Find a Reputable Anatolian Shepherd Breeder | 2023

So. Where to find a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We have compiled a list of reputable breeders across the United States, so finding one within a state or two of you shouldn’t be too hard.

Anatolian Shepherd puppy in field

The Anatolian Shepherd is a large and powerful breed originally from Turkey. Bred as a livestock guardian dog, Anatolian Shepherds are known for their courage, loyalty, and protective nature.

These dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand over 2 feet tall at the shoulder. They have a thick, dense coat that can be fawn, brindle, or white. Additionally, The breed requires a lot of exercise and a firm but gentle hand in training. According to the American Kennel Club, the Anatolian Shepherd is a “working dog” and is not recommended for first-time dog owners.

If you’re interested in adding an Anatolian Shepherd to your family, it’s important to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. With so many breeders, knowing where to start your search can be overwhelming.

In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and resources on where to find reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeders. We’ll also discuss the importance of health testing and temperament when looking for a breeder.

By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and resources to find a healthy and happy Anatolian Shepherd puppy from a responsible breeder.

Puppies from a Reputable Anatolian Shepherd Breeder: Price Tag

Anatolian Shepherd infographic

A Reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder will tend to charge a little more, but you will want to pay that premium! It might save you money in health bills in the long run.

The price of an Anatolian Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder can vary depending on a few factors, including the breeder’s location, the pedigree of the puppy’s parents, and whether the puppy has undergone any health screenings has been vaccinated.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 for an Anatolian Shepherd puppy from a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder. However, some breeders may charge more for puppies from champion bloodlines or have undergone extensive health screenings.

It’s important to do your research and find a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder who takes the health and well-being of their puppies seriously. Look for transparent breeders about their breeding practices, provide health certifications for their puppies and their parents, and have a good reputation within the Anatolian Shepherd community.

While purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder may seem expensive, it can save you money in the long run by reducing the likelihood of health issues or behavior problems that may arise from poorly bred dogs.

It’s also important to budget for additional expenses such as food, toys, veterinary care, and training classes. Owning an Anatolian Shepherd requires a significant commitment of time, energy, and resources, but with proper care and training, they can make loyal and devoted companions.

Evaluating Reputable Anatolian Shepherd Breeders: Health and Temperament Standards

Anatolian shepherd puppy

If you’re looking for a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder, evaluating their health and temperament standards is important. A responsible breeder should prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and provide documentation of health tests performed on the parents.

Common health issues in Anatolian Shepherds include hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid disease, and eye problems. A reputable breeder will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs to help ensure that these conditions are not passed on to their puppies.

Additionally, it’s important to evaluate the temperament of the breeder’s dogs. Anatolian Shepherds can be independent and stubborn, but they should also be loyal and protective of their family.

A responsible breeder will socialize their puppies early to ensure that they grow up to be well-adjusted and confident dogs. They should be able to provide you with information on the parents’ temperament and any previous litters.

When searching for a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder, don’t hesitate to ask questions and request documentation. A good breeder will be happy to provide you with information on their breeding program and the health and temperament of their dogs.

Be cautious of breeders who do not allow you to meet the parents or are unwilling to answer your questions. A reputable breeder will be invested in finding the right home for their puppies and ensuring that you are a good fit for the breed.

The following list of breeders are all part of the Anatolian Shepherd Club of America (ASDCA) and have signed their code of ethics and have gone through an extensive application process.

Not all breeders have websites, so if there is one near you and you need to get ahold of them, please reach out by phone or email.

Where to Find Reputable Anatolian Shepherd Breeders

Arizona

North Mountain Ranch:

Point of Contact Name: Kim Deihl

Address: 6351 N. Mountain View Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Phone: 602-508-7115

E-mail: northmountainranch@gmail.com

Website: North Mountain Ranch

Montaire:

Point of Contact Name: Darci Lang

Address: 1466 W. Montebella Drive Tucson, AZ 85704

Phone: 520-219-9071

E-mail: lpups@earthlink.net

Website: Montaire Kennels

About:

They are a small show/hobby breeder of three wonderful breeds of dog in Tucson, Arizona.  The beautiful and devoted livestock guarding breed, the Anatolian Shepherd.  The loyal, athletic, and active Cardigan Welsh Corgi.

