Working Dogs
Akbash
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Very Large
Life Span
10 to 12 years
Weight
75 to 140 pounds
Height
27 to 34 inches
Breed Group
Working Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Akbash — Key Facts
About the Akbash
The Akbash is a very large working dog known for being deeply loving with its family and reserved with strangers. With a highly intelligent mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Akbash is best matched with experienced owners. Typically standing 27 to 34 inches and weighing 75 to 140 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, making it a devoted companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Working Dogs group, the Akbash brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. On the calmer end of the energy spectrum, the Akbash is content with moderate daily activity. Deeply affectionate, the Akbash loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Akbash has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it responsive to its environment without being overly sensitive. The Akbash is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Akbash is generally sociable with other dogs, particularly when introduced properly.
Around strangers, the Akbash is naturally reserved and can make an effective watchdog. The Akbash barks at a moderate level — enough to alert you, not enough to disturb the neighbours. This breed has a low wanderlust potential and is unlikely to roam. Prey drive is low, making off-lead exercise relatively safe in open areas.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, the Akbash is a medium-lived breed. The Akbash is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Akbash can be prone to weight gain. Measure meals carefully, limit treats, and ensure adequate daily exercise to keep them at a healthy weight. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Akbash is best suited to experienced dog owners who can provide a calm, low-activity lifestyle. A home with outdoor space is strongly preferred.
The Akbash does not cope well with long periods alone and can develop separation anxiety — this breed thrives in homes where someone is present most of the day. This breed prefers warmer climates and should be protected from extreme cold. Hot weather should be approached with caution — ensure shade, water, and avoid exercise in peak heat.
In summary, the Akbash is a sociable and loving working dogs that rewards patient, experienced owners. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Akbash home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Akbash good with kids?
The Akbash is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Akbash need?
The Akbash has modest exercise needs. Two short walks a day and some indoor play are typically sufficient to keep this breed healthy and content.
Does the Akbash shed a lot?
Yes, the Akbash is a heavy shedder. Daily brushing, regular vacuuming, and seasonal grooming appointments are part of owning this breed.
Own a Akbash?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Akbash owners in Hushku.