Explore the unique traits of the Aksaray Malaklisi breed with our comprehensive guide to their distinctive features.
Introduction
The Aksaray Malaklisi is a very rare dog breed that originates from Turkey. With only seven breeders raising them and just 100 dogs exported to other countries, they are highly sought after but difficult to acquire. Breeders ensure that the puppies are breastfed for the first 2 months of their life before being given a special diet consisting of leftovers from butchers, dog food, and a mashed mix of barley, eggs, and milk. This diet is said to help the dog grow quickly and remain free from various diseases.
The breed is primarily used as a livestock guardian and is known for being strong, brave, fierce, and hardworking. They are not recognized by any kennel clubs and are only bred for working purposes. The Aksaray Malaklisi is not considered a good pet for families and is not recommended for households with children. They can be aggressive towards other dogs and are unlikely to get along with cats or other small pets.
Owning an Aksaray Malaklisi requires careful consideration and dedication. They need a strict diet, plenty of exercise, and socialization from a young age. They are independent and difficult to train, and they require minimal grooming. Despite their hardy nature, they are prone to certain health conditions due to their large size.
Overall, the Aksaray Malaklisi is a rare and intriguing breed that is not easily accessible to prospective buyers. They are best suited for experienced handlers and are primarily used as working dogs in the Aksaray region of Turkey.
History of the Aksaray Malaklisi
The Aksaray Malaklisi is a rare and ancient breed of dog that originated in the Aksaray region of Turkey. The breed has a long history of being used as a livestock guardian, protecting animals from predators and thieves. The dogs were bred to be enormous and were selectively bred to retain their massive size, making them one of the largest breeds in the world. The Aksaray Malaklisi is not officially recognized by any kennel clubs, and there are only seven breeders in the Aksaray region who are officially allowed to breed the dogs.
The breeders follow a strict regime and diet to ensure that the dogs grow to a very large size and remain healthy. Puppies are breastfed for the first 2 months of their life before being given a special diet consisting of leftovers from butchers, dog food, and a mix of barley, eggs, and milk. This diet is believed to help the dogs grow quickly and remain free from various diseases. Only 100 puppies are exported to other countries, and potential buyers are carefully vetted by the breeders.
The Aksaray Malaklisi is not considered a good pet for families and is not suitable for families with children. They are independent, difficult to train, and can be aggressive towards other dogs and potentially even with people. The breed is primarily used as a working dog and is not raised to be a pet. They require a considerable amount of food and at least an hour of exercise a day. The breed has a long lifespan, especially for a dog of its size, and is known for its exceptional guarding skills.
Physical characteristics
The Aksaray Malaklisi is a massive dog, known for its exceptional size and strength. The breed is one of the largest in the world, with males reaching heights of over 30 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 110 and 170 pounds. Females are slightly smaller but still incredibly imposing. They have a strong, muscular build and a commanding presence.
Coat
The Aksaray Malaklisi has a short, dense coat that provides protection from the elements while working outdoors. The coat is typically white, with some dogs having patches of fawn, brindle, or black. Their coat is weather-resistant and requires minimal grooming, making them well-suited for their role as livestock guardians.
Head and face
The breed has a large, powerful head with a broad skull and strong jaws. Their ears are medium-sized and hang close to the head. The Aksaray Malaklisi has a deep-set, dark brown eyes that convey their alert and watchful nature. Their expression is often described as fierce and determined, reflecting their role as guardians.
Body
The Aksaray Malaklisi has a well-proportioned body with a deep chest, strong back, and muscular limbs. Their powerful build allows them to move with agility and speed, essential traits for their role as working dogs. The breed’s physical characteristics are a testament to their strength and endurance, making them ideal for protecting livestock in challenging environments.
Temperament and behavior
The Aksaray Malaklisi is known for its strong, brave, and fierce temperament. As a working dog primarily used as a livestock guardian, they are independent and hardworking. They are bred to be strong and skilled at guarding livestock, and they are not generally considered suitable as pets for families. The breed is known for being headstrong and only taking commands from their handler, making them difficult to train and not likely to get along with other pets.
Additionally, the Aksaray Malaklisi is not considered a good pet for families with children, as accidental injuries are highly likely if the dog interacts with tiny kids. They are known to be aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex, and are unlikely to get along with cats or other small pets. Their independent nature and strong guarding instincts make them better suited for experienced owners who understand their unique temperament and behavior.
In terms of behavior, the Aksaray Malaklisi is not a dog that tolerates apartment living and does best when kept outdoors. They require a considerable amount of food, with a diet consisting of dog food, butcher leftovers, and a mix of barley, eggs, and milk. Their diet is carefully regulated by breeders to ensure they grow quickly and remain healthy. The breed also requires a significant amount of exercise and must be trained from a young age to socialize with strangers and other animals.
Overall, the Aksaray Malaklisi is a rare and intriguing breed with a temperament and behavior that is best suited for experienced owners looking for a strong and skilled livestock guardian. Their unique needs and characteristics make them a challenging but rewarding breed for those who understand and appreciate their working dog nature.
Health considerations
The Aksaray Malaklisi is a healthy and hardy dog with a long lifespan, especially for a breed of this size. However, they are prone to a few conditions, primarily because of their huge frame. The male Malaklisi will grow taller and heavier than the female. That doesn’t mean that the female is small, however, and one can easily weigh between 110 and 170 pounds. The temperament of males and females is similar and is more affected by their upbringing and health.
Health Considerations:
1. Hip Dysplasia: This is a common condition in large breeds like the Aksaray Malaklisi. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain. Regular vet check-ups and proper exercise can help manage this condition.
2. Bloat: Also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), bloat is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Feeding the Malaklisi smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise after eating can help prevent bloat.
3. Heart Conditions: Large dogs are prone to heart conditions, so regular heart screenings and a healthy diet are important for the Aksaray Malaklisi’s overall health.
It’s important for owners of the Aksaray Malaklisi to be aware of these potential health issues and work closely with a veterinarian to ensure their dog’s well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper grooming can also contribute to the overall health of this rare and magnificent breed.
Working abilities
The Aksaray Malaklisi is primarily a working dog used as a livestock guardian to protect against predators and thieves. They are known for their strong, brave, and fierce nature, making them well-suited for guarding livestock. Their hardworking nature and independence make them excellent for the task at hand, as they are bred specifically for this purpose.
The breeders of Aksaray Malaklisi have a strict regime and diet that must be adhered to in order to ensure the dog retains their huge form and good health. Puppies are breastfed for the first 2 months of their life before being given a special diet consisting of leftovers from the butchers, dog food, and a mashed mix of barley, eggs, and milk. This diet is claimed to help the dog grow quickly and remain free from various diseases, making them ideal for their working role.
In terms of working abilities, the Aksaray Malaklisi is known for their strong guarding instincts and ability to protect livestock from predators. They are independent and do not require much human intervention, making them well-suited for the task of guarding. They are also known for their hardworking nature, as they are bred specifically to be used as a working dog in the Aksaray region of Turkey.
The Aksaray Malaklisi is a rare and intriguing breed, known for their exceptional guarding skills and strong working abilities. They are not raised to be pets and do not make appropriate companions for children. They are independent, difficult to train, and have the potential to be overly protective, making them more suitable for experienced dog owners.
Future of the breed
The future of the Aksaray Malaklisi breed is uncertain due to its rarity and limited breeding program. With only seven breeders raising them and just 100 dogs being exported to other countries, the breed faces challenges in terms of genetic diversity and sustainability. Efforts to increase the population of the breed and promote responsible breeding practices will be crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of the Aksaray Malaklisi.
Conservation Efforts
Breeders and organizations dedicated to the preservation of rare and endangered breeds are working to promote the Aksaray Malaklisi and raise awareness about its unique characteristics and historical significance. Conservation efforts may involve collaborations with international organizations, genetic studies, and breeding programs aimed at maintaining the breed’s health and vitality.
Recognition and Standardization
One potential avenue for securing the future of the Aksaray Malaklisi is seeking recognition and standardization from kennel clubs and breed associations. Official recognition can help raise the profile of the breed, attract responsible breeders, and establish breed standards that prioritize health, temperament, and conformation. This recognition can also open doors for participation in dog shows and events, further promoting the breed on a global scale.
Education and Advocacy
Education and advocacy efforts will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Aksaray Malaklisi. Informing the public about the breed’s unique characteristics, its role as a working dog, and responsible ownership practices can help dispel misconceptions and increase appreciation for the breed. Advocacy for ethical breeding, proper care, and suitable working environments can contribute to the well-being and longevity of the Aksaray Malaklisi.
In conclusion, the Aksaray Malaklisi breed is known for its hardiness, intelligence, and loyalty. With their unique physical and behavioral characteristics, they make great working dogs and loyal companions, particularly in rural and agricultural settings.