General Features: Kangal is one of the most well-known livestock guardian dogs in Turkey. A Kangal can chase a wolf for miles to repel the attack and neutralize it, which is a distinguishing characteristic of Kangal’s, known worldwide and makes them preferred for livestock protection. Kangal’s are vigilant, always alert, and possess high intelligence, courage, and power to secure the herd of livestock against predators. Kangal’s mainly come from the sub-province Kangal, located in Sivas, Turkey; found primarily on the plateaus and in the northern part of Central Anatolia to Marmara region. In addition, Kangal’s are family dogs in many countries worldwide due to their kind, tolerant attitudes towards children and their territorial nature. Kangal’s are intuitive and are suitable for working all day in the fields. They are not to be kept on a chain or work under the command of humans since they’re free-spirited dogs.

GENERAL APPEARANCE

BONE STRUCTURE

TAIL

The spiral tail is common. 

SIZE

Shoulder length for adult males is between 78-80 cm, and weight is 55-65 kg. Shoulder length of 85 cm and weight of 75 kg are also seen.

As for adult females, the shoulder length is between 65-75 cm, and the weight is 50 -60 kg. The shoulder length of 80 cm and weight of 65 kg is also seen for females.

FACE/HEAD

The face is square shaped when viewed from the front, and it gets thinner towards the tip of the nose. The stop on the face is slightly apparent.

EYES

Eyes are slanted and have distinctive eye-sockets. Eye color ranges from amber (honey-colored) to black. Kangals usually have kohl eyes and an arc-shaped line on eyebrows that give them a vivid and royal look.

NOSE

The tip of the nose is black.

JAWS/LIPS

The cheeks dangle down till the upper lip covers the lower lip.

NECK/SKYLINE

The posture of the neck and skyline intersects with a 45-degree angle.

COAT

The coat is attached to the body firmly and has a bilayer structure—the hair length changes depending on the seasons. 

COLOR

Hair color varies from light cream to dark steel-gray and tones of red and black and brindle pattern.