The Akbash dog breed is one of the most beautiful and intelligent breeds available. But before you adopt one of the adorable Akbash puppies you found at your local breeder, it is important that you are aware of what the Akbash dog needs in terms of its environment. If your home is not the proper place for an Akbash, you should consider a different type of dog.
While the Akbash can be a good companion dog for a home and family, potential owners should remember that the dog was originally bred to be a working dog. The Akbash was bred as a flock guardian, working on farms and ranches to protect the animals. This dog is instinctually used to wide open spaces and the great outdoors. He will not be happy cooped up inside a small apartment all day while his owners are at the office.
In order to provide a good home for an Akbash, you need to have plenty of space. If you live in an apartment, an Akbash is not the right dog for you. No matter how often you take him to the park, your Akbash won't be happy, healthy, or obedient because he will be miserable from the lack of space.
If you own a small home, you may be able to consider an Akbash depending on how much yard space you have. As flock protectors, Akbash dogs are used to and truly enjoy being outside in all types of weather. They have been known to prefer sitting in the pouring rain or driving snow rather than seek the shelter of the house. While this is not to say the dog does not need any shelter at all, it should be considered that the dog enjoys and adapts well to all weather and loves a big backyard.
Space is important for and Akbash. Female Akbash dogs, when full grown, can reach 90-100 lbs; full-grown male Akbash dogs can get up to 120-130 lbs. While the Akbash is not considered a giant dog breed, he is one of the largest breeds and therefore needs plenty of space. A well-trained Akbash won't jump on or ruin your furniture, but his body size may be too much for a tiny living room.
The good news about an Akbash is that if you as the owner can provide him with the appropriate living space, he can be trained to be an amazing guard dog. Even though many ranchers claim that the Akbash is solely to be used as a working dog, the more submissive personality types are often quite happy as companion animals, provided that he is properly trained. He is easily housebroken and can live with children and other animals. If he is introduced to these family members as a puppy, he will treat them like members of his flock and will become an excellent guardian.
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