Our Gentle Giant

Shep

I've written posts about our gentle giant Shep before. Shep is an Akbash which is a rare breed of LGD (livestock guardian dog) from Turkey. These dogs are different from any dog most people have ever owned...the are intelligent but also independant with STRONG maternal instincts for the animals they are guarding.

(you can look up the Akbash breed here)

Shep with Phoebe and Chelsea

He loves the chicks

Our baby is nearly 10 months old and weights around 110 lbs and has just started into another growth spurt. When this happens he eats like a horse...but normally he doesn't eat as much as you'd expect.

Adult Akbash dogs can get up to 130 lbs and up to 32" from the top of the shoulders.

Shep and his 'mum' (me)

 They are wonderful dogs especially when you live in the country. One thing that takes a bit of getting used to is that you always have to be in 'alpha' mode...in other words you have to make sure that an Akbash knows who's the boss. Even in play they love to put a leg around you or if you're on the ground they'll try and stand over you...all in play of course. You always have to remember that YOU are the 'big Kanhuna' and never forget it. They are VERY loving dogs....and our Shep is no exception

He's always playing

Olly and Shep

Anytime is play time!

Akbash are wonderful dogs and are great guard dogs for your property too. During the day he's pretty quiet and laid back but in the evening that's when you start noticing his breed. They have great hearing and are always on the alert. Shep patrols the farm and barks when he hears something out of the ordinary. I'll tell you...I wouldn't want to be a thief sneaking around and come face to face with him. He's got the most hair raising growl and bark I've ever heard!

I'm 5'5 1/2" tall

We certainly don't have to worry about prowlers with him around!

We love all our animals and it's a wonderful feeling to know that we are ALL unconditionally loved and protected by our Gentle Giant