Akbash
Also known as Akbaş · Akbash Dog · Akbaş Çoban Köpeği
Turkey, Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Size
- Giant
- Height
- 65–85 cm
- Weight
- 35–65 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 yrs
- Watchful
- Independent
- Protective
- Calm
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Akbash is a large white flock guardian from western Turkey. Its name means 'white head', setting it apart from dark-masked guardian dogs. It is tall and athletic rather than bulky, with a medium or long double coat and a well-feathered tail. Shepherds value the white coat because it helps them tell the dog from a wolf at night.
Size
- Size
- Giant
- Height at shoulder
- 65–85 cm
- Adult weight
- 35–65 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
10–12 years
Most Akbashs live 10–12 years. Like other giant dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 6, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is a guardian, not a herder: it lives with livestock and protects them from predators. Akbash dogs tend to be calm, watchful and independent, gentle with their charges and family, but quick to react to threats and cautious with strangers.
- Watchful
- Independent
- Protective
- Calm
Food
For a typical 50 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 2,110 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 2 L–3 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Bloat is a risk in this breed: split food into smaller meals, avoid vigorous exercise for an hour either side of eating, and know the signs.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
30–60 min a dayIt needs a large, secure area to patrol and daily walks, but not intense exercise. It is most content with a job, such as guarding stock.
Grooming & shedding
The double coat needs weekly brushing, more during seasonal moults. Check the feathering for burrs if it lives outdoors.
Health
An Akbash needs an experienced owner, very secure fencing and early socialisation. It is an independent thinker and will not obey commands like a herding dog. In North America it is used on ranches to protect sheep from predators. Keep puppies lean as they grow and see a vet for limping.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health research has been published
- Hip dysplasia is a general concern in large guardian breeds
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
Not every Akbash is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The Akbash has long protected flocks in western Anatolia, especially in Afyon, Ankara, Eskişehir and Manisa provinces. The Turkish Standards Institution published a standard in 2002 and the Ministry of Agriculture recognised it as a native breed in 2006. Dogs exported to North America since the 1970s became working ranch guardians there.
- Country of origin
- Turkey
- Type
- Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the UKC and the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Akbash right for you?
Could suit
- Calmer households and owners who prefer gentle walks
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
- Space, food and vet costs are a concern — giant breeds need more of all three
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Akbash FAQ
How big does a Akbash get?
Adult Akbashs typically stand about 65–85 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 35–65 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Akbashs live?
Typically 10–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Akbash need?
As a guide, around 30–60 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Akbash need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Akbashs easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Akbashs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Akbashs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Akbash live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Akbashs have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health research has been published, hip dysplasia is a general concern in large guardian breeds. Not every Akbash is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.