The word "Kangal" identifies an ancient village of the Sivas Province in the mountains
of East Central Turkey.
Over the centuries there developed in this isolated and self sufficient area a large
Shepherd dog bred to protect the flocks and villages from wolves, bears and the
occasional human predator. The earliest description of this magnificent animal refers to
them as "Galatian dogs". This probably means the 1st Kangal dogs in the area
accompanied the Gauls as they conquered central Anatolia in the 3rd century BC.
Today Kangals are thriving as livestock and home guardians throughout Europe and
the US as well as their native Turkey,
US breeders for the most part have been judicious in selecting specimens with good
temperaments, no physical problems and the guardian instincts they are famous for. The
time honored method of bonding Kangals with livestock, etc is to raise the animal with
the subject to be guarded. Our experience has been they are quick to adapt to different
environments and new tasks. In livestock guardian situations Kangals usually manage to
protect the flocks and herds simply by their presence. When the occasional predator
confrontation is necessary Kangals acquit themselves magnificently.
The Kangal Dog Club of America is increasing in size, strength and resolve to protect
and promote this magnificent, rare breed.
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