Kars Dog
Also known as Kars Shepherd Dog · Kars Çoban Köpeği
Turkey, Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Size
- Giant
- Height
- 66–78 cm
- Weight
- 38–55 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Protective
- Independent
- Brave
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Kars Dog is a large livestock guardian from north-eastern Turkey, named after the town and province of Kars. It usually has a long, heavy double coat in many colours, often with white markings, and looks much like the Caucasian Shepherd Dog across the border. It is a little smaller than Turkey's other flock guardians, the Kangal and the Akbash.
Size
- Size
- Giant
- Height at shoulder
- 66–78 cm
- Adult weight
- 38–55 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
10–13 years
Most Kars Dogs live 10–13 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
Kars dogs are serious, independent guardians that will stand up to wolves and even bears. They are loyal to their own family and flock but suspicious of strangers, and they make their own decisions when they sense a threat.
- Protective
- Independent
- Brave
- Hardy
Food
For a typical 46.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,990 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.9 L–2.8 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
60–90 min a dayThey need space more than intense exercise: a large, securely fenced area to patrol, plus daily walks.
Grooming & shedding
The thick coat needs brushing at least weekly and much more during the heavy seasonal moult. Short-coated dogs are easier to keep.
Health
This is a working guardian, not an easy family pet. It needs an experienced owner, thorough socialisation and secure boundaries. Some countries place rules on large guardian breeds, so check local rules. Outside Turkey the breed is rare.
The breed can be prone to
- No well-documented breed-specific health problems
- Hip and elbow dysplasia are general risks in giant breeds
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
Not every Kars Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Shepherds in the provinces of Kars, Ardahan, Erzurum, Iğdır and nearby have long used these dogs to guard flocks. The first scientific description was presented at a symposium on Turkish shepherd dogs in Konya in 1996, and the breed was registered with the Turkish Standards Institution in 2002.
- Country of origin
- Turkey
- Type
- Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Recognition
- Registered with the Turkish Standards Institution (2002) and listed as a protected native breed by Turkey's national cynology federation; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Kars Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
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 10–13 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.
Kars Dog FAQ
How big does a Kars Dog get?
Adult Kars Dogs typically stand about 66–78 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 38–55 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Kars Dogs live?
Typically 10–13 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 Kars Dog need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Kars Dog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Kars Dogs easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Kars Dogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Kars Dogs good with children?
They're often better suited to adults or older, calm children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Kars Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Kars Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to no well-documented breed-specific health problems, hip and elbow dysplasia are general risks in giant breeds. Not every Kars Dog 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.