Shepherd. Black Norwegian Elkhound may live 4 years more than Anatolian Shepherd. Black Norwegian Elkhound may have less litter size than Anatolian Shepherd. Black Norwegian Elkhound requires Low maintenance. But Anatolian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance

History

black norwegian elkhound - historyThe Black Norwegian Elkhound was first bred in Norway in the early part of the 19th century as a smaller version of the Grey Norwegian Elkhound. The Black version is a Spitz and is very seldom seen anywhere in world but Norway. He is designed for the same job that the Grey Norwegian Elkhound performed. The difference is that the Black Norwegian is smaller, easier to see in the snow and ice of Norway and smaller than the Grey. It is a hunter, a herder, a guard dog and a watch dog. Because of the temperatures in Norway it was very important to have a hunting dog that was able to deal with the cold, the snow and the heavy fall rains in Norway and Scandinavia. The Black Norwegian Elkhound is a powerful and prideful dog. Much more so than the grey, he is independent and strongminded. It is highly intelligent and is one of the most ancient of breeds. He is more durable and more quarrelsome than his cousin the Grey Norwegian Elkhound or the more familiar Swedish Elkhound.

Ancestors of the Black date back to the first days human kind went hunting around 4000-5000BC. There have been skeletons of dogs very much like the Black Norwegian Elkhound found that dated back to that time period. They hunted and guarded for the Vikings and pulled sleds as well. They hunted deer, moose, badger, elk, mountain lions, bears, wolves, lynx, rabbit and reindeer. They are trackers who hold their quarry at bay by barking until the hunter can find them. Today they serve as loved family pets and guard dogs. In a National Emergency the leader of Norway can call up all the privately-owned elkhounds of any kind and assign them to work in a variety of sledding duties. Within the FCI, the Black Norwegian Elkhound is classified as a primitive Nordic hunting dog.

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.

Description

black norwegian elkhound puppy - descriptionThe Black Norwegian Elkhound is a short compact Spitz with dark eyes and a curly tail. It is the coat that sets this dog apart. It is an all-weather coat suitable for the cold, the snow and the rain of Norway. Ears are pointed and erect while the head is wedged and broad. His head is almost like that of a wolf. Its body is strong and compact. Its coat is coarse, short and double. He has a broad black nose with a straight bridge and with black lips and dark brown oval eyes. His legs and withers are strong boned and powerful with well padded feet to protect it from the freezing temperatures of Scandinavia.

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.

Characteristics

black norwegian elkhound dog - characteristicsThis dog was made for families. He loves children and is not a one person dogs. He gets attached to everyone in the family. However, he is smart and stubborn. He loves to join in with whatever the family is doing but he does it to please himself not his owner. He loves, loves, loves to play and has the stamina to do so all day long. He is agile, bold, independent, strong, curious and loyal. His loyalty can be territorial, and he can become protective of his home and his family. This makes him an excellent watchdog until your friends come to visit and he won’t let them in the house. You need a high fence to keep him safe in your own yard and away from strangers and even guests till he gets to know them.He tends to be dominant and aggressive with other dogs. They also have strong hunting instincts.

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.

Health Problems

black norwegian elkhound puppies - health problemsThe Black Norwegian Elkhound is a strong and hardy dog, though he is susceptible to some of the problems many breeds face. These include issues with luxating patella, optical entropion, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Fanconi syndrome. The most serious of these is the Fanconi Syndrome which is an abnormal functioning in the tubules of the kidneys. This can be a life-threatening situation.

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.

Caring The Pet

black norwegian elkhound dogs - caringThis is an energetic active dog, or she should be. Feed her high nutritious food twice a day. Do not overfeed.

The most potentially troublesome health issue is Fanconi Syndrome. This kidney disorder can impact the of the body’s absorption of electrolytes, water and nutrients. These nutrients include Sodium, Potassium, Glucose, Phosphate, Amino Acids and Phosphate

The Black Norwegian Elkhound loves to play, and they love to work. Exercise is vital, but it must be one of those two things – play or work. Don’t leave him alone to figure it out for himself or you wont like what this intelligent dog decides to do. She needs a large yard, a long walk daily but jogging with you is even better. Make him heel when on leash or he will think he oversees you. These are roaming dogs who will follow a scent anywhere and ignore your commands for her to come to you. They are better off on a leash unless you are in a dog park or a fenced yard.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound is great at all dog athletics, games and sports such as agility, rally obedience, flyball, tracking, herding.

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.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Working dog
Origin:
Norway
Turkey
Height Male:
44 - 49 cm
17 - 20 inches
71 - 76 cm
27 - 30 inches
Height Female:
43 - 46 cm
16 - 19 inches
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 20 kg
35 - 45 pounds
45 - 68 kg
99 - 150 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 19 kg
35 - 42 pounds
41 - 59 kg
90 - 131 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 11 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Giant dog
Other Names:
Norsk Elghund Svart Norsk Elghund Black Black Elkhound Norwegian Moose Dog (black)
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
Colors Available:
black
fawn, brindle
Coat:
Dense, short double coat
Double, thick, rough
Shedding:
Seasonal
Seasonal
Temperament:
Alert, Curious, Intelligent, Loyal, Stubborn
Alert, Courageous, Detached, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  2. Collie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  3. Dutch Shepherd vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  4. English Shepherd vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  5. Catahoula Cur vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  6. Catalan Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  7. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  8. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  9. Queensland Heeler vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  10. German Coolie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  11. Croatian Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  12. Red Heeler vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  13. New Zealand Huntaway vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  14. Norwegian Buhund vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  15. Polish Lowland Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  16. Mudi vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  17. Schapendoes vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  18. Nenets Herding Laika vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  19. Scotch Collie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  20. Smithfield vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  21. Smooth Collie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  22. Spanish Water Dog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  23. Swedish Lapphund vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  24. Swedish Vallhund vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  25. Thai Bangkaew vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  26. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  27. Newfoundland Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Leonberger vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  29. Alaunt vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  30. Alangu Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  31. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  32. Bisben vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  33. Moscow Watchdog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  34. Spanish Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  35. St. Bernard vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  36. Kars Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  37. Moscow Water Dog vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  38. Ciobanesc de Bucovina vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  39. Great Dane vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  40. English Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  41. Neapolitan Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  42. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  43. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  44. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Staghound - Breed Comparison
  45. Bully Kutta vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  46. Irish Wolfhound vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds