The Guardian Spirit of Our Anatolian Shepherds

Anatolian Shepherds have a long history in the rugged landscapes of Turkey, where they have been selectively bred for the task of guarding livestock. These dogs have a robust frame and acute senses which make them ideal guardians against any threats that may approach livestock. Strong independence and loyalty are also defining traits of this amazing breed. These characteristics and their calm disposition and vigilant attitude make them a natural fit for our needs here at Matanah Meadows so that they can move comfortably among sheep and are able to sense danger at a moment’s notice. Predators that they may encounter here on the Farm are mountain lions, bears, coyotes, bobcats, foxes and hawks. Their low prey drive ensures the safety and harmony among the animals they protect, especially with poultry and lambs. With Anatolian Shepherds by our side, we are able to rest easy knowing that our livestock are under careful watch. They allow us to effectively shepherd our flocks while ensuring the tranquility of our countryside existence with the indigenous wildlife of the Sierras Nevada Foothills.

Meet Pablo

Whether he's jumping onto the fence for a giant hug or simply seeking a gentle pat, Pablo undoubtedly captures the hearts of everyone he encounters. He stands as one of our tallest dogs, yet possesses an even larger personality. Pablo relishes his role as the elder sibling to the younger dogs—Gwyn, Seffir, and Tater Tot. He not only mentors them but also enlivens his days with playful wrestling and tug-of-war games. Lambs, puppies, and visiting youngsters hold a special place in his heart. Don't mistake this fluffy, affectionate Ewok-like dog as merely a gentle pasture companion, he can transform into a formidable guardian willing to risk everything for the safety of his livestock.

… And the Rest of the Pack

Kaan

Kaan is the breeding male of the pack who demonstrates raw power mixed with keen judiciousness and calm. Two very important rules: Do not disrespect him. Do not underestimate him.

Kaiya

Kaiya is pack queen. She is an excellent mother and teacher. She keeps order of all things, especially her pack and what they are supposed to be doing. She is intelligent and loves to patrol and rid the Farm of things that do not belong.

Cassie

Cassie is our first Anatolian Shepherd. We easily fell in love with the breed due to her exemplary guarding skills, keen senses and determination to protect though she gets a little snarly with food.

Zara

Zara is Kaan and Kaiya’s first daughter. She is an invaluable perimeter guard. She excels at keeping the coyotes at bay along the fence line and clearing the pasture before the goats take their morning grazing rounds.

Tater Tot

As newborn puppies, we named this litter silly names according to their collar color. His collar was tan and he was huge and the shape of a Tater Tot! The name stuck. He is going to be one powerful boy with a huge bark!

Sefir Firtina

We just call her “Saffy”, but her full Turkish name means Sapphire Storm. She is just that, a beautiful swirling storm, full of intrigue and energy. Surprisingly enough, she is actually our best puppy at leash walking.

Gwyn

Gwyn is the perfect combination of confidence, grace, skill, and fierceness balanced with calm observation. She is excellent working on her own or with the others. We are really excited to witness this amazing guardian develop.

Kofu

Unlike the rest, Kofu is a Great Pyrenees. Since he is our oldest dog and is starting to slow down, we are trying to convince him he needs to retire and give his aching hips a rest. But, he will have none of it and escapes back to his old post of watching the goats.

Come and see if you can find all of the Livestock Guardian Dogs on the Farm!

 FAQs

  • We have nine dogs: eight Anatolian Shepherds and one Great Pyrenees.

  • The dogs work the best in pairs for social as well as strategic reasons. We also have quite a few different areas that need guarding. We also plan to expand into a different area so we are letting the young ones mature and mentor alongside the older dogs before sending them out.

  • Our dogs have been socialized to be friendly with guests. As with all creatures, some are more outgoing and social than others. If someone is doing something that a dog feels is threatening to them or their livestock, they will be very protective and I would hate to be on the other side!

  • From time to time our dogs need to wear an e-collar to keep them from digging out or climbing over the fence when they are determined to chase after whatever predator in which they were engaged. We have receiver wires around most of our pastures, so when a dog is wearing the special collar, it will give a warning tone that the dog is too close to the fence and if the dog ignores the sound, it will give a quick shock. Kofu is one that can escape anything by climbing and he loves to demonstrate his Great Pyrenees characteristic of roaming! So, Kofu cannot come to the fence line for a pet without being shocked.