The internet recently went ablaze with a photo of a lamb nuzzling a dog, expressing gratitude for being saved from a wolf attack. But what kind of canine hero could face such a formidable predator? While wolves reign supreme in the canine world, preying on most mammals except humans, they do encounter a few domestic foes. Enter the Kangal Shepherd Dog, a courageous guardian hailing from Central Asia and Turkey.
The breed featured in a viral photo shows a dog being comforted by a sheep it rescued from a wolf attack
Anatolian protectors: The kangal shepherd dog
Chances are, you haven’t encountered this magnificent breed before. Originally bred in Turkey, the Kangal Shepherd Dog is a rare sight outside its native region. In fact, Turkey has even banned exports of this powerful canine to preserve its heritage.
These majestic dogs are not your average pet. They were specifically bred to guard freely grazing herds in harsh mountainous regions, where wolves and other predators pose a constant threat. Unlike typical herding dogs, Kangals live amongst the flock, forming a deep bond with the animals they protect. This close relationship fosters a sense of trust, allowing the sheep to view the Kangal as their ultimate protector, as seen in the viral photo.
Anatolian protectors: The kangal shepherd dog
Built for battle: Strength and resilience
Standing tall at 33 inches and weighing up to 143 pounds, the Kangal Shepherd boasts a muscular physique with exceptional agility and speed. Their impressive strength translates into an unparalleled ability to defend their flock against predators, regardless of size. Additionally, Kangals hold the record for the strongest bite force among canines, clocking in at a staggering 743 PSI (pounds per square inch). This surpasses even the formidable bite of a grizzly bear (975 PSI)!
Generations of living in harsh environments have honed the Kangal’s natural resilience. They are incredibly courageous and possess an unwavering fighting spirit, willing to defend their flock even at the cost of their own lives. Their thick fur offers protection from bites and scratches, while loose skin around the neck allows them to absorb the force of an attack, minimizing injuries.
The distinctive spiked collars worn by the sheep in many photos are not merely decorative. These collars serve as vital protection against wolves and other predators who target the neck during an attack.
Built for battle: Strength and resilience
Gentle giants: Loyalty and trainability
Despite their fierce nature when protecting their charges, Kangals exhibit a surprisingly calm and predictable demeanor when off-duty. They are naturally gentle with children, displaying kindness and compassion towards those they trust. This stems from their view of humans as part of their pack, leading them to avoid aggression in our presence.
This exceptional loyalty translates into unwavering dedication towards their owners and a fierce protectiveness of everything they consider “theirs.” With proper training, Kangals demonstrate remarkable intelligence, excelling in tasks ranging from herding to guarding.
However, owning a Kangal Shepherd is not for the faint of heart. These are not lapdogs – they were bred for a specific purpose in a specific environment. Without ample exercise and opportunities to utilize their natural abilities, they can become bored and destructive.
Kangals are powerful, independent canines that can blossom into loving companions in the right hands. They are ideal for individuals living in areas with a genuine threat from predators and who are prepared to cater to their unique needs.
For those seeking a loyal guardian with an unwavering devotion to their “flock,” the Kangal Shepherd Dog might just be the perfect match. However, potential owners must be dedicated to providing the specialized care and training this extraordinary breed requires.
