Kangal - Learn everything about this huge breed

For lovers of large dogs, the Kangal breed is the ideal companion. It is a giant dog that surprises not only because of its size, but also because of its reserved, imposing and protective character, which makes it stand out. Uncommon since its origins, this breed has been associated with other canines due to its height and some details. However, his peculiar physical characteristics have made him well recognized in society. However, a dog with this proportions is not usually easy to care for. That is why, before adopting an animal of this breed as a pet, it is important to know all the details regarding it. Delving into its ancient and interesting history, care, temperament and appearance, and what sets it apart from other breeds will help you decide if this particular breed will be the right pet for you. Be sure to read the information that our team has prepared to introduce you to the Kangal, a large dog.

• Size : Giant.
• Weight : Between 40 and 60kg.
• Hair type : Medium and straight.
• Character : Sensitive, Alert, Independent, Protective, Calm
• Health : Healthy
• Life expectancy : Between 10 and 11 years.

Origin of the Kangal

Also known as the Turkish Kangal dog, this breed has its origins in the province of Sivas , Turkey, specifically in Central Anatolia, which is why it has frequently been confused with the Anatolian Shepherd breed. However, its history seems to go back further into antiquity. And, according to research, its existence has been determined during the Roman Empire where, apparently, soldiers used it as a walking companion. With certainty, the place of origin of the breed is the only documented information that exists, since no more data has been collected about its descendants. What is known is that this little friend is the result of a cross between three animals of this species: the Assyrian molossers, the Roman molossers and the English Mastiff . It is presumed that these crossings were made by the Romans, in search of a brave animal, of prominent size that would serve as protector of their flocks. Subsequently, it is believed that the dog was transferred to Turkey, where the existence of the Kangal breed as it is now known began, representing a valuable treasure for the Turkish community. Its integration into a species of herding dogs, or livestock guardians, has made it closely linked to the Anatolian Shepherds breed, to the point that the International Cynological Federation and the American Kennel Club deny the existence of the breed itself. . However, smaller organizations, but renowned in society such as the United Kennel Club and the British Kennel Club, recognized this breed, giving it a particular distinction, due to its distinctive characteristics.

Physical characteristics

The Kangal breed is listed as one of the largest of the canine species. It is a dog of notable dimensions, especially in weight and height, which makes it an imposing, muscular and robust animal similar to the mastiff. It is a dog with great strength, therefore it can be difficult to handle, because it usually looks intimidating due to its enormous size. The height at the withers will depend on your gender. Males reach an average of 78 centimeters, while females can be between 70 and up to 73 centimeters tall. In relation to weight, it is proportional to its size and build. Males weigh from 48 to 60 kilos, while females range from 40 to 50 kilos in adulthood. Its bone structure is notable, it is a dog with thickened legs and body. Characteristics that do not at all impede their agility, dexterity and abilities for activities such as herding or hiking. Its legs are thick, with strong and sure footing. Regarding aspects of its head and face: its skull is proportionally large, subtly elongated. Its eyes are small, rounded, its nose is black and its ears, triangular and flattened, rest on its head. While his jaw appears well formed. It also has a black spot on its face that makes it distinguishable from other dogs. Its tail is usually long, not so thick and has the peculiarity of curling around the formed back of the canine, when it is in a state of alert. One aspect that differentiates the Kangal from the breeds with which it has been related is its coat. This has defining characteristics, such as its dense texture and short shape. In addition, it has two layers, in which the undercoat, which protects it from cold temperatures, is very thick; while the external one is of a permeable species. As for the color of its fur, it can be grayish or brown. While other coat tones may occur, in almost all cases they will be solid colors.

Behavior

The Kangal, because it is a flock guardian dog, the character and behavior of the Kangal is very inclined towards distrust of unknown people and suspicious attitudes. We are talking about a reserved, imposing and protective animal with its territory and those around it. Due to the purposes pursued by the creation of their breed, which was protection, these dogs have a permanently vigilant behavior, which is why as pets, they tend to be excessively overprotective . Aggression is not a common aspect in canines of this breed. However, when faced with the perception of attacks or other events that he sees as dangerous, he will not hesitate to take action. Regarding coexistence with other people, as mentioned, it is an animal that can be distrustful in the presence of strangers. That is why including socialization at the beginning of their training will make them learn how to behave in these cases. Although it can be intimidating due to its large size, it is generally shown as a friendly, affectionate, protective and loyal breed to its owners. He is a very patient dog, so he is very good at dealing with children. However, it is recommended to maintain constant surveillance if there are children at home. On the other hand, it easily adapts to the presence of other pets, even more so if it frequently lives with them. It should be noted that, due to their size, these dogs require spacious places to live, such as the countryside. In closed spaces, this breed tends to adopt negative attitudes such as excessive barking and destruction of objects. The ideal is to adopt this dog as a puppy, in this way, proper education and training will allow it to become a suitable companion.

