The Kangal Dog is a breed developed for guarding livestock from Turkey.  Originally exclusively used with livestock, the Kangal Dog is now gaining popularity as a guard dog as well.
   
    Kangal Dogs stand between 28-32 inches at the withers and weighs between 90-145 pounds, with the females smaller then the males.  This is a large, muscular breed that somewhat resembles a mastiff.  They have drop ears, but in their homeland they are frequently cropped.  Their tails are either curled or carried in a sickle position.  The double coat is short and dense.  Kangal Dogs have black masks and the rest of the body is a solid color ranging from dun to gray.
   
    The history of the Kangal Dog is one that is debated, although somewhat shared with that of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog and the Akbash Dog.  Although livestock guardian dogs have been used in Turkey dating almost back to antiquity, these dogs were responsible for protecting sheep and other livestock from predators.  A task they still are used for in there homeland.  The debate comes as to whether these three are truly three separate breeds.  The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is found throughout Turkey, and is the only breed recognized internationally, although the others are recognized by some kennel clubs.  The Akbash and Kangal Dog have been kept in more isolated regions, and have separate traits, size, and distinct colorings.  To the Turks there is no debate, these are each different breeds, with the Kangal Dog prized above the others, however westerners persist to only recognize the Anatolian Shepherd Dog.
  
     Kangal Dogs are above all a working breed.  They are intelligent, and because they have been breed to be left alone and living with a herd, extremely independent.  They will bond with anything that is part of their family, other animals, men, women, and children; however they will be fiercely protective of this family towards other dogs and strangers.  If a Kangal Dog is to be kept as a companion it must be socialized at an early age and continuously throughout its life.