Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonAnatolian Shepherd is originated from Turkey but Glen of Imaal Terrier is originated from Ireland. Anatolian Shepherd may grow 40 cm / 16 inches higher than Glen of Imaal Terrier. Anatolian Shepherd may weigh 52 kg / 115 pounds more than Glen of Imaal Terrier. Anatolian Shepherd may live 3 years less than Glen of Imaal Terrier. Anatolian Shepherd may have more litter size than Glen of Imaal Terrier. Anatolian Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance. But Glen of Imaal Terrier requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Terrier dog
undefined
Turkey
Ireland
Height Male:
71 - 76 cm
27 - 30 inches
30 - 36 cm
11 - 15 inches
Height Female:
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
30 - 36 cm
11 - 15 inches
Weight Male:
45 - 68 kg
99 - 150 pounds
12 - 16 kg
26 - 36 pounds
Weight Female:
41 - 59 kg
90 - 131 pounds
12 - 16 kg
26 - 36 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 11 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
3 - 5
Size:
Giant
Small
Other Names:
Karabaş (Blackhead), Anatolian Blackhead (Anadolulu Karabaş), Kangal Coban Kopegi • Perro de pastor de Anatolia • Anatolischer Hirtenhund • Chien de berger d'Anatolie • Anatolian Shepard Dog or ASD
Wicklow Terrier, Glen
Colors Available:
fawn, brindle
tan, Wheaten, blue
Coat:
Double, thick, rough
Medium length and wiry
Shedding:
Seasonal
Minimal
Temperament:
Alert, Courageous, Detached, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

anatolian shepherdUp in the mountains of central Turkey, in the region called Anatolia, a large, strong and rugged dog breed was born and is honored today on a postal stamp. This was the Anatolian Shepard – keeper of the flocks with strength, agility and speed. The Anatolian Shepard is able to pursue and catch any predator that threatens his livestock and they are his livestock. His keen sense of hearing and his excellent sight only add to his prowess as a protector.

The Anatolian is a giant dog, classified as a shepherd by the UKC – Kennel Club of the United Kingdom, while he is classified as a mountain dog or molossus by the Federation Cynologique International. When the breed was created, they were a gift to the farmers in the mountains to guard the livestock from cheetahs. This helped the cheetahs to stop attacking the livestock and prevented the farmers from wiping out the cheetah population by shooting them.

The Anatolian Shepard does have some controversy in his lineage as in some areas he is considered to be either the most closely related or the same breed as the Turkish Kangal Dog. The Anatolian is considered to have a blood line that goes back at least 6000 years.

They are direct descendants of mastiffs and mountain dogs. Yet they have the long legs, agility and aloofness of the sight hounds that are also in their bloodline. Originally called the “Coban Kopegi” or shepherd dog by their Turkish farmers, they were eventually separated into the breed called the Anatolian Shepard. When the breed was first brought into the United Kingdom the line of the Kangal dog was first. Then they were crossed with dogs called Anatolian Shepherds. Many breeders believe that the Anatolian Shepherd is a category that includes the Kangal, Coban Kopegi, Aksaray Malaklisi and the Akbash dog.

So as of January 2012, the Australian National Kennel Club no longer considers the Anatolian Shepard and the Kangal as separate breeds. The UK Kennel Club now recognizes the Kangal and the Anatolian as the same breed. For others they are still clearly separate and distinct breeds with the ASD being their own breed. In fact, the government of Turkey recognizes them as separate breeds and the Kangal Dog as the National Dog of Turkey.

The Anatolian Shepard was already in the United States in when the Anatolian Shepard Club of America came into being because of a young naval officer who had met the dogs in Turkey. They were allowed into the Miscellaneous Class of the American Kennel Club in 1996 after this naval officer had been breeding them in California for years. By 1998 they had moved to the Working Group where they reside today.

glen of imaal terrierHailing from Ireland and known also as the Wicklow Terrier or just Glen, the Glen of Imaal Terrier was used to get rid of rats, badgers and otters as well as being a good all-round farm dog.

Using his strength, he was good at digging into burrows to root out badgers, but unlike other terriers, he wouldn’t go on and on yapping around his prey. He isn’t an excessive barker.

The terrier was recognised by the Irish Kennel Club in 1934 and later by the American Kennel Club in 2004. The Canadian Kennel Club recognized Glens in 2017.

Description

anatolian shepherd puppy - descriptionComing from the mountains and guarding their flock against cheetahs has led the Anatolian Shepherd to be a muscular dog with broad heads and thick necks and sturdy, strong bodies. Their ears drop and are triangular in shape, while their muzzles are rectangular with tight lips. Their double coat is thick and warm fitting for life in the mountain regions. They do blow their coats with excessive shedding twice a year. The fur on their throat is extra thick for their protection.

Muscular, thin, their rib cage is large while their stomach is small. Their tails can be intact or docked. The Anatolian Shepherd is much like the Kuvasz or the Great Pyrenees in their size, shape and responsibilities. He is more agile and slenderer than those two dogs. Their bite is scissors or level, while their eyes are almonds, set apart in their heads.

glen of imaal terrier puppy - descriptionAn interesting fact with the Glen of Imaal Terrier is that this is a dwarf breed, being a big sized dog on short legs, with the front feet turning out.

A typical Glen of Imaal Terrier stands at roughly 30 – 36cm and weighs up to about 16kg. Another interesting aspect with this dog is that it can take up to 4 years to reach maturity.

The head of this muscular dog is large, the ears are half erect, and while the tail has always been traditionally docked, it is often left long. The double coat of the dog is soft with the undercoat but he has a wiry outercoat. The color of the coat is essentially wheaten, tan or blue. The coat doesn’t shed much but some Glen owners strip excess hair a few times during the years.

