The Turkish Akbaş (Akbash) Shepherd Dog

Akbash (ack bash or ahk bash) is a Turkish word meaning white head. When we say white we mean milk white. The Akbaş Dog is a milk white livestock guardian breed native to the plains and mountains of the region of Turkey between Eskişehir, Afyon, Konya, the Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü) and Ankara, which is its main extent. Although the origins of the breed are unclear, it is known to be an ancient purebred dog. In Turkey Akbaş Dogs are owned and bred by villagers and shepherds to protect their flocks from wolves and other predators.

Purebred Akbaş Dogs are free of pinto, skewbald, and brindle markings or other indeterminate colours. A cream colour from the ears to the rump is acceptable. Compared with the fawn coated Kangal (Karabash) it has a more refined appearance with a pointed muzzle, and a softer coat with long and medium hair. Its weight and height at the withers are less than that of the Kangal (Karabash) but it is just as brave and faithful, even more so in fighting with predators. Its temperament is typified by a calm, quiet, alert, courageous independence coupled with a natural protective instinct. It is very agile. Akbaş Dogs can jump over fences and walls as high as a man. Possessing great stamina, they are also capable of running at great speed.