Blue Lacy vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Blue Lacy vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonBlue Lacy is originated from United States but Anatolian Shepherd is originated from Turkey. Blue Lacy may grow 23 cm / 9 inches shorter than Anatolian Shepherd. Blue Lacy may weigh 45 kg / 99 pounds lesser than Anatolian Shepherd. Blue Lacy may live 5 years more than Anatolian Shepherd. Blue Lacy may have less litter size than Anatolian Shepherd. Blue Lacy requires Low maintenance. But Anatolian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance

History

blue lacy - historyThe Lacy brothers came to Texas in 1858, and this breed is named after them. They wanted a strong, robust working dog. It is a working/herding dog breed that originated in Texas in the mid 19th century.

It is interesting to note that in June 2005, Governor Rick Perry brought about legislation adopting the Blue Lacy as the official Dog Breed of Texas. The breed is also registered by the National Lacy Dog Registry and the Animal Research Foundation.

Today the Blue Lacy is considered to be the perfect all-around dog, with the Lacy family history noting the breed to come from a mix of scent-hound, greyhound and coyote cross. There are theories around the scent hound used, with some believing it could have been an Italian Gray Hound, but whatever the case, the Lacy brothers established this breed under the guidelines required to develop a recognized breed.

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

Lithe, Sleek and Agile to Look At

blue lacy puppy - descriptionThe medium-sized, well proportioned, muscular and lithe Blue Lacy stands at roughly 46–53cm. He has a coat which is smooth and short and in an attractive gun-metal gray color which can be classified as blue or almost black. Other shades are also available such as cream, yellow, reddish and you also get tri-colored Lacy’s.

Pure Blue Lacy’s have some white markings on their brisket. Whatever color you have, these clean-looking dogs with their low maintenance coats are referred to as Blue Lacy’s. Their brown eyes are bright and alert, they have long tails and their ears hang down.

A Wonderful All-Round Dog

The American Blue Lacy gives one the sense of speed, agility and endurance. He is intelligent, active and alert, being an all-round dog who can adapt to being among ranchers and cowboys and then become gentle with children and his family.

With socialization, he is also tolerant of other dogs. Because he is so intelligent he can be quickly trained, and training and socialization will be recommended for him to ensure he is the perfect all-rounder he was designed to be. His alertness makes him an excellent watch dog.

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

blue lacy dog - characteristicsYour Blue Lacy is such a low-maintenance, easy dog to have. Remember to have your puppy vaccinated from distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. These vaccinations start from 6 - 8 weeks of age. Also, because different areas have different regulations surrounding the rabies injection, check with your vet about this one.

A socialized, trained Blue Lacy makes such an awesome pet but you have responsibilities towards him. You need to know precisely what is required to keep him healthy and happy.

This is a versatile working dog who is intelligent and alert but also sensitive to being mistreated. Treat him decently and in exchange you’ll have a loyal, devoted canine family member.

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

blue lacy puppies - health problemsThe Blue Lacy is generally a healthy breed, but just like with any other dog breed they will be prone to some health conditions. Blue Lacys can also suffer with the likes of hip or elbow dysplasia and hypothyroidism.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a disease of the hip where the ball and socket joint is malformed. Hip dysplasia is when the hip joints don’t develop normally. It needs to be watched as it can result in loss of function of the hip joints. The disease can often begin when the dog is still very young.

Hypothyroidism

Some breeds are genetically predisposed towards hypothyroidism, but environmental factors and certain medications can trigger autoimmune reactions. Not only that, a tight collar can also cause thyroid damage. The symptoms of hypothyroidism are weight gain, skin problems, dislike of the cold and even hair loss and then it’s time to get your pet thyroid-tested.

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

Exercise

blue lacy dogs - caringTypically of working breeds, the Blue Lacy is going to need a firm owner who provides guidance and leadership, and who is responsible with providing the Lacy with plenty of exercise. This dog was created for work, so they will be totally at home on a farm. If not, they will require long walks every day with lots of ball games too.

Grooming

Care for the Blue Lacy doesn’t take much effort. He isn’t much of a shedder and therefore has low grooming requirements. He’ll require being brushed twice a week to get rid of loose hairs. If you start early with this grooming routine, he looks forward to this ‘bonding’ session.

Routine maintenance will require nail clipping and teeth cleaning as plaque can build up and leave your pet with dental problems and gum disease. Ask your veterinarian about dental care because there are special dog-designed toothpastes and brushes. Also check for ticks and fleas in and around the ears of your dog.

Food

Your Blue Lacy is a high energy working dog so he will require a balanced diet to cater for his energy levels. He will certainly require some raw meat from time to time to avoid skin problems. Home prepared meals are also good and these can include rice, meat and vegetables.

Remember when in any kind of doubt, speak to your vet about dog food which meets the requirements of your dog, his age, his breed and his activity levels. Always have a bowl of clean, cool water available to him around the clock.

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:
United States
Turkey
Height Male:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
71 - 76 cm
27 - 30 inches
Height Female:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 23 kg
35 - 51 pounds
45 - 68 kg
99 - 150 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 23 kg
30 - 51 pounds
41 - 59 kg
90 - 131 pounds
Life Span:
14 - 16 Years
10 - 11 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Giant dog
Other Names:
Lacy Dog, Lacy Game Dog, Texas Blue Lacy
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:
Grey, blue, black, cream, tri-coloured
fawn, brindle
Coat:
short and smooth
Double, thick, rough
Shedding:
Minimal, Constant
Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Territorial
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:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  2. Collie vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  3. Dutch Shepherd vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  4. English Shepherd vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  5. Catahoula Cur vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  6. Catalan Sheepdog vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  7. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  8. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  9. Queensland Heeler vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  10. German Coolie vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  11. Bohemian Shepherd vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  12. Croatian Sheepdog vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  13. Red Heeler vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  14. Blue Lacy vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Blue Lacy vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  16. Blue Lacy vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  17. Blue Lacy vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  18. Blue Lacy vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  19. Blue Lacy vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  20. Blue Lacy vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  21. Blue Lacy vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  22. Blue Lacy vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  23. Blue Lacy vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  24. Blue Lacy vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  25. Blue Lacy vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog - 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