Turkish Boz Shepherd - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin
Most breeds we know today are result of deliberate breeding process made by people, but the Boz Shepherd is a landrace, which means, that they evolved naturally as a result of natural forces. The Turkish Boz Shepherd is one of the Turkish Shepherd breeds, more specifically, it evolved from the Yörük variant of Turkish Shepherd and the Turkish Boz Shepherd is one of the official regional variant of Yörük Turkish Shepherd from the Northern Urfa Mountains of Southern Turkey.
2) Other Turkish Shepherds
On the first sight, you might confuse the Boz Shepherd with other Turkish Shepherd, such as Akbash, Kangal or Aksaray Malaklisi, but every Turkish Shepherd breed is slightly different. For example the Boz Shepherd is known to have some of the Tazi blood. Tazi is a sighthound similar to greyhound and thanks to its blood, the Boz Shepherd has better speed, agility and endurance. In comparsion to Kangal, the Boz is larger, squarer and heavier. In comparsion to Aksaray Malaklisi, the Boz Shepherd is more athletic, agile and much faster.
3) Livestock guardian
Ancient nomadic people needed a strong and endurant dog that would protect their livestock. No wonder, that they chosen the Boz Shepherd, because this dog is strong, courageous and brave so it can guard the livestock from very dangerous predators such as wolves, but this is also very endurant and athletic to be able to fast travel and cover large distances quickly. This is also very independent dog and good problem solver and they can guard the livestock on their own.
4) Companion
The Boz Shepherd is very adaptable breed that is extremely devoted and loyal to its master. Because of that, they can happily live just as companion dog and not as livestock protector, but they need plenty of exercise, so they stay healthy and happy. They will love to go on long hikes or jogs, but their great athleticism makes them also amazing partners for biking. These dogs create very strong bond with its family and they want to be part of your daily activities. On the other hand, because of their natural protective instinct, they are alert and suspicious towards unknown people or other animals and it will take a while until a complete stranger will gain a trust of this dog.
5) Training
Its important to mention, that this is not a dog for novices or unexperienced owners. If you want to have this dog as a companion, than early extensive socialization is essential. If you fail the socialization with dog this powerful and with such a strong protective instinct, you can have a lot of troubles. On the other hand, with good patient, consistent and firm training, these dogs are amazing. But as i said, the Boz Shepherd is not for everyone, they definitely need experienced handler.
6) Size
The Boz Shepherd is impressive giant dog breed, with average height between 28-37 inches, which is 71-93 cm and weight is usually between 100-200 pounds, which is 45-90 kg. Its important to mention, that some male individuals can be much larger than that. Females are typically slightly smaller than males.
7) Adaptable breed
Great fact about this breed is, that is is extremely adaptable and tough dog breed. They can withstand very hot weather. And even though they do not have very long coat, they can also withstand extreme cold temperatures as well. They will also adapt to living conditions and they can live indoors or outdoors. But especially if they live indoors, they should either have access to a fenced yard or you must give them enough outdoor exercise.
8) Color
The Boz Shepherd has a short to medium long coat which is, protecting it from harsh climates. The coat change its density, when in winter its very dense and in summer the coat is less dense and shorter. The most common colors are fawn and cream, but this dog can be in many more colors, including white, red, grey or very rare black and brindle. Typically, these dogs have black mask and ears, but it is not mandatory.
9) Maintenance
The Boz Shepherd maintenance is not hard. Their shorter coat does shed, more heavily seasonally, so you can shed it, which will minimize the shedding. These dogs also do not need much bathing, only when its really necessary. Just like with all dogs, you should regularly check their eyes, ears, teeth and nails and clip them or clean them if needed.
10) Health
As i already mentioned in the beggining of the video, this is landrace dog evolved naturally and those dogs are typically healthies than dogs developed by breeding. And indeed, the Boz Shepherd has, for a giant dog, amazing lifespan between 10 up to 15 years! These dogs are hardy and usually very healthy. The only health concern associated with this breed is ocassional hip and elbow dysplasia.