Let’s compare the two formidable canine opponents, the Alabai and the Kangal dog. These two are extremely versatile and powerful breeds known for their agility, strength, and determination. Both breeds share strong genetic similarity.
Both Kangal dogs and Alabai (also known as Central Asian Shepherd Dogs) are livestock guardian dogs, renowned for facing off against some of the world’s most formidable predators. Their strength, stamina, and endurance are deeply reflected in their muscular build and gigantic physique.
These breeds are equipped with sharp protective instincts and strong bite force. Their intimidating appearance makes them outstanding guard dogs. This article presents a fascinating comparison between these fierce protectors.
Have a look at some differences between Kangal dogs and Alabai dogs.
Alabai vs. Kangal: Which Protects Larger Property Better?
Appearance and Basic Information
Both Central Asian Shepherd dogs and Kangal dogs are large dogs with a sturdy and muscular build. However, there are some differences between the origin and appearance of the two breeds. Kangals originated in Anatolia, Turkey, while the Alabai dogs hail from Central Asia.
Height, Weight, and Bite Force
Kangals, also known as Anatolian Shepherds, stand 27 to 29 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 150 pounds. They are taller than the Alabai and have a bite force of around 743 PSI, the strongest in the canine world.
Their distinctively broad head, floppy ears, dark muzzle, and profusely muscled body give them a rugged appearance.
Central Asian Shepherds stand 25.5 to 27.5 inches tall and measure up to 110 pounds, explains PetMD. They have a rectangular head and loose skin. Alabai have a bite force of 500 to 700 PSI. While both breeds have a similar appearance, Kangals’ distinct black mask and ears set them apart.
Coat
Their weatherproof double coat is quite dense and short to medium in length. It varies in colors from tan to cream or fawn. Central Asian Shepherds also have a weather-resistant double coat, but it varies in color from solid black, fawn, or white to brindle and gray.
They possess a relatively shorter and more manageable coat. While Kangals always have a straight coat, Alabais’ coat can be straight, wavy, or rough.
Face and Body
Another difference between the two breeds lies in their ear shape. Kangal dogs have pendant-shaped ears that hang close to their face, while Alabai dogs have V-shaped ears that stand erect.
Kangals have dark eyes and a refined facial structure, while the Alabai have a broader head and lighter eyes. Kangal dogs have a low-hanging tail, whereas Alabai have their tail in an erect position, slightly curving over the back.
Temperament and Behavior
Both the Alabai and Kangal dogs are furious guard dogs with strong protective instincts, but their temperaments slightly differ from each other.
There are two distinct sides to a Kangal’s personality. They are devoted and protective guardians known for their alert nature and fearlessness. At the same time, Kangal dogs are loyal and reliable pooches who make excellent companions for experienced dog owners.
Despite their large size, Kangals are gentle with kids and make good family dogs with proper socialization. They are cautious and reserved towards strangers, but behave well with familiar adults, children, and pets, explains Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are also loyal and affectionate towards their family members. While Alabai are also good with young kids, Kangal dogs are more kid-friendly and family-oriented. Central Asian Shepherd dogs are famous for their courage, endurance, and working capacity.
Like Kangals, they also possess instincts of territory. Alabai are confident, proud, and quiet dogs who don’t mind being alone, unlike many other large breeds in the world.
Kangal dogs, on the other hand, are relatively calm, sensitive, and controlled. Both breeds require early training and proper socialization to become well-mannered pets.
Trainability and Intelligence
Both the Alabai dogs and Kangals are intelligent, but strong-willed and stubborn. They use their independent thinking abilities to herd and guard livestock and protect the territory. It takes some time to teach these breeds new tricks and commands.
The two breeds, Central Asian Shepherds and Kangals, learn new commands in an average of 25 to 40 repetitions. With proper training and socialization, they can learn complex commands.
Kangals are easier to train than Central Asian Shepherd dogs. Their self-willed nature makes training a bit challenging, but consistency is the key to success. The Alabai, on the other hand, is hard to train. They are unable to associate commands with actions due to their independent nature.
The American Kennel Club explains that training a Central Asian Shepherd is difficult but not impossible. Potential owners should consider that they are highly protective, so it may be hard to bring new people home.
Properly socialized and well-trained Central Asian Ovcharka and Kangal dogs make one of the best watchdogs. While obedience training is a must for both breeds, they should receive protection or guard dog training under no circumstances.
Health Considerations
Anatolian Shepherd (Kangal), overall, is a healthy breed. They are not likely to suffer from common health problems that other breeds encounter, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, a life-threatening condition that involves twisting and inversion of the stomach.
Although Central Asian Shepherd dogs have fewer inherited genetic diseases, they are prone to some health problems. They may suffer from hip dysplasia and ear infections. No matter what breed you own, make sure to get regular vet checkups to ensure their well-being.
Life Expectancy
Kangals have a life expectancy of 11 to 13 years. Central Asian Shepherd dogs typically have a longer lifespan. They can stay with you for up to 10 to 15 years.
Exercise Needs
Kangal dogs require at least two hours of daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation. They can run at a speed of 30mph, so running can give them a good workout. Anatolian Shepherds have higher exercise needs than CASDs.
Despite being a low-energy dog, Central Asian Shepherds possess endurance and stamina for running and hiking. They need at least one hour of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Central Asian Shepherd dogs can also run at very high speeds.
Conclusion
Both the Alabai and Kangals are strong guard dogs with an intimidating presence. Kangals are taller than Alabai, have a more refined facial structure, and have the strongest bite force among all dog breeds.
Both Alabai and Kangal dogs are gentle with kids and loyal to their families, but Kangals are more family-oriented. Kangals are calmer and controlled. They are also relatively easy to train, while Alabai are stronger-willed and harder to train.
Kangal is a healthier breed that does not suffer from common canine diseases like hip dysplasia and bloat. Central Asian Shepherd dogs tend to live a little longer than Kangals, but the life expectancy of a dog depends on their quality of life. Kangals need more exercise than Alabai.
Both breeds are the epitome of strength, stamina, and endurance. The two breeds are great at protecting large properties, but Alabai take the lead in overall mass and stature.
You may go with Alabai if you want protection for large and less populated areas, while Kangal is better-suited for vast but active areas, like with livestock protection.
