Today we are going to take a look at the most popular Anatolian Shepherd mixes. We will give you the lowdown on general features of the Anatolian Shepherd mix, and how these differ when they are combined with various breeds. This information will help you to decide whether an Anatolian mix is the right dog for you, and if so which one to choose.
Anatolian Shepherd mixes range in size and personality. But how much Anatolian is really in each one? And what can you expect from your puppy as they grow? While the Anatolian Shepherd is one of the most intelligent dog breeds, she is also one of the most stubborn. So does crossing her with another dog make her an easier companion? And will one of these mixes be your perfect pup?
The Pure Bred Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is an ancient breed of herding dog with roots placing her as far back as 6,000 years ago during the Bronze Age. They are believed to have been developed thousands of years ago in the Asia Minor by Shepherds looking to protect their herd.
The Anatolian Shepherd is a large breed with sandy colored fur along her body, a dark muzzle and dark eyes. She has a thick, double coat; dark, floppy ears; and weighs anywhere from 80 to 150 pounds.
Personality Matters
A working dog through and through, the Anatolian Shepherd is best suited for experienced dog owners. These owners should be willing and able to work with this breed’s incredibly independent nature. This is a dog who is a free thinker. While fiercely loyal and loving to her family, she can be wary of strangers and highly protective of those she feels she must keep safe.
Large, muscular and dominant, the Anatolian Shepherd is not a dog to be taken lightly. Her protective, independent nature is instinctual and was bred into her for centuries. These traits could very well be passed on to her offspring, even if that offspring is a mix. So, do you think you have what it takes to call this breed or one of her mixes your own? Before you decide, let’s talk about Anatolian Shepherd mixes.
Anatolian Shepherd Mixes
Crossbreeding is an ancient practice. While controversial, many breeders today crossbreed dogs for a number of different reasons. In ancient times, crossbreeding was a way for people to create their idea of the perfect dog. Hunters often crossed breeds who were stealthy, had excellent noses and unique voices.
Shepherds needed dogs who were fearless, intelligent and so on. Most of the breeds we know and love today came about by way of crossbreeding. However, it takes generations and years of refining before a crossbreed becomes a purebred.
Crossbreeds Versus Purebreds
However, in modern times, crossbreeding has become somewhat of a trend, with many breeders crossing dogs to create what some call “designer dogs” or “hybrids.” And while the practice is both ancient and controversial, it could be argued that the reason for the custom has remained the same for centuries.
People want to combine the desired traits of two different dogs into one. However, this is not always a successful endeavor and can be somewhat hit or miss. As we said, it takes generations of crossbreeding and refining for a crossbreed to be accepted as a purebred.
Many breeders and dog enthusiasts may opt to cross the Anatolian Shepherd with certain breeds to enhance her intelligence. She could be less headstrong, more playful, or combine and/or change her physical appearance. Of course, there could be many other reasons as well.
It all depends on what each individual breeder wants to accomplish with that crossbreed. Now, let’s move on and learn about some of the most popular Anatolian Shepherd mixes, and why they are so unique.
Anatolian Shepherd Types
The number of Anatolian Shepherd mixes can be endless, but for now, let’s go over some of the world’s favorites. Whether it’s brains, brawn, beauty or a combination of all three, these coveted crossbreeds below combine the Anatolian Shepherd.
German Anatolian Shepherd–Anatolian Shepherd and German Shepherd Mix
Like the Anatolian Shepherd, the German Shepherd was bred to work. Highly intelligent, very energetic and incredibly loyal, there is a reason the German Shepherd is one of the world’s top choices for military and police work. Combining the German Shepherd with the Anatolian Shepherd will likely leave you with a dog who is pretty similar to each of purebred parents.
There is one exception—the German Shepherd requires a lot of exercise while the Anatolian Shepherd does not. Anatolian Shepherds are calm. Exercising their brains tends to be more of a necessity than making sure they are running up a mountainside.
Still, the good news is that both breeds will do well with one or two long walks a day and plenty of opportunity for backyard play. This means that if you plan to own a cross of these two breeds, you’ll want to make sure to stick to that regiment. You should also note that training and early socialization beginning in puppyhood is a must for this protective and intelligent crossbreed.
