Akbash (Turkish Shepherd) vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Akbash (Turkish Shepherd) and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Akbash (Turkish Shepherd)
Calm, courageous, and fiercely loyal, this breed is renowned for its natural protective instincts and gentle nature with family. Ideal for those seeking a steadfast guardian and affectionate companion.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Large
50–64 kg
Double coat, straight
10–12 years
40–55 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Akbash (Turkish Shepherd)
Reserved with strangers, affectionate with family
Quick to learn, independent problem solver
Moderate stamina, active when working
Not overly playful, prefers purposeful activity
Adapts to rural life, less suited for cities
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Akbash (Turkish Shepherd)
Hip dysplasia, entropion
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Akbash (Turkish Shepherd)
Not ideal
Akbash dogs need experienced handlers due to their independence and strong guarding instincts.
Poor fit
They are large, active, and require outdoor space to thrive.
Highly suitable
They enjoy physical activity and excel in energetic environments.
Use caution
Their size and guarding nature require supervision around small children.
May be territorial
They can be protective and sometimes aggressive toward unfamiliar pets.
Not recommended
They dislike being left alone and may develop behavioral issues if isolated.
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Akbash (Turkish Shepherd)
- Strong livestock guardian instincts
- Independent decision-making skills
- Loyal and protective with family
- Low grooming needs for coat type
- Adaptable to harsh weather conditions
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Akbash (Turkish Shepherd)
- Can be wary of strangers
- Needs extensive daily exercise
- May challenge authority if untrained
- Tends to roam without secure fencing
- Not well-suited for urban living
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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