We fell in love with the breed 10 years ago after seeing one on a PBS special, where an Anatolian took his herd of goats out to graze. The farm featured was located in arid South Africa, where the cheetah is a major predator. The goats had to travel long distances each day just to graze. The dog lead them out each morning and brought them back to the corral each evening without a human shepherd. After seeing this intelligent dog, I had to have one.
Through the years I have observed similar behaviors in, such as watching her wake the goats at dawn and lead them out to graze. Once she had them all up and out grazing, she proceeded to “inspect” the perimeter fence. Prior to getting our first Anatolian we could not even keep our small flock of ducks alive. Since Tess has been on duty, we have not lost one animal to a predator.
The ASD is keenly aware of those that are vulnerable due do to age or illness and will lay by their side day in and day out. Tess is very patient with young livestock. Since we often bottle feed our baby dairy goats, she steps in as surrogate mom. They cuddle with her to stay warm and use her as a springboard for flying leaps.
In 2009 I heard amazing stories of a dog named Pinarbasi’s Sultan from Alabama. I began to look for some of his offspring and found Tucker. He is all I hoped he would be, a gentle giant. Gentle toward us humans anyway. He is great with the puppies, training them and playing with them. By day he protects against airborne predators and by night he keeps coyotes at bay. Because of his instincts we are hopeful that he will produce some great poultry guardians.
Sir, Yes Sir!
- Tucker
- Aleph – She is almost 20 months old and doing great with goats, sheep and chickens.
- Tess babysitting
Tess working
Tucker on guard