Kangal Education

As in many other breeds, especially those of tall stature, training is essential. Because it promotes socialization with other people and other animals, but at the same time, it forges the character of the canine in different situations that arise. In the case of the Kangal, training can be very simple and even fun. If you focus on strategies such as games and rewards, this will be very positive, because the dog will not feel that rules are imposed on him in a negative way, but rather it is more of a cooperation to which he will react favorably. If traditional training is carried out, with orders and with an authoritarian attitude, the canine will become stubborn and may refuse to comply with the instructions that its owner tries to teach it. Starting the puppy's training from a very early age will allow it to more easily adopt the rules of the home, from socialization as the first point, to its behavior inside and outside the home. It must be remembered that positive reinforcement is essential in the training of dogs of any breed but, in this case, it is imperative, because it is a large dog and, if treated inappropriately, it can become aggressive and respond negatively. Not saturating the dog with consecutive commands or exceeding 20 minutes of daily training will be the most appropriate so that, progressively, the canine adapts to the instructions provided. Therefore, even if it is an intelligent and obedient dog , it is important to consider the recommended aspects, which will result in a pet balanced in its behavior and an excellent life companion.

Health & Wellness

Among other canines, the Kangal is usually one of the healthiest breeds that exist . Their life expectancy can reach up to 15 years, if they are provided with adequate care and attention. For certain, there is no list of diseases that can frequently affect this breed. On the contrary, there are few dogs of this breed that suffer a complication that puts their life at risk. However, due to their weight and size, they may be prone to obesity, which should be avoided by providing adequate nutrition and combining it with a successful exercise routine that is not excessive. Hip dysplasia is another factor that can appear in this breed, in which case activities or movements that lead to the appearance of this disease should be avoided. If we know and provide the appropriate care in a timely manner, your health will remain in optimal condition and you will be able to enjoy the company of a dog in complete well-being for many years.

Care

Although it does not require excessive care, it requires some attention from its owners that will guarantee its well-being. Some of the most important:

Feeding

Although we are referring to an animal of large size and weight, it does not mean that it needs to be fed excessively or several times a day. On the contrary, maintaining a balance in the quantity and quality of food provided to the dog will prevent the appearance of obesity. Feeding twice a day, with a dog food that gives it the necessary nutrients to strengthen its bones and body, will be the most appropriate. Additionally, complementing your training with treats, without exceeding consumption, will help keep you satisfied.

Exercises

This breed demands outdoor activities, exercises and constant walks at least three times a day. You must stay active to avoid atrophy of your bones . Additionally, exercises help you stay mentally balanced. Let's remember that Kangals need to stay outdoors, where they can run, walk and jump without any inconvenience. For this reason, life in the countryside is recommended for these big boys, and that it be closed by a large fence, because they can jump and escape.

Hygiene

Aspects such as hygiene do not pose great difficulty. Two hair brushings a week and a monthly bath (when it is really dirty) will be enough for the dog to stay clean. During the time when the Kangal sheds its coat, it is advisable to brush it more frequently to prevent it from shedding hair on furniture and other spaces in the home.

Vaccination and deworming

As with any pet, compliance with the vaccination and deworming schedules will help the Kangal stay healthy and protected against viral diseases that can affect canines.

In conclusion

When it comes to size and strength, the Kangal is a breed that combines both aspects. But it also includes protection, surveillance and loyalty to its owners. It is a recommended pet to live in the countryside or in open spaces, where it can walk or run freely. A healthy, reserved, but very cooperative dog is what you will find in this beautiful large-sized species, which will undoubtedly not stop taking care of its own. Training is essential to promote socialization and foster a balanced pet. Furthermore, the care it requires is not as demanding as that of other dogs , good nutrition, education and exercises will be enough to maintain it. It is recommended that the adoption be by someone who knows about the characteristics of the breed, in this way, they will be able to offer all the necessary care and fulfill what is required for the well-being of these canines. Also find out about…