Anatolian Pyrenees–Anatolian Shepherd and Great Pyrenees Mix
This is an impressive mix. The Anatolian Shepherd is already a large dog, and crossing him with a Great Pyrenees will only make him larger. Majestic, beautiful and intelligent, the Great Pyrenees is a fabulous dog for those who are ready to conquer all that fur.
Luckily, crossing these two breeds will likely lead to an intelligent and calm crossbreed. The Great Pyrenees, as the Anatolian Shepherd, is protective and bred to guard his flock. Again, early socialization and obedience training will be a necessity for this hybrid to ensure he grows up well-adjusted and well-mannered.
Plush Danios–Anatolian Shepherd and Great Dane Mix
Great Danes are known as the gentle giants of the dog world. Nothing but massive lap dogs, Great Danes are beloved among many dog owners looking for a sweet, clumsy horse of a canine.
Crossing the Anatolian Shepherd and Great Dane could give you a number of different scenarios. For the most part, it is likely your crossbreed will be smart and big. And while we adore Great Danes, it should be noted that they have a very short life expectancy.
They can also be prone to a number of health issues due to their massive size. Both of these qualities could be passed on to their crossbreed offspring.
The Anatolian Shepherd and Golden Retriever Mix
The world loves Golden Retrievers, and it’s no wonder. They are intelligent, loving and make perfect family pets for those with young children. However, Golden Retrievers are extremely active and much more high-energy than an Anatolian Shepherd.
They are also much less wary of strangers and not nearly as protective. Crossing a loyal, calm and protective Anatolian Shepherd with a playful, friendly and curious Golden Retriever may not result in the perfect mix.
Your crossbreed dog’s personality, physical appearance and overall health will depend on the purebred parent breed she takes after most. For this reason, it is very important that you utilize early socialization and obedience training with this mix.
The Anatolian Shepherd and Siberian Husky Mix
Much like the Golden Retriever, the Husky is a friendly dog who knows no strangers. However, she is like the Anatolian Shepherd in the way that she was built for work. Still, she is not as much of a workaholic as the Anatolian Shepherd.
The Husky’s early days consisted of companionship as much as it did hauling heavy loads and protecting family members. Huskies are better listeners than the Anatolian Shepherd. They are also more eager to please their people. Huskies require much more exercise and enjoy running.
Crossing this breed will likely lead to an intelligent and loving hybrid. However, whether she is friendly or hesitant with strangers will depend on her genetic makeup as well as puppyhood socialization.
The Anatolian Shepherd and Labrador Retriever Mix
Labrador Retrievers are the world’s most popular dog. They make excellent family companions and are super eager to please. There is not one stubborn bone in a Lab’s body. All she wants to do is be with her family and make them proud.
The Anatolian Shepherd, on the other hand, would prefer to make her own decisions and think for herself. She is not so much concerned with learning to sit and stay. She’s too busy watching that shady lady down the street who keeps walking her suspicious Poodle by your house every morning. So, crossing these two could leave you with a few different results.
If your crossbreed takes after her Labrador parent, you can expect her to be outgoing, friendly, high-energy and eager to please. However, if she takes after her Anatolian Shepherd parent, prepare for a dog who is loyal and loving. She may also be aloof with strangers and stubborn when it comes to learning commands. Or, this crossbreed could be somewhere in between.
The Anatolian Shepherd and Australian Shepherd Mix
The Aussie, whose name leads many to believe she comes from Australia, was once known as a cowboy’s companion. And while this dog does have Aussie roots, she is an American breed. She was perfected in the Wild West, spending her early working days running on ranches and helping to herd cattle.
The Australian Shepherd is as intelligent as she is beautiful. Combining her with the large, brainy Anatolian Shepherd will surely lead to one of the most intelligent and dignified crossbreeds on our list. Her appearance depends on which purebred parent she takes after most, but she will likely be a heavy shedder who requires regular brushing.
When it comes to intelligence, this crossbreed just might be the crème of the crop. However, the Aussie is outgoing and exuberant while the Anatolian Shepherd is not. A cross between the Australian Shepherd and the Anatolian Shepherd could give you a dog that is somewhere in between these personalities. Or, she could be more like one parent over the other. It all depends.
Is an Anatolian Shepherd Mix Right for Me?
An overall healthy, highly intelligent, large, calm and loyal breed, the Anatolian Shepherd makes a wonderful dog for the right person or family. She needs lots of early socialization and obedience training. She should never be taken off the leash during walks or whenever she is outside of the security of her backyard or home.
Any potential Anatolian Shepherd owner or any dog lover looking to acquire an Anatolian Shepherd mix should keep her protective instincts in mind. This streak could be inherited by the offspring, even if that offspring is a cross between an Anatolian Shepherd and a cooler dog such as the Labrador.
This breed and any crossbreed offspring would be best suited for an experienced owner. An ideal owner would understand independent and intelligent breeds. This owner is prepared to utilize positive reinforcement, early socialization. She’s familiar with other necessities that it takes to raise a happy, healthy and well-adjusted dog with strong guarding instincts.
Do you or someone you know own any of the Anatolian Shepherd mixes we listed above? We would love to hear your stories. Tell us about your experiences with Anatolian Shepherd mixes in the comment section below.
Further Reading
- 16 Awesome Herding Dog Breeds
- German Shepherd Dogs
- Labrador Retrievers
- Great Pyrenees
- Golden Retrievers
- Huskies
- Great Danes
References:
- Ackerman, 2011, “The Genetic Connection; a Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs,” 2nd Edition.
- The American Kennel Club.
- Beuchat, 2014, “The Myth of Hybrid Vigor in Dogs….Is a Myth,” The Institute of Canine Biology.
- Howell et al., 2015, “Puppy Parties and Beyond: The Role of Early Age Socialization Practices on Adult Dog Behavior,” Dovepress.
- Mattinson, 2018, “Purebred Vs Mutt-Common Objections to Mixed Breed Dogs,” The Labrador Site.
- Sutter and Ostrander, 2004, “Dog Star Rising: The Canine Genetic System,” Nature Reviews Genetics.
- Turcsan et al. 2017, “Owner Perceived Differences Between Mixed-Breed and Purebred Dogs,” PLOS One.
Chloe says
I’ve had Shadow for almost 6 years now! I got her when she was 4 months old. She is an Anatolian Shepherd – Great Pyrenees mix! She is quite literally my best friend. She really struggled when she was younger being left alone but by the time she was 1 and a half, she was completely trained and ever since she has been the most loyal companion! I would recommend crate training because it helps from losing toothbrush’s and chords lol but she absolutely loves hers, it’s her little space for herself because she is so independent. She definitely has her own personality and demands attention haha! She’s definitely a great cuddler as well! I haven’t gotten her fixed because I want her to have some babies one day so if anyone has any tips or recommendations pls let me know!!
Dora currie says
We adopted an Anatolian Shepherd mix, who was a street dog in Turkey until 6 months go.
We got her 2 months ago and boy were we shocked at how smart this breed is!!
There were obviously a few hurdles with her never being in a home before, but she has adapted very well! She is about 4 years old and we are obsessed with her!
She is great with our bossy 6lbs Chihuahua, all dogs and people.
Being a street dog, she very socialized with other dogs and loves playing with them at the dog park.
She won’t sleep with us, but will cuddle next to us, but only for a few minutes. Every week her cuddle time ups by a minute or two. She loves her alone time, walks, attention and her stuffed animals.
Everyone in our circle is amazed at well she has adapted, her temperament and how easy she is on leash.
We are grateful for this amazing girl.
Alice says
Not sure if this is still live however we rescued a dog we thought was springer collie from her looks. Turns out she’s 25% Anatolian Shepherd, 12% White Swiss and then the rest is a big old mix.
She had SRMA an auto immune disease and swallowed 2 tennis balls, both of which had to be removed surgically. We have so far (in 2 yrs) spent over £20k on her to get her fixed up. We had no idea what we were letting ourselves in for and while we love her dearly its been hugely traumatic for my husband and I. We have had a good few months in 2022 where things have calmed down and we are crossing our fingers she doesn’t relapse again.
Lyndsay Baldock says
We have rescued what we think is an Anatolian mix laborador from Romania though we didn’t know that at the time. At five months he weighed 40 lbs and his height at the shoulder was 23 inches. We live in the uk and have somewhat smaller properties than yours though our vet is fine with ours. As Ollie is a rescue he has many issues plus his breed characteristics. Any tips on how to make this a successful rescue would be welcomed.
Thank you.
Lyndsay
Tish says
As previous owners of dogs between 125-215 lbs, when our nest was empty of ‘biggies’ we did our research and chose an Anatolian Pyrenees. A 50/50 mix with Dad the Pyr and Mom the Anatolian. I should say we train working service dogs so we may have more than average training ability and ‘giant’ breed experience which definitely can make an impact. By 5 months, our boy Moscow knew command, limits and was fully imprinted to his doggy family including 3 Chihuahuas and a Working Service Greyhound. He can be left alone in the house without a crate and is a happy go lucky dog. He is quite large (65lbs at 20 weeks) and we expect will finish at about 170. Both parents are at or over their individual breed standards in size. Our boy loves to be out in the homestead as well as spending his days in the house when we are and nights sleeping on his own couch. When we are ready we will add a second, a 1/4 Anatolian 3/4 Pyrenees of the same sex from the same breeder. We are happy to help any other owners with training issues and share fun stories.
Diego says
I just adopted an anatolian shepherd husky mix and i would appreciate any tips for obedience and training. He is at 5 months and although he has some commands down he cannot be left alone inside my house without him being in his crate and i hate leaving him in the crate. He has lots of room for improvement and would love to have his obedience 100% so him and I can be happy. I also own 2 mini schnauzers that he gets along with.
Any help or tips will be immensely appreciated.
Cheers
Lina says
Hello my husband and I are interested in a anatolian pyrenees mix dog. It is very hard to find a breeder. What is the breeder you hot yours from please.
Thank you for your time
Donna says
I have a small farm 2 acres. I have Kune Kune pigs, mini Nubians, Nigerian Drawf Goats and chickens. Was thinking about a LGD 1/4 Anatolian Shepherd and 3/4 Maremma Sheepdog. Does anyone have experience with the cross? I have young (7yo and 4 yo) nieces and nephews that visit me and was wondering if it would have any issues. If I do acquire the pup we would do professional obedience training.
Thank you for your input
Norm says
I have a 50-50 Anatolian Shepard-Maremma mix. They are wonderful dogs
as livestock guardians as well as friendly with children.
Kristine says
My best friend has a 8-9 yr old female Anatolian-Great Pyr mix, whom I am adopting soon b/c my friend is having difficulties finding rental property that will accept such a large dog. Lily is an absolute love-bug and knows me well, so the transition will hopefully be easy. When she was younger she was much more protective of “her pack,” and was a mostly-outdoor dog with several acres to run around on. Over the past 3 years, she has settled into being more of a “city dog” and is a mellow (but often obstinate) couch potato. LOL. I am really looking forward to having this dog in my life!
Janice Madison Lamb says
I have a small 50 lb dog that the exterminator just suggested looks very Anatolian. However, she is very high energy and runs and runs….she does seem to exhibit some Anatolian traits but definitely mixed with a smaller breed. She has really sweet and protective but also immediately warms up to strangers with biscuits. She also likes to chase anything that moves. She killed our chickens, squirrels, birds and recently w baby deer. She is separated from the cat as she wants to chase. Puzzling. She also acts like a puppy but is 6.5 years old. Puzzling. Would love to hear if anyone has an Anatolian mixed with a smaller breed
Matt says
We have a 6 month old Anatolian mix. Not sure what the mix is but i suspect its black lab. As she is mostly black with a white patch on her chest. Shes already at least 60+ pounds. She definitely has the Smart but stubborn traits. And has already started digging holes in my back yard. Right now im trying to teach her to not eat my furniture
Kelly says
We rescued an Anatolian Shepard and Black Lab. Bonnie was four at the time and I have never had a more standoffish dog. We had to put a gate up to get her to stay in the room with us. She was very happy with the grandchildren and anyone slim with long hair. It took a year for her to warm up to mainly my husband because he took her on long long walks. I was told she was a lab so her behavior puzzled me because those are lovey dogs. We now live on almost an acre and she is much happier though she gave my husband a run for his money trying to figure out how she got out to run but she would return and sit at the front gate and bark. And the next spot and maybe 10 spots later she is finally confined. She is stubborn, will not do any commands and still goes her own way though she is much more lovey and likes to sleep on my side of the bed and when I shush her off she sleeps on the floor on my side of the bed and hides my shoes. We absolutely love her and she does well in our pack of 7 dogs. I have 3 small dogs all chihuahua mix, and wanted a big dog, hence Bonnie, then I inherited my dads two dogs a wiener dog and a King Shepherd and once again inherited my daughters dog as she came to stay, she left and we have a 9 month old Boxer.
Danette Grace Wells says
We have two pups that are half Anatolian Shepherd and half rough Collie Dog. This is a great mix, and we love our boys!
Lissa Strubbe says
We adopted our beautiful Lexi at 4 months old, she’s now 11 years old. We were told she was a husky mix and for years we didn’t know what she was mixed with. We’ve had several huskies prior and she shows many traits of the husky but had a very protective side. She’s been a great loving and loyal companion. In her youth she was definitely a handful, more stubborn and mischief than any husky we’d had before. Through the years she’s traveled to many campgrounds with us and loved by all, uman ir dogs. except other shepards. Her best friend at home is a cat. If given the chance to get another we would in a heartbeat.
Sarah T says
We foster failed an ASP husky mix puppy (prob some other mix in there-waiting on Doggy DNA). So far his disposition is awesome. Perfect mix of chill and playful. After 2 training sessions knows sit, stay, fetch, touch, and around. Working on leash training, and he if doing great. But ignores when he is excited. He is only 10 weeks so predictable puppy behavior. He can be stubborn and has had potty training issues. In fairness we have 2 other male dogs, one who is a marker. He never pottys in his crate. Don’t know about protective nature yet-puppies love everyone!! I am excited to train and watch this gorgeous, sweet puppy grow into an amazing dog!
Joyce M Kelly says
I just rescued a 6 12 year old Anatolian – Great Pyrenees mix thru a rescue program. I have always had big dogs = mostly Dobermans. She’s small for both breeds – about 70 lbs. Annie is stubborn, has not had obedience training that I can tell. Only had her two weeks. We are working on sit, stay and come with marginal success. I’m on a waiting list for an obedience class. From the comments, sounds like I will never be successful with commands. She gets along great with our other dog. Her reaction to other dogs is tail wagging, sniffing and then suddenly barking while her tail is wagging like crazy. Not sure how to read that. Any advice welcome.
Michelle O'Neill says
I feel so lucky to have found my Gus from a shelter. Described as a Anatolian Shepherd Mix.
Not knowing just what mix he was looking over the aforementioned he checks a lot of the breed boxes.
So loving and trusting towards everyone, digs holes in the backyard and hides bones in them as well as lays in them.
He gets something that I have learned to be the zoomies”
Couldn’t believe it the first time it happen. I thought something happened to him !!
We are past Bernese Mountain dog owners so we have lots of experience with big dogs.
Gus is 100% solid muscle and loves playing with our four cats.
He has helped heal my heart. We love him so much.
Cynthia says
We are loved by an Anatolian mix we think boxer. We got him at a rescue. Rocky is a gentle giant. He is just turning 2, he does the shepherd pinch your behind when he wants to play so still working on that. He does not like people to just walk into his yard. He is the most Handsome dog. We just love him.
Dan Matras says
I adopted Carly in June 2017 she came from a rescue in Istanbul Turkey to a rescue here in Colorado. When she arrived at about two years of age she was not very social and whined a lot. Upon arriving in Colorado it was discovered during a vet exam that she needed both of her hips replaced. I received her about a week after the second hip replacement. It took about six weeks and then she was and continues to be perfectly healthy with no hip problems.
I have noticed that she is a very loving and friendly dog to both people and other animals but she is defensive at first for me with strangers but once she gets to know that they are OK. She is very friendly. She is also very stubborn when she doesn’t want to do something in particular she loves to be outside and at times I can’t get her to come in the house, even when it is cold at night she will just curl up in a ball and sleep in the backyard for several hours. This trait bothers me more than her so I keep checking up on her throughout the night to see if she wants to come in. She is a digger and uses the holes to sleep in so she has several holes some in the shade some in the light.
She is a beautiful very light brown coat with yellow eyes. I adopted her from the golden retriever rescue of the Rockies and she was supposed to be a golden retriever. While she looks a little like a golden she is definitely her own person. While I am partial to golden retrievers I love her dearly and would not trade her for anything in the world. She is a perfect companion even with her little quirks which makes her more endearing to me and frustrating at times.