Temperament:

Glen of Imaal terriers are energetic, easygoing and they make splendid pets for any family. He is more than happy to give up lying around for games and activity just to lie at his owner’s feet. He is an intelligent dog too and even though he is somewhat stubborn, he responds well to training and socialization. In fact training and socialization is important for every dog breed to prevent negative behavior and to ensure your pet is obedient.

Characteristics

anatolian shepherd dog - characteristicsThis breed is independent, stubborn and strong. They are great protectors of their flocks and people, but they are incredibly challenging to own. They are intelligent, loyal dogs who learn quickly when they want to. They key being “when they want to”. The Anatolian Shepard was bred to be nomadic, following the herd and hunting for the herd’s predators. Microchip your ASD because they will roam if they get the chance.

If you want your Anatolian to get along with other dogs, cats or other animals, socialize them together when the ASD is a puppy. If the animal or child is part of his flock the ASD will protect them with his life. Though he is loving, quiet and calm, the Anatolian is just as demanding and dominating. Never let your Anatolian Shepherd believe that he is above the humans in the pack or you will have a major problem controlling him. He will be especially leery of strangers and will not accept your word that the stranger is part of the family. However, if she understands that humans are above her and you are the leader, she will accept any person you accept.

Even if they accept strangers, they will not allow anyone other than the family into the home when the owner is not there. This is a proud, proud dog that can be stubborn, demanding and bossy. Being such a large dog, you need to be in control. This is not a dog for everyone. Be firm, confident, be loving and consistent when training an Anatolian Shepherd. Do not offer your ASD any additional training in protection. He doesn’t need it and it could be detrimental. They will protect children, but they do not respect them. Therefore, supervise their interactions with children.

glen of imaal terrier dog - characteristicsThe Glen of Ismaal Terrier is more docile than other terrier breeds, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t feisty. He loves to play and is an adventurous dog, always on the lookout for exciting opportunities and to chase prey.

He is a good natured pet and he gets on well with adults, children and pets in the home. He can adapt well to life in the city or in the countryside so long as he is with his family members.

He isn’t a couch potato dog though, and wherever he lives, he will need a good amount of exercising. Treat him with the love and respect he craves, and you’ll have a wonderful canine companion.

Health Problems

anatolian shepherd puppies - health problemsThis is a healthy breed without a lot of the issues that plaque other giant breeds. In one recent survey the leading cause of death among the ASD is cancer and old age. Skin issues are more prevalent than dysplasia though it does occur. They have a sensitivity to anesthesia and their immune system does take longer to mature so all young ASD should be discussed with vets before any vaccinations are given. Bloat is not as common among this breed either. They should be screened for eyelid inversion or entropion. They are susceptible to Demodectic Mange or demodicosis which is caused by a mite.

glen of imaal terrier puppies - health problemsThe Glen of Imaal Terrier is a feisty, healthy breed, particularly when he gets the best food there is, then he is not likely to get ill easily.

However, just like other dogs, he can be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia. When a dog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, the socket part of the joint is poorly developed, so that is causes abnormal friction.

Inflammation and pain can be the result and your dog can become lame. Unfortunately, rapid weight gain with puppies can put more stress on the hips, and diets without the right balance of vitamins and minerals can be bad for good bone development.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

anatolian shepherd dogs - caringFeed your Anatolian Shepherd a measured amount twice a day and keep him from becoming overweight. It is recommended that you feed her from 4-6 cups of dry, high quality food for the entire day. The more active your dog is, the more she will need to eat. Using treats in training is appropriate but don’t give her too many as these will add to the waist line.

Health issues

As mentioned previously this is a very healthy breed especially when compared with other giant and/or mountain dog breeds. However, they are susceptible but not prone to:

Hip Dysplasia

Should be tested for this condition in which the bones don’t fit well into the joint. Elbow Dysplasia – the same as above except it is the arm bone does not fit well into the joint. Both these conditions can cause arthritis or lameness.

Demodectic Mange

Caused by mites and a weakened immune system it can result in patches of scaly, red skin and hair loss. A generalized version can cover the entire body and can be fatal.

Hypothyroidism

This can result if obesity, hair loss, epilepsy, lethargy and other skin condition. It is easily treatable.

Entropion

Mentioned previously it causes the eyelid to roll inward and requires surgery.

Exercise and games

Your Anatolian Shepherd does not need a lot of exercise despite his size. A large yard with a good fence will do for him as long as he gets a walk daily. If they can run free in a large yard they will be happy. If not, you will need to take them to a dog park, preferable when other dogs are NOT present. You can’t assume he will be ok with other dogs. Never walk them off leash as they love to wander. They need a job to do.

glen of imaal terrier dogs - caringCaring for a Glen of Imaal isn’t going to be a huge job. This is what makes him such a wonderful pet as he is a straightforward pet, requiring little more than a brush to avoid the hair matting.

Check his ears, teeth and nails from time to time to ensure he is always in tip top condition.

Diet:

If you intend making use of the convenience of commercially manufactured dog foods, the top quality one will provide you with balanced nutrition for your Glen and you can mix in some cooked brown rice, vegetables and chicken from time to time.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a small-breed dog and, he should be offered dog food that has been specially formulated for small, energetic dog breeds. You can also add in a little bit of raw meat into his kibble as a treat as this is important for keeping him free of skin allergies.

Make sure he always has a bowl of fresh, cool drinking water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Anatolian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Anatolian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Anatolian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Anatolian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Anatolian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Anatolian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Anatolian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Anatolian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Anatolian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Anatolian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Anatolian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Anatolian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Anatolian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Anatolian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Anatolian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Anatolian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Anatolian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Anatolian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Anatolian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Anatolian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Anatolian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Anatolian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Anatolian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Anatolian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison