With the busy holiday season, it’s been a few weeks since I’ve done a Meet the Giants post! Time to get back in the swing of things and get posting again. Without further introduction, the Kangal!
(Images and information provided by Emily Musgrove)
If you have/had a Kangal, please list their name, age, and gender.
Indy, pure breed female, 7 mix puppies
Are there any other names/nicknames for the Kangal? If yes, list here.
No.
What are three words you would use to describe the Kangal?
Independent, Aloof, Watchful.
What is the Kangal’s average size?
Most are between 100-150 males can be up to 200. Most of mine were 120.
What are the acceptable colors of the Kangal?
Variation of blond with black mask. Can have a saddle.
What is the average lifespan?
10-12 years
What was the Kangal bred to do?
Guard livestock in Turkey
How much exercise does the Kangal need?
1-2 mile walks are plenty
What are some common health problems?
Heart disease, joint problems, eye problems.
How much grooming does the Kangal require?
They do shed a lot of short hairs but no hair cuts or anything extra.
What do you wish people knew about the Kangal before bringing one home?
Research!!!!!! Kangals are meant to work; they are a rare breed but not for everyone. They need a job and someone to help them decide between friend or foe
Why do you love the Kangal?
They are a hoot. They tend to be very watchful with strangers but silly butts with their family. You can’t get anything past them. If they want to work they will, if not they won’t. They are very loyal and once they have a good relationship they will do everything for their family.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Kangals are one of the rarest breeds in the US. They are not allowed legally out of Turkey. Almost all of the ones found in the US trace back to a few dogs there were smuggled here in the 70’s.
Be careful when looking for one, many are inbreed or are mixes. Kangals are the original or motherland of the LGD’s. The Anatolian came from the Kangal, the Akbash indirectly too.
What a stunning, stunning breed! I had no idea that they aren’t legally allowed out of Turkey. Definitely something to be aware of if you are interested in the breed and living outside of Turkey. Thanks again to Emily!
Did you learn anything new about the Kangal?
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Always like hearing about different breeds. Not being allowed out of Turkey would explain why I’d never heard of them. Beautiful dog.
I have a 5 month old Kangal named Vixey. She is the most mellow puppy we have ever had, but still has her bursts of energy. She is also the most affectionate puppy we have ever had, and we have had multiple breeds over the years. Kangal’s are definitely rare, took me months to find a reliable breeder here in the U.S. I love it when she acts goofy because she is such a giant! you can hear her coming down the hall in the mornings because of her big paws! Her current weight is 47 lbs and when she jumps up to give me hugs her paws reach passed my chest (I am only 5’2″ so i guess its not much to brag about LOL). This breed is truly amazing, it helps to have at least a large back yard when considering the Kangal as a family pet.