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The Akbash Pyrenees is a mixed breed of the Akbash and Great Pyrenees. They’re a relatively new breed, and since they’re fairly uncommon, there’s still much to learn about them. What we do know so far is that these dogs are giants that can easily surpass 100 pounds when fully grown. Despite their large size, they’re quite calm and gentle, and they become extremely loyal to their families. When paired with the right family, they can become some of the most devoted companion dogs that anyone could ever ask for.
Breed Overview
Suitable for:
Active families, suburban and rural homes, experienced dog owners
Temperament:
Calm, independent, loyal, protective
Akbash Pyrenees take on many wonderful qualities of the Akbash and Great Pyrenees. They’re known for their bravery and undying loyalty to their families. They often grow to be gentle, calm, and confident, and their families and friends automatically feel safer when they’re around.
Due to their size, energy, and training needs, Akbash Pyrenees are usually a good challenge for experienced dog owners who want to raise a giant dog. These dogs are big and powerful, so it’s important for them to be matched with an owner who can invest in solid obedience training.
Akbash Pyrenees Characteristics
Akbash Pyrenees Puppies
Akbash Pyrenees are fairly uncommon, so it’s often challenging to find a breeder near you. You may be able to find some Akbash or Great Pyrenees breeders who also have mixed-breed breeding programs that include Akbash Pyrenees. Another way to find an Akbash Pyrenees is to contact an Akbash or Great Pyrenees rescue, as they may have some adoptable mixed-breed dogs. Sometimes, your local animal shelter may have an Akbash Pyrenees who’s ready for adoption.
Akbash Pyrenees tend to be calm and dignified when they’re older, but puppies tend to be more rambunctious. They’re very energetic and also have a lot of stamina. It’s important to provide adequate amounts of exercise every day to ensure puppies have healthy muscle growth and development. Since Akbash Pyrenees grow to very large sizes, it’s also important to teach them at a young age not to jump on people or steal food from counters and tabletops.
Akbash Pyrenees Origin & History
It’s unclear when the Akbash Pyrenees first appeared. They started popping up within the last several years, and it’s no surprise that they’re growing in popularity. Both Akbashes and Great Pyrenees aren’t as well-known as other common purebred dogs, but they do have a devoted fanbase. They’re considered to be ancient dog breeds that have lived alongside humans for thousands of years.
Akbashes originate from Turkey, while Great Pyrenees have origins in Central Asia. They share many similar characteristics and are often mistaken for each other. They were both originally bred for herding and guarding livestock, and they grow to almost the same size when fully grown.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Akbash Pyrenees 🧠
Akbash Pyrenees are intelligent dogs that were bred to herd and protect livestock. They’re quick learners and have excellent protective instincts. Since they have a lot of energy and stamina, they still require a lot of exercise even though they have a calm demeanor.
Akbash Pyrenees are also confident and independent, which are excellent traits to have in guard dogs. However, this can also make them challenging to train. There’s no denying that Akbash Pyrenees are smart, but they may not always be willing to listen. It’s only after their owners gain their respect and trust that Akbash Pyrenees become eager to please. Once you’ve won over an Akbash Pyrenees, you’ll find very few other dogs that will surpass their loyalty.
Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡
A well-trained Akbash Pyrenees can be a gentle guardian and companion for young children. However, they’re generally recommended for families with older children due to their large size. Akbash Pyrenees can easily knock over a small child by accident. If they’re not trained properly or don’t get enough exercise, their energy can be extremely overwhelming for children.
Akbash Pyrenees also tend to be more independent and like having time to themselves. They can feel stressed out if a child doesn’t respect their personal space and leaves them alone when they want solitude.
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽
Due to being independent dogs, Akbash Pyrenees usually prefer being the only pet in the home. They can get along with other dogs, but they usually don’t really choose to interact and play with them. Early socialization is essential for an Akbash Pyrenees. They’re not known to be aggressive with other dogs, but they can be a liability because of their size and strength.
With training and socialization, Akbash Pyrenees can live with other types of pets harmoniously. They can learn to mind their own business and leave other pets alone.
Things to Know When Owning an Akbash Pyrenees:
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
Dogs of different sizes have distinct food and nutritional requirements. In general, giant dog breeds like the Akbash Pyrenees require diets that have less fat and calories than smaller dogs. It’s also important to pay attention to protein and calcium content to ensure healthy bone and muscle growth and development.
It’s best to consult your veterinarian regarding your Akbash Pyrenees’ diet, and they can recommend specific brands or diets. In general, Akbash Pyrenees will be fine eating dog food specifically formulated for giant dog breeds. They usually don’t require other special diets unless they have food allergies or a chronic health condition. Akbash Pyrenees that are particularly athletic and active may benefit from eating a high-protein diet. However, have a discussion with your veterinarian before changing their diet because consuming too much protein can put your dog at risk of developing health issues.
Exercise 🐕
Akbash Pyrenees require at least an hour of exercise a day. They’ll enjoy going on daily walks, walking on hiking trails, and running around in a fenced yard or field. Because they can clear great heights, make sure your fences are tall and sturdy enough to keep your Akbash Pyrenees contained.
Akbash Pyrenees tend to be more introverted, so they don’t usually enjoy going to the dog park and playing with other dogs. They can be very selective about the dogs they befriend and may only choose to engage and run around with a small number of dogs.
Many Akbash Pyrenees will also enjoy having a job. They’re commonly trained for search and rescue work and other jobs that require strength and stamina. If you’re looking for ways to keep your Akbash Pyrenees active, you may find that your dog will enjoy training and participating in herding events.
Training 🦮
Unruly and untrained Akbash Pyrenees will become a liability and safety risk. They’re capable of significant property damage and injuries, so adequate training is a must. It’s important to take Akbash Pyrenees puppies to puppy socialization classes so that they can learn to have healthy interactions with other dogs. They’ll also benefit immensely from participating in group obedience training classes.
When training an Akbash Pyrenees, it’s recommended to work with an experienced professional dog trainer. Akbash Pyrenees can have a mind of their own and may not be very interested in obedience training when you’re first starting out. A professional trainer can help you develop an effective training plan and find ways to keep your Akbash Pyrenees engaged and motivated.
Grooming ✂️
Akbash Pyrenees have relatively extensive grooming needs. They’re moderate to heavy shedders and have thick double coats that are prone to tangling and matting. Therefore, they must be brushed daily or every other day.
Scheduling professional grooming appointments every 6 to 8 weeks can help manage the shedding and keep an Akbash Pyrenees’ skin and coat healthy. They’ll also benefit from getting bathed monthly in between grooming appointments.
Akbash Pyrenees also have long ears that tend to trap moisture easily and develop ear infections. It’s important to check their ears regularly and use an ear cleanser to keep them clean and dry.
Health and Conditions 🏥
Akbash Pyrenees are generally healthy dogs, but they’re prone to specific health conditions as they get older.
Minor Conditions
- Growing pains
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
Serious Conditions
- Bloat
- Addison’s disease
- Obesity
Male vs Female
The most significant difference between male and female Akbash Pyrenees is size. Males tend to grow a little larger and heavier than females. There aren’t any consistently distinguishable personality traits and temperaments between male and female Akbash Pyrenees. Temperament is attributed to genetics and environment.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Akbash Pyrenees
1. Akbash Pyrenees are smaller than they appear.
Many people can feel intimidated by an Akbash Pyrenees when they first meet them because of their large size and confidence. While Akbash Pyrenees are certainly large dogs, they’re not as large as they appear. They tend to have a slim build, but their thick coat makes them look much bigger than they actually are.
2. Akbash Pyrenees may have anesthesia sensitivity.
Akbash Pyrenees are at higher risk of anesthesia sensitivity because they’re prone to developing certain health conditions that can cause them to have stronger reactions to anesthesia. For example, they’re prone to obesity and can have a lower metabolism, which can be a combination that affects anesthesia sensitivity.
3. Akbash Pyrenees don’t adjust well to city life.
Since Akbash Pyrenees need a lot of space, they’re recommended for single-family homes in suburban and rural neighborhoods. They don’t adjust well to apartment living and living in crowded cities. They also have a loud bark and can develop a habit of barking excessively due to their guarding instincts. Therefore, they don’t make the best apartment neighbors and are prone to receiving noise complaints.
Final Thoughts
Akbash Pyrenees are loyal companion dogs with many noble characteristics. Their calm and confident demeanor provides an additional sense of safety and security to the home. They’re also independent and reliable, which makes them excellent guard dogs and watchdogs.
Akbash Pyrenees are often happiest living with owners who have active lifestyles. They’ll enjoy going on hikes and spending a lot of time outdoors. They’ll also thrive when they meet an experienced dog owner who understands a giant dog breed’s specific needs and can invest in adequate training.
Featured Image Credit: (L) bektasaydogan, Shutterstock | (R) Mary Swift, Shutterstock
