Portal:Dogs/Selected breed/41
Appearance
The Kangal Dog is the national dog of Turkey. This large dog (which can often grow as large as 140 pounds, 64 kg) was originally used as a livestock guardian dog, but has been increasing in popularity as a guard dog. It has a solid, pale tan or sabled coat, and with a black mask; indeed, another name for the breed is Karabash meaning "black head". The breed is often referred to as a sheep dog, but it does not herd its charges. Instead, it is developed to live with the flock and protect it, fending off wolves and jackals.