All of their dogs are, first and foremost, their pets. Their puppies are raised in our home, and exposed, not only to regular household activities but Early Neurological Stimulation, to ensure puppies have the best start in life. They regularly show our dogs in AKC shows, having achieved nationally ranked Grand Champions in all breeds, including Westminster invites.

They are members of:

• Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America

• Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America

• Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club Internationa

California

Timaru, reg.

Point of Contact Name: Lesley and John Brabyn

Address: PO Box 266 Bodega, CA 94922

Phone: 707-876-1808

E-mail: timaru@earthlink.net

Website: Salmon Creek Ranch

About: Their isolated ranch is surrounded by coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, badgers, foxes, and mountain lions. They needed a versatile, athletic, and adaptable predator control system to protect birds, to goats, to them

They found the solution in the Anatolian Shepherd, an ancient breed from Turkey. These magnificent creatures have lived with their flocks under the most rigorous of conditions for thousands of years and are one of the oldest and most natural methods of predator control.

They also believe it possible, with selective breeding and rigorous selection, to produce dogs that are healthy, sound, well-tempered, and adhere to the Standard of the Breed: Anatolians who look like Anatolians and can do the job they were bred to do. Interestingly, while the neighboring ranches have all lost large numbers of hoofstock to predation, we’ve been most fortunate. Coincidence?

Gerlach Ranch

Point of Contact Name: Kathy Gerlach

Address: 1094 First Ave. Napa, CA 94558

Phone: Cell: 707-294-8196 – Land: 707-294-7529

E-mail: gerlachranch@aol.com

Fiddler’s Dream Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: Rachel Amov

Address: 6647 Greem Gables Ave. San Diego CA 92119

Phone: 619-840-0935

E-mail: rachelamov@aol.com

Las Sirenas

Point of Contact Name: Mollu Akin and Allan Childens

Address: PO Box 531 Valley Center, CA 92082

Phone: 858-336-2805

E-mail: mollynui@gmail.com

Karaboudjan Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: Janet Dotson

Address: Valley Center, CA 92082

Phone: 760-575-4273

E-mail: karaboudjananatolians@gmail.com

Website: Karaboudjan Anatolians

About:

Karaboudjan Anatolians is a small kennel located in sunny California.  Their dogs live with them as family members and have free run of their country property, where they protect our small herd of livestock.  They occasionally breed a litter of puppies and enjoy raising them to be healthy, happy, and well-adjusted dogs.

While usually busy protecting the property and livestock, dogs come into the house to eat and hang out with the family. These dogs must be easily handled for Vet checks, baths, nail trims, etc.  With a proper introduction, all our dogs are polite and social.

As breeders, they feel that the more information a prospective purchaser can gain before getting the puppy, the more aware they will be of the responsibilities of owning an Anatolian Shepherd Dog puppy.

Connecticut

Eden

Point of Contact Name: Celeste Johnson

Address: 59 Mill Stream Rd. Stamford CT 06903

Phone: 203-223-2461

E-mail: celestemary@proton.me

Florida

Tamoora Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: Kathleen Mayer

Address: 6410 SW 170th st. Archer, FL 32618

Phone: 740-536-7161

E-mail: tamoora@aol.com

Website: Tamoora Anatolians

About: Breeder has the distinction of AKC Breeder of Merit

Carpe Diem Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: Laure Edstrom-Smith and James D. Smith

Address: 539 NW Ridge Glen Rd. Wellborne, FL 32094

Phone: 760-575-4273

E-mail: stimagnolia@outlook.com

Website: Carpe Diem Anatolians

About: This breeder also has the distinction of Breeder of Merit from the AKC.

Having grown up with dogs, Laura Edstrom-Smith purchased her first Anatolian Shepherd, named Early Warning in 1990.  The Anatolian Shepherd’s unique abilities as a livestock guardian whose strong maternal instincts make it an excellent companion dog are the characteristics which drew her attention to the breed. 

Early Warning soon became the love of Laura’s life.  Her life-changing journey with the Anatolian Shepherd Dog had begun.  Laura joined the national parent club, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America (ASDCA), in 1990.  Over the years, Laura has owned several male and female Anatolian Shepherd

Georgia

Beaver Creek Anatolian Shepherds

Point of Contact Name: Patrea Pabst

Address: 2966 Hartwell HWY NW. Dewy Rose, GA 30634

Phone: 404-217-8471

E-mail: aepied@aol.com

Website: (FB) Beaver Creek Anatolian Shepherds

Aslan’s Prise Kennels

Point of Contact Name: Michele Iberri

Address: 65 Stone Creek Drive. Dallas, GA 30157

Phone: 404-363-0251

E-mail: michele.iberri@gmail.com

Michigan

Mythos Anatolian Shepherds

Point of Contact Name: Meghan Duck and Nathan Harpe

Address: 2811 Doane Highway Charlotte, MI 48813

Phone: 925-470-7220

E-mail: mythosanatolians@gmail.com

Website: Mythos Anatolian Shepherds

About: Their Anatolian Shepherds are selected based on:

  • OFA/PennHip clearances
  • Correct working temperament
  • Correct structure

While some breeders prioritize structure over correct working temperament, they feel that a working dog is more important to the breed than eliminating personal cosmetic faults. Additionally, all of their dogs are raised from a young age with livestock and taught appropriate interactions with their livestock.

They whelp indoors and use Early Neurological Stimulation, Puppy Culture, and Avidog puppy-raising techniques in order to produce stable, confident, well-rounded puppies.

Montana

Apex Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: Natalie Thurman

Address: PO Box 858 Frenchtown, MT 59834

Phone: 406-530-9022

E-mail: apexanatolians@gmail.com

Website: Apex Anatolians

About: Apex Anatolians is a family of dogs over a decade in the making located in Western Montana, working to protect a mixed herd of livestock and a small family from large apex predators daily. The dogs there function in pack sets to live and work together with Katahdin sheep, Kunekune pigs, a free-ranging chicken flock, multiple barn cats, a couple of cows, and farm kids.

The mission at Apex Anatolians is to preserve the purpose-driven temperament and health of the Anatolian Shepherd Dog to support families and herds alike.

Their puppies/dogs are evaluated on multiple criteria before going home with their families or being considered for breeding here. They view each dog’s evaluation holistically because owning a beautiful dog won’t compensate for a poor temperament or failed health over their lifetime!

New Mexico

Salad Fork Ranch

Point of Contact Name: Carol Oleksak

Address: PO Box 142 San Ysirdo, NM 87053

Phone: 505-867-4426

E-mail: saladforkranch@msn.com

Oklahoma

Autumn Acres Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: David and Lori Hardin

Address: 472450 E. 790 Road. Stilwell, OK 74960

Phone: Cell: 918-507-2811 – Land: 918-507-2812

E-mail: hardin.agrienvmgmt@gmail.com

South Carolina

Full Circle Farm

Point of Contact Name: Nancy Wargas

Address: 298 Barker Rd. Simpsonville, SC 29680

Phone: Cell: 910-258-2972 – Land: 864-399-6254

E-Mail: fullcirclefarm@bellsouth.net

Website: Full Circle Farm

About: Full Circle Farms has 6 Generations of experience and breed for overall temperament and excellence.

Tennessee

Whiteknight Guardians

Point of Contact Name: Leslie and Jessica Roden

Address: 308 Leatherwood Hollow Rd. New Tazwell, TN 37825

Phone: 423-526-2093

E-Mail: dozergirl12@hotmail.com

Website: Whiteknight Guardians

About:

WhiteKnight Guardians are Premium AKC registered show and breeding quality Anatolian Shepherd Livestock guardian dogs (also known as Anatolians, ASD’s, and LGD’s).  Their mission is to produce superior quality dogs for the purpose of guarding all types of livestock including sheep, goats, chickens, alpacas, horses, as well as families. 

They focus on producing the type of dogs which will be used to improve the quality of available Anatolian Shepherd Dogs in America. Great care has been taken to ensure the mental and structural soundness of each dog we breed.    

Texas

Lucky Hit

Point of Contact Name: Erick Conard

Address: 16120 Lucky Road, Leander, TX 78641

Phone: 512-659-5189

E-Mail: erickcon@icloud.com

Website: Lucky Hit

About:

Erick’s first priority in breeding Anatolians is to breed for pups with Superior Working Ability with True Flock Guardian Temperament, Character, and Demeanor. Because he places working ability as his first priority, his pups are best suited for individuals seeking an Anatolian who wants their dog’s primary duty to be a flock guardian.

As a bonus (and because he also selects superior conformation) he expects his pups to have excellent conformation and superior working ability! He has found that correct working temperament can result in Anatolians doing well as excellent show dogs and/or outstanding companion guardians.

Edgebrool Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: Dustin and Sayer Townsend

Address: 3501 Jackson Rd. Montgomery, TX 77316

Phone: 281-389-2556

E-Mail: edgebrooktx@gmail.com

Virginia

Birinci Anatolians

Point of Contact Name: Catherine Emanuel and Edward Collins

Address: 3036 Berkmar Dr., Charlottesville, VA 22901

Phone: Cell: 434-960-5213 Land:

E-Mail: birinci@centurylink.net

Website: (FB) Birinci Anatolians

About: Birinci Anatolians is comprised of a family of dog lovers. Louise Emanuel was introduced to the breed while living in Turkey and working for USAID. It was there that she fell in love with Turkish customs and culture.

When returning to the States she mentioned the Turkish dogs many times. Eventually, she obtained Angie (BA Angora). While running one of the most successful three-day stables in MD, her foals could be born outside and move with ease. Louise joined the Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America (ASDCA) in 1983 and served on the BOD for several years.

After the death of her husband (Senator Meyer M. Emanuel Jr.) in 1987, she moved her farm and her family for a new start in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She has worked in graphic design and is an accomplished entrepreneur. She has been an owner/operator of a local boarding and grooming kennel in Charlottesville, VA since 1992.

Cedar Rise

Point of Contact Name: Leslie Ayers and John Gunner

Address: 323 Old Farm Rd. Lexington, VA 24450

Phone: 540-460-7469

E-Mail: forswimming@gmail.com

Website: Cedar Rise

About: Nestled in neat historic Lexington, VA, this is a great option to make a day out of visiting your future pup and taking in Lexington!

H&L Acres

Point of Contact Name: Lisa Norman

Address: 4194 Lee Ct. Locust Grove, VA 22508

Phone: 571-469-9028

E-Mail: handlacres@gmail.com

Questions to Ask The Breeder

Two Anatolian Shepherd puppies

1. Are the sire and dam registered with the ANATOLIAN SHEPHERD DOG CLUB OF AMERICA, INC., or AKC? Is the litter registered with the ANATOLIAN SHEPHERD DOG CLUB OF AMERICA, INC. or AKC? (Hint: All of the previous breeders should answer yes, but still ask in case there has been a change in status.)


2. How many years have you been involved in the breed, and can you provide references from previous buyers?


3. What are the special characteristics of this breed attracted you to want to become an owner/breeder of Anatolian Shepherds?


4. How many litters do you breed a year?


5. What are some of the drawbacks to owning this breed? (Don’t believe them if they answer, “none.”)


6. Can you tell me about any inherited/genetic health problems with this breed? Other health considerations?


7. What can you tell me about the history/background/function of this breed?


8. Are the sire and dam x-rayed and certified clear of hip dysplasia? Will you provide copies of the O.F.A. certificates of the sire and dam?


9. Are the sire and dam free of any hereditary diseases/defects?


10. Do the sire and dam have the temperament and personality I desire in my pup?


11. Will you provide a copy of the prospective puppy’s pedigree before I purchase?


12. Do you offer a guarantee? Written contract? (Remember, even the best intentions do not always produce 100 percent guaranteed results. Defects sometimes occur, even with healthy parents and proper care. All these things should be taken into consideration before the purchase, with an amicable WRITTEN CONTRACT reached for the “what if.”)


13. Can I see the sire and dam and the litter? If it is impossible to travel to see the sire, dam, and litter, can you send photos? Videotape? Can I visit Anatolian Shepherd Dogs in my area to see the breed firsthand?


14. Have the puppies been temperament tested, and if so, what were the results?


15. What is the price of the puppies? (Price varies, but usually is between $1500-$3500 depending on the parents’ quality and the breeder’s litter and reputation). The ASDCA will provide a Breeder’s List on request

Preparing for Your Anatolian Shepherd Puppy: Exercise and Training Needs

Anatolian shepherd puppy

Exercise Needs:

Anatolian Shepherds are active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy. As puppies, they should get short periods of exercise throughout the day, gradually increasing as they grow older. You can start with short walks, play sessions, or gentle hikes on easy terrain.

As they grow, you can increase the duration and intensity of their exercise. It’s important to note that Anatolian Shepherds are not built for intense exercise such as long-distance running or agility training until they are at least 18 months old, as their bones and joints are still developing.

Training Needs

Anatolian Shepherds are intelligent dogs that can be independent and stubborn sometimes, so it’s important to start training early and be consistent with your commands. Positive reinforcement training methods work best, such as using treats or praise when your puppy performs a desired behavior.

Socialization is also essential for Anatolian Shepherd puppies. As guard dogs, they can be wary of strangers and other dogs. Early and positive socialization can help prevent behavior problems and help them develop into well-adjusted adults. It’s also important to teach them basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, and come when called.

In summary, providing adequate exercise and training for your Anatolian Shepherd puppy is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Start with short periods of exercise and positive reinforcement training methods.

Socialization is also important for their development. Your Anatolian Shepherd puppy can grow into a well-behaved and loyal companion with patience and consistency.

FAQ

What is the average price for an Anatolian Shepherd?

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 for an Anatolian Shepherd puppy from a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder. However, some breeders may charge more for puppies from champion bloodlines or have undergone extensive health screenings.

When do Anatolian Shepherds stop growing

Anatolian Shepherds are a large breed of dog that can take longer to mature than smaller breeds fully. On average, Anatolian Shepherds reach their full height between 12-18 months of age, but they may continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are 2-3 years old.

How long do Anatolian Shepherds live?

Anatolian Shepherds are generally a healthy and long-lived dog breed, with a lifespan of around 11-13 years. However, like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions.

Are Anatolian shepherds hard to train?

Anatolian Shepherds are an intelligent and independent breed of dog, which can sometimes make them challenging to train for inexperienced owners or those who do not have experience with working breeds.
These dogs are known for being strong-willed and may be less responsive to traditional obedience training methods that rely on force or punishment. Positive reinforcement methods that reward desired behaviors with treats, praise, or playtime can be more effective in training an Anatolian Shepherd.

How strong is an Anatolian Shepherds’ bite?

According to a study published in the Journal of Anatomy, the average biting force of an Anatolian Shepherd is around 556 pounds per square inch (PSI). This resembles other large breeds, such as the German Shepherd and Rottweiler.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder can be a challenging process. (but a lot easier after reading this article!), but it’s crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of your future puppy.

By researching, asking the right questions, and being patient, you can find a reputable Anatolian Shepherd breeder who is transparent, knowledgeable, and committed to producing healthy and well-socialized puppies. With the right breeder, you can bring home an Anatolian Shepherd puppy that will bring you years of joy, companionship, and protection.

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