The Anatoli Shepherd is one of the ancient breeds being used during the Ottoman empire in Rome as herding dogs (explains why it was lording over the ducks and turtles!). Though they were popularly used in that region, this dog breed comes from Turkey. They are also used as herding and guarding dogs for flocks of sheep. The Anatoli's are peace loving and loyal pets, yet when push comes to shove are skilled attackers. These sheep herding dogs have been typified into 3: the Yoruk, Kangal and Caucasian Shepherd Dogs.

The Yoruk come in all colors and coats, The Kangal are set apart by coats and their head structure-wolf like into Whites-AkaYaka and Blacks-Kayaka. While the Caucasian are long coated ones. Generally, the Anatoli Shepherd are responsible and loyal dogs. They will stake their life for their family yet would appreciate bouts of independence.

We remember our neighbors who had an unbelievable combination of pet dogs. These dogs were all big and seeing them pace behind the gates would discourage anyone from messing around in their territory. The friendliest dog among the 3 was Spike, a reddish brown type of Collie- he may have been the tallest but was just a sweetheart. The Leader of the threesome was an able and no-nonsense version of 'Nana' in Pater Pan, a female Rottie a an inch smaller than Spike but longer and squarer. The first 2 dogs have their sizes and breed that frights people even if they don't overtly do anything. While the 3rd dog was so mysterious since it clearly is a breed yet was more independent and tasked itself to bark the other pets (non-canine) into a corner. It just so happens as i became involved in canine research, I came across the Anatoli Shepherd and finally got to know that bossy dog our neighbors had.

Just goes to show a herder is always a herder.