Everything goes back to this: Great Pyrenees are livestock guardian dogs. Found all the basics I wanted to know about LGD breeds. Dohner, Janet Vorwald. They have great senses of smell, sight, and hearing, which enables them to notice predators from a distance. Most livestock guardian breeds are very independent, not needing much human instruction. They are quite reserved, independent thinkers. This is why socialization is even more important with this breed versus some others. They are typically one of the best LGDs with children, and they usually live for about 13 years. Teeth brushing is recommended every few days. (males), 88-125 lbs. A large dog like him can develop bloat from gulping down a large amount of food too quickly. Karakachan is more "stay at home". They are highly reactive to threats, keeping predators well away from the herd. Do you keep any dogs from this livestock guardian dog breed comparison? Both Great Pyrenees and Bulgarian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. These dogs require an owner who is capable of handling an assertive, strong-willed dog. Komondors will fiercely protect all that is considers theirs, including their owners/family. Your dog will need a dog food targeted at a large breed. They have a dense undercoat that helps with insulation from both cold and hot temperatures. The Great Pyrenees is an intelligent, strong willed dog with a mind of his own so he will be able to be trained and socialized successfully. Many of the large predators were poisoned and therefore eliminated the need for the Karakachan dogs. The Maremma Sheepdog is a large dog with a muscular build. If you do need to clip their nails, either have a professional do it or make sure you have industrial strength nail clippers to ensure you do not damage their nails. Both varieties have a double coat. She loves her own . While Karakachans can be more high maintenance than other breeds, they also can make the best of pets. Many traits such as size and guarding instincts are common This is a working dog, intelligent and independent guard dog. Osteosarcoma bone cancer must be treated immediately as it is potentially fatal. Reserved around strangers but loyal and devoted with his family. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Long daily walks, access to a large and secure garden, and lots of mental stimulation can keep a Karakachan content in the absence of herding duties. In fact, they have become so cherished that George W. Bush was actually gifted a Karakachan puppy when he visited the country in 2003! However, in recent years, many people have begun keeping these dogs as family pets. They have lower energy than many other livestock guardian dog breeds but still need regular exercise and space to roam. A Veterinarian's Review of the Raw Diet for Dogs, Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, Doggy Dental Care How to Keep a Dogs Teeth in Good Condition, Travel Vaccinations & Preparing Your Dog for Foreign Travel. research the breeds and also the pedigree of livestock guardian dogs before However, because of their size, they should be monitored during playtime with children simply because they are so big. They do not do well in apartments or small spaces. Great Pyrenees Mixes: 16 Large Pyrenees Crossbreeds - Love Your Dog The sweet-faced akbash is originally from Turkey and has been used as a livestock guardian dog for centuries. The nose is black, the eyes brown and the ears medium length and floppy. Note: Theres a bit of controversy about the Anatolian shepherd and the Kangal. . They will protect early and from all predators, including people they do not know. It is difficult to say without knowing their ages and environments. Your Great Pyrenees isn't going to be a dog leaping around you demanding a game or walk like what you get from some energetic dogs. Farm Dogs: A Comprehensive Will cause lameness. Unfortunately, there are no health studies available relating to the Karakachan breed, and very limited anecdotal evidence exists regarding which diseases actually affect them. Developed throughout the years for high levels of stamina and the ability to patrol a flock all day and jump to their defence when needed, the Karakachan has predictably high exercise demands.