| Height | 29 inches (male), 27 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 110-150 pounds (male), 80-120 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 11–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Reserved / Independent / Loyal [1] |
| AKC group | Working Group [1] |
| Origin | Turkey [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 88 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Because he only needs a moderate amount of exercise, an Anatolian will be happy with time in a yard'¿be sure it has a tall, strong fence and a locked gate'¿and a long walk once or twice a day. Remember, though, that an Anatolian must be kept on leash whenever he is taken out of the home. As one breeder says, "Don't assume that your dogs will be reliable off leash. [1]
Grooming
Bred to work outdoors, the Anatolian has a thick undercoat that protects him from the elements. Some Anatolians have a long outer coat, but on most it is quite short, and a quick brushing once a week will keep it looking good. Keep in mind, though, that the Anatolian sheds his undercoat twice a year. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Anatolian is overall a healthy and hardy breed. Hip dysplasia is not common in Anatolians, nor is bloat, a life-threatening twisting and inversion of the stomach. Owners should know the symptoms of bloat, however, so as to act quickly should it occur. The breed can be sensitive to anesthesia, and owners should ensure that their vet is aware of this before any procedures. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a giant dog (median $607) | $350 – $1,373 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Anatolian Shepherd Dog in 1996. [1]
- It ranked No. 88 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 92 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Anatolian.” [1]
- The AKC lists Turkey as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
Common questions
How long do Anatolian Shepherd Dogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 11-13 years.
How big does a Anatolian Shepherd Dog get?
AKC breed information lists height 29 inches (male), 27 inches (female) and weight 110-150 pounds (male), 80-120 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Anatolian Shepherd Dog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For giant dogs like the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, a typical vet bill runs $350 – $1,373 (median $607). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.