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Kangal Shepherd

Loved by 71% of pet parents

Powerful, loyal, and protective, this breed thrives as a guardian and devoted companion. Calm and confident, it forms deep bonds with its family and territory.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

72–78 cm (male)

65–73 cm (female)

WEIGHT

50–65 kg (male)

40–55 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

11–13 years

Kangal Shepherd: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Kangal Shepherd isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Kangal Shepherd's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The Kangal Shepherd is known for its calm, protective, and loyal temperament, displaying strong devotion to its family and a natural instinct to guard livestock.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Wary with strangers, loyal to family group

Intelligence

Learns commands quickly, strong problem-solving skills

Energy Level

Moderate stamina, enjoys daily exercise

Playfulness

Not very playful, prefers working duties

Adaptability

Adapts to rural life, less suited to cities

Strengths

Exceptional livestock guardian instincts
Highly loyal to family and flock
Strong deterrent against predators
Minimal grooming requirements
Generally calm in familiar settings

Challenges

Can be aloof with strangers
Requires extensive secure space
Strong territorial and protective drive
Not suited for apartment living
Needs consistent early socialization

Protect your Kangal Shepherd

Kangal Shepherd can develop hip dysplasia and entropion. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.

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Intelligence & exercise needs

Kangal Shepherds are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Learns with consistency

Overall rating

This breed is intelligent and independent, often making decisions on its own. Early, consistent training with firm guidance is recommended, as they may be stubborn or aloof with repetitive tasks.

Trainable Tasks:

Flock guarding commands

Boundary training

Recall and response

Leash walking manners

Stranger alert signaling

Livestock herding cues

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

60–90 minutes daily

recommended per day

Kangals have high exercise needs and require ample daily physical and mental stimulation. Regular walks, secure open spaces, and purposeful activities help prevent boredom and maintain their well-being.

Recommended Activities:

Perimeter patrol walks

Large property exercise

Supervised livestock monitoring

Scent tracking games

Agility course training

Long-distance hiking

Is this breed right for you?

Kangal Shepherds are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Kangal Shepherd would fit well in your home.