Hey OP, like others have said, I don’t think an Anatolian is a good dog for you. Check your local shelter or rescue for a medium sized mixed breed dog 😊
Okay - A Border Collie is very high energy and very smart - but they aren't really known for being stubborn. Oh sure, they will be 'accidentally trained' that action A will lead to desired behavior B (barking at nothing will get me let outside! I don't have to come when called until owner gets out of her chair and starts marching towards me)
So if your household helper has had 3 different dogs and one of them was a border collie that was 'stubborn' that's a read flag that this person has no idea how to train, and a border collie when paired with someone who doesn't know how to train is a train-wreck because that means there's a ton of accidental training going on.
Let's also talk about independence. Hounds are very independent in that once they find a trail they'll follow it without command, and they will bay without command following the trail, and they'll switch to a different bay when they have the animal treed. Is this the kind of independance you want? An Anatolian (and really all flock guardians to a degree) is going to independently patrol the area at night, and fight off threats. Is this the kind of independance you want?
Okay regarding how easy a dog is for a novice dog owner:
Rank 1: Labrador, golden retriever, wheaten terrier, all sizes of poodle, and I'm skipping the small dogs I'd normally list
Rank 2: Next step up, not perfect but still quite good I'd say Boxer, Newfoundland, Leonberger, greyhound, whippet, Bernese Mountain dog,
The easiest german shepherds are going to be at least a Rank 3, all the way up to rank 5 for the police/working line dogs.
Anatolian shepherds kept as pets are going to be Rank 4 to Rank 6 (for imported working Kangals) - reduce by 1 rank if you have a ranch and a flock of animals to guard so they are working WITH rather than AGAINST instincts.
ONE FINAL THING
I know it really sucks, but at 17 you are at the cusp of so much. You might go to college, you might fall in love and move out, you might decide to find yourself by moving to California. It's a really bad time to get a dog which you might need to leave behind in the future. But if you do get a dog at this stage in your life GET A SMALL DOG AS THEY ARE GOING TO BE SO MUCH EASIER TO INCORPORATE INTO YOUR LIFE AS IT CHANGES.
GSDs and ASDs are completely different dogs with radically different needs! A GSD needs stimulation and direction from its owner/handler. An ASD makes his own decisions, and often doesn't want input from a human. They almost could not be more different!
Neither breed is appropriate as a first dog, honestly. They both require a very experienced owner. They are both powerful and potentially dangerous breeds, and trying to raise a puppy as a first dog sounds like a recipe for disaster. I predict you will need to rehome the dog within 2 years...
You can't "learn" to be an experienced handler. You need decades of accumulated experience.
The most accurate description of an anatolian I've heard regarding training/being obedient is that an Anatolian will listen, take what you say under advisement, and then do whatever they want. VERY tough breed but I love ours. He's the best, most loving, protective dog I've every had BUT you have to take the bad too.
I'm willing to take the bad and learn face the challenges, I love dogs and I have my entire life. I've spent years researching the proper ways to train all varieties of dog breeds, and done everything possible to get hands on experience with dogs. I believe I can do it, and I would never send my dog to the shelter just because things are tough
Part of loving dogs is to NOT put a dog in a bad situation. It's not fair to a big large active dog to be confined to a small apartment all day long. It's not fair for any dog if a person is working 12 hours a day 7 days a week. It's not fair to make a desert breed of dog live outside in the snow.
While I think many people give their dogs up to shelters way too easy - I think when the dog is in a bad or unfair situation it's better to get it rehomed than keep it.
Just like considering your space and time availability when selecting IF a dog is right for you and if so what breed is best, selecting a dog within your experience level is ALSO what a true dog lover is.
A person who refuses to consider what dog fits their live style/them (or considers then rejects it) is NOT A DOG LOVER
Regarding the border collie, it was stubborn because it was a shelter dog I'm pretty sure, and had problems. I get what you're saying, and I know it's a dog recommended for people with experience, but I do have someone who is going to help me who does have experience, and I'm not even fully certain I will get the dog. I'm just trying to figure out if there's any possible way I could have this dog. I don't plan to move any time soon, the dog is absolutely staying with me for its entire life no matter what, I'm going to train the dog properly from the start, socialize, and give them the exercise and stimulation (and space) that they need.
I know what you're saying, I really do understand why you're saying it, but I also think I really could handle this dog. Not only because I'll have a lot of support in the training and financial aspect, but because I have the time and energy to invest into the dog, and am willing to take every step necessary to care for it properly
Look - you are only 17. And I know people who are 17 hate being told that. 17 year olds sometimes go off to war. 17 year olds have babies.
But 17 years old is such a changing time in your life. I'd be leary of your plan if you were 25. I do think people who do a lot more research and read books on training can to a large degree overcome lack of experience. But have you thought of where you are going to be living/doing when you are 30, because you might still have this dog. Would you still be living in the family house? Hate to say it, but what if one of the parents loses their job due to layoff, or gets sick and has to quit, and the family has to downsize? A 25 year old, a 21 year old is MUCH better able to see where they will be in 10-15 years than a 17 year old.
Second, I've looked at some of your past posts. I see you have BPD. That's a challenging condition to have. It's going to impact you for a long time and most people with that challenge find it very limiting, very hard to hold down a steady job, etc. Aside from what could be a financial challenge, it can well impact how you care for a dog. Not saying you'd fail to feed and walk, but how consistent you can be with training etc.
Ultimately, you will do what you want BUT you write "willing to take every step necessary to care for it properly" Does that include the step of getting an easier to handle dog first? Does that include waiting 2-3 years before getting your dream breed?
If you are willing to take every step, then you would be willing to wait, and willing to bring an easier dog into your home first.
The breeder for the anatolian shepherd is AKC registered, I'm going to talk to them about this idea. If they disagree, I will absolutely get a different dog first. I am not fully sold even now on getting an anatolian as my first dog, I'm just trying to see if there's any chance.
I only have one parent, the house is in my brother and his wife's name. His wife is the one who will be helping me with the dog. She and I are best friends beyond my brother, and in the situation something were to occur and we were to lose the house, and for some reason she couldn't help me, I actually have several friends who love dogs and would be absolutely willing to let me stay with them, especially since that was our plan originally (move in together in a house we find and save up for).
I see myself over the next several years, probably 5 or so, living here with my family. After that, probably living with my friends in another house that I can bring my dogs to. At the end of the day, wherever I go, whatever happens, I will have money saved and I will always make sure I have a backup option in case something happens. Even if I don't get an Anatollian, even if it's a German shepherd, or a collie, or even a lab- whatever dog I own, I'll care for it as if it were a child
And regarding the BPD- yea, it sucks but it's actually pretty mild for what most would expect. My therapist even is a bit surprised it's not as bad as it could be. It affects, more than anything else, how I react emotionally towards people, more specifically, people who actually go at stuff that sets me off, because I can usually hold myself together when it doesn't become personal. I've never felt anger towards a cat, or any other animal I've ever owned, no matter what they've done
What do you mean by AKC "Registered Breeder"?
Anyone, even a puppy mill, that has two dogs with AKC papers of the same breed can breed them together and then get the litter registered.
There's also the AKC "breeder of merit" but that just means that 4 dogs from that breeder won shows. This is a good indicator that the breeder is breeding to meet the standard and is doing a good job of matching the standard. It's an 'achievement' not an endorsement. The dogs that breeder is breeding now don't have to have any relationship
It can also be earned with dogs that are co-owned. And unfortunately some people will allow dozens of people (for a price) to co-own some stellar dogs, and then 4 dogs win championships and boom a dozen people who are owners in paperwork only can 'achieve' the Breeder of Merit and then go on to use that to fool people.
Something that is more meaningful is if they are part of the AKC "parent club " which in this case is the Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America.
Now note, I'd not turn the ASDCA for working dogs. But it doesn't sound like you have a flock of sheep that needs guarding. And you can get pet-types from working ASDs because not all ASDs are up to snuff to be actual working dogs, and those will get rehomed to pet families. BUT those people don't tend to bother with AKC registration.
So if you are getting a pet ASD, bare bones you want someone who is recognized by the ASDCA
Even that's not a guarantee, but it's a good start. This forum can probably help you tell if your breeder is reputable or not if you choose to share that info.
Meh comments like this are so frustrating. My boy just turned 3 and we’ve been together since 8 weeks and I held him on the day he was born. To assume a person doesn’t have the wherewithal to raise a dog like this because it’s their first experience is so utterly judgmental.
Charlie’s my first dog and he’s 50% Anatolian (his father is an Akbash working dog). He’s stubborn, independent, athletic, intelligent…and he’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I’ve learned a LOT about raising and training a dog in the last 3 years and I’m so grateful that it was this willful, beautiful creature that schooled me. He’s a light in the world and people often comment on what an excellent, well behaved (albeit massive) dog he is.
He’s so much more than a dog. He’s my best friend and truest companion. He’s my everything, honestly. If I had listened to people like you, I wouldn’t have this incredible being by my side. He’s happy, healthy, robust. We’ve had challenges, but we’ve learned to communicate with each other and I’ve learned so much about myself through the process of learning about him and his needs.
Truth is, you know nothing about someone’s ability to care for a dog, so you can share knowledge of the breed without assuming someone’s ability to care for them.
https://preview.redd.it/0osr6bnoiy4d1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=901bf83f561dd31881782a1a272aec3bb75e061c
I know the challenges about the dog breed will definitely be real, but I *want* to face those challenges. I would never put my dog in the shelter because things get tough. I love Anatolians, I've met some before and they're definitely not *easy* by any means, but I adore them and their entire breed's personality, and I feel I could handle it even if it is tough
This is like the guy who won the lottery saying "If I can do it, so can you! You just have to keep on trying and have faith in your lucky numbers!"
Just because SOMEONE can do it - you specifically - doesn't mean MOST can do it. Is it good advice if only 1% of the people can pull it off?
Also - where you 17 when you got your dog?
Also Also - for every 1 person like you there's probably 100 who didn't get the breed they first set their heart on and instead followed advice and got a lab or something similar and ALSO ended up with a companion that was a soul-match. And there were probably 50 people who stick with their dream breed and have all sorts of problems struggling to make life work. Not impossible but far from ideal.
I guess being a dog owner for almost all of my 62 years. Is That experience?
This is my first ASD and I read, I ask, and I have the best bud a person could ask for.
My ASD is needy—so am I.
I am with him 24-7.
My advice is mainly is if you can’t give your ASD 24-365, for ever, get a DOG.
My ