The Aksaray Malaklisi is a very rare dog that originated from Turkey. Only seven breeders raise them, and just 100 dogs are exported to other countries. Breeders ensure that puppies are breastfed for the first 2 months of their life before being given a special diet that consists of leftovers from the butchers, dog food, and a mashed mix of barley, eggs, and milk. Breeders claim that this diet ensures that the dog grows quickly and remains free from various diseases.

Potential buyers are vetted by the breeders, and the best examples of the breed are sent abroad, making it very difficult for prospective buyers to acquire one.

Breed Overview

The Aksaray Malaklisi is a livestock guardian dog that is only bred to be used as a working dog, and they’re rarely seen outside the Aksaray region of Turkey. Although the giant pup can learn to follow orders from their handler, they don’t generally listen to other people and can be aggressive to other dogs. They may also be aggressive with people they view as a threat.

The breed is not recognized by any kennel clubs, but breeders have a strict regime and diet that must be adhered to to ensure the dog retains their huge form and good health. They have a lifespan of up to 15 years, which is longer than most giant breeds, and this is said to be because of their diet.

Below, you will find more information about this rare, intriguing breed, but they are so rare that you are unlikely to ever see one or have the opportunity to work with one.

Aksaray Malaklisi Characteristics

Aksaray Malaklisi Puppies

The Aksaray Malaklisi is a working dog primarily used as a livestock guardian to protect against predators and thieves. Puppies follow a very strict dietary regime to ensure that they grow to a very large size, and breeders claim that the diet also helps them stay healthy and avoid contracting and developing a range of illnesses. The diet initially consists of mother’s milk until they reach 2 months of age. At this stage, they are on a diet consisting of dog food, leftovers from the butchers, and a mix of barley, eggs, and milk.

Only seven farms in Aksaray are officially allowed to breed dogs and most of the puppies are retained in the area. Approximately 100 puppies are exported, and the number has grown in recent years. However, with just 100 puppies being exported to different countries, it is incredibly unlikely that you will be able to purchase one. Potential buyers are carefully vetted by the breeders, and an appropriate puppy is chosen. The cost of the puppies is estimated to be as much as $4,000.

The puppies grow quickly, will become independent early on, and must be trained from a very young age.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Aksaray Malaklisi

The Aksaray Malaklisi is a working dog used specifically as a guard dog to protect livestock. Because of their size and ferocity, they are not generally considered pet dogs.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🧑‍🧑‍🧒

The Aksaray Malaklisi is not considered a good pet for families and is not a good dog for families with children. Accidental injuries are highly likely if the dog interacts with tiny kids, and the headstrong guardian will typically only take commands from their handler. They can’t tolerate an apartment and don’t do well when kept indoors, preferring a life outdoors.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

As a livestock guardian, the Aksaray Malaklisi needs to be comfortable around farm animals. However, they can be aggressive with other dogs, especially those of the same sex, and they’re unlikely to get along with cats or other small pets.

Things to Know When Owning an Aksaray Malaklisi:

The Aksaray Malaklisi is a working dog, rather than a pet. If you take one on as a livestock guardian for your farm or ranch, you must ensure that they are well cared for.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

Once the dog reaches adulthood, they can be fed commercial dog food, but they need a considerable amount of food. If you serve dry food, expect to feed them at least 5 cups of high-quality kibble per day. You should also ensure that the dog has access to fresh water.

Exercise 🐕

The Malaklisi is a strong dog, but they don’t need as much exercise as other massive canines. You should provide at least an hour of exercise a day. They enjoy daily walks but also like jogging with you and playing games in the yard.

Training 🎾

Generally, the Aksaray Malaklisi is an independent dog that requires very little human intervention, besides training. This independent streak makes them difficult to train, and they typically only follow the commands of one person. You shouldn’t expect them to listen to other people, including the other members of your family. If you intend to keep the Malaklisi as a pet, they must be socialized at a very young age to ensure that they don’t view strangers or other animals as threats.

Grooming ✂️

The Malaklisi does not require much grooming and is fairly self-sufficient. However, you can brush them a couple of times a week to remove loose hair. Also, check inside their ears regularly. If the dog runs on abrasive surfaces like concrete, they shouldn’t need claw trimming as frequently as an inside dog. However, they need to have their teeth brushed at least two or three times weekly to prevent dental issues.

Health & Conditions 🏥

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.

Male vs Female

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.

3 Little-Known Facts About The Aksaray Malaklisi

1. It Is One of the Largest Breeds In the World

It is hardly surprising that the 200+ pound Aksaray Malaklisi is likely one of the biggest dogs in the world. The English Mastiff is often described as the heaviest breed, and they weigh around the same as the Malaklisi. The Malaklisi is bred to be enormous, and through selective breeding, they have retained their massive size.

2. It Is Rarely Kept as a Pet

The Malaklisi is a working dog. They’re a livestock guardian who protects the animals from predators and would-be thieves. They can be aggressive to other dogs and potentially even with people, which means that they aren’t suitable pets for most owners. Only an experienced handler can train and care for the Malaklisi effectively.

3. It Is Not Officially Recognized by Kennel Clubs

There are so few examples of the breed outside the dog’s breeding program that they have not been officially recognized by any kennel club. This may change in the future, and it certainly hasn’t hampered the price of the Malaklisi, but for now, they can’t be shown or exhibited in official shows.

Summary

The Aksaray Malaklisi is a rare breed that hails from an area of Turkey where they are bred and kept as a livestock guardian. They are one of the largest dogs in the world and are known for their exceptional guarding skills. 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. Therefore, they’re more suitable for experienced dog owners.

See Also: 

• Largest Dog Breeds (with Pictures)
• Types of Giant Dog Breeds (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: Cynoclub, Shutterstock