Briget says
I have an almost 2 year old Anatolian / Maremma mix male who’s just a sweetheart. Originally hadn’t planned on getting him as my beloved Great Pyrenees had just recently passed away but you could imagine my surprise when I went to dinner with my dad and he handed me a dog! First thing I did was do some research on the breeds and any health issues that might make themselves known in the future.
Even though I was extremely weary when he was first given to me I wouldn’t trade him for the world. Kuma is a sweet, intelligent, bull headed, and extremely protective cuddle bug, Even protecting me from a neighbor’s dog that had gotten loose and tried to bite me! Currently looking for him a friend since my older Golden retriever isn’t much for his size when he does get in a playing mood. 10/10 would adopt again though I think I’ll look for a Great Pyrenees cross this time xD
brian shipley says
I got a nice surprise when my mini aussie turned out to be anatonian aussie collie maybe bearded hes 8 months now great dog but alot of play bitting and very smart
Debilou says
I have an Anatolian Australian mix and this article couldn’t be more accurate! I mean exact. Mine is exceptionally smart and sweet and fluffy and smart and has such a personality loves people but is protective when she deems its necessary. Couldn’t imagine a better dog!
Mike says
I have red that one should never cross breed a LSG and a herder, this could produce a giant dog with high prey drive, any thoughts?
John & Ann Griffin says
we bought what was said to be a pure anatolian to be a protector/companion to our pet goat. the seller later admitted she is a cross with great pyrenese and husky. we love her but have arranged her return as we fear the husky element may explain her recent aggression toward the goat. sound plausible?
Judith Meals says
I believe my son and daughter-in-law may have acquired a mix by accident. This is a dog that has been rescued twice. I now have the dog in my backyard with a Pyrenees mix. Very sweet very loving kind of lazy very calm. Prominent double dew claws on all four limbs with a rather lanky gate. This dog has the most beautiful golden eyes with dark fur around each of its eyes he’s almost as big as my Pyrenees mix at about 20 months. Big round pause where Pyrenees mix Bella has long pause with long digits. I wish I could post a picture. He is quite beautiful.
Mr. Marino says
Hello Madison Gutherie,
I love the breed never owned one yet waiting for the proper finances as dogs can be expensive to maintain. With doctors and obedience training not to mention good and your time.
I have 3/4 of an acre fenced in back yard plus 4 kids ranges 1 year to 7 yrs old. My question is I would love to find the right mix but just getting an Anatolian is a reach because of breeders location etc. So is an Anatolian a good puppy for my kids cause I’m gonna be away working I need something to protect my kids when they are outside and at night when I’m away. Any thoughts thank you.
Justin Hobbs says
I have a male Anatolian and a female Anatolian with 1/4 boz and 1/4 kangal. They are very gentle giants and treat my 5 yo daughter like their flock. Very calm and gentle although their demeanor changes when strange animals come around. Mine aren’t aggressive they simply intimidate strange dogs and don’t let them come around. They’re not confrontational at all usually just stand their ground until the strange dogs leave. However mine are very socialized so they do well with strange people coming around.
Dino says
Hello. I have a pure breed male and female Anatolian. Both going on 2 years old. Would give you a pup if I can get them to breed lol. She won’t let him mount her lol. Hopefully that will change. Anyway. I find to make them protective you will have to keep them away from ALL People but your family. Because they like to make friends with strangers when they are young.
Bobbie says
We’ve twice rescued a full ASD. Both male. The first had hip issues as a pup, we’re guessing inbreeding. Severi was a docile pet. He did keep a close eye on the niece and nephew when the visites and let my nephew use him as a pillow during movie time. When camping he would stay on the outskirts of the campsite and keep an eye on us all. But he NEVER PLAYED. Never. He just watched and snuggled.
Dax, on the other hand was a stray at 9 months, so we have no clue what those 9 months held. He’s loving towards us and our other two dogs, he and the older male do bonk heads for rank occasionally. He is more playful than Severi was, but still not much. He plays with the dogs, but not so much with the humans.
When they say stubborn, they mean it! We never have been able to get them to follow commands like sit, stay, etc. But still well behaved pups.