Tarsus Çatalburun
Also known as Turkish Pointer · Çatalburun
Turkey, Spaniels and gundogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 48–50 cm
- Weight
- 20–25 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Keen-nosed
- Calm at home
- Intelligent
- Biddable
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Tarsus Çatalburun is a rare Turkish pointing dog from around Tarsus on the Mediterranean coast, best known for its split, or 'forked', nose. It is a medium-to-large, athletic dog with a deep chest, drop ears and a short coat, usually brown or brown and white. Only a few hundred are thought to exist.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 48–50 cm
- Adult weight
- 20–25 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–14 years
Most Tarsus Çatalburuns live 12–14 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, 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
These dogs are clever and willing to work with people, settled and quiet at home but full of drive in the field. Their keen nose and natural pointing instinct show from a very young age.
- Keen-nosed
- Calm at home
- Intelligent
- Biddable
Food
For a typical 22.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,160 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 900 ml–1.4 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- 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
90–120 min a dayAn active gundog that needs at least an hour or two of exercise a day, with scent work or retrieving games to keep its mind busy.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat needs only a weekly brush. Check the ears regularly, as drop ears can trap moisture.
Health
Some have been trained for detection and search-and-rescue work, showing how trainable they can be. Outside Turkey the breed is almost unknown. The split nose is a breed feature and not, in itself, a health problem.
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Allergies
- Hypothyroidism
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- Thyroid testing
Not every Tarsus Çatalburun is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The breed has been used for centuries to hunt partridge and other upland birds around Tarsus. Because it shares the split nose with Spain's Pachón Navarro, some suggest the two have a common origin, possibly dating to the period when both regions lay within the same Islamic caliphates, though which came first is disputed.
- Country of origin
- Turkey
- Type
- Spaniels and gundogs
- Recognition
- Not recognised by any major kennel club, including the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Tarsus Çatalburun right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 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.
Tarsus Çatalburun FAQ
How big does a Tarsus Çatalburun get?
Adult Tarsus Çatalburuns typically stand about 48–50 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–25 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Tarsus Çatalburuns live?
Typically 12–14 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 Tarsus Çatalburun need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Tarsus Çatalburun need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Tarsus Çatalburuns easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Tarsus Çatalburuns shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Tarsus Çatalburuns good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Tarsus Çatalburun live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Tarsus Çatalburuns have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, allergies, hypothyroidism. Not every Tarsus Çatalburun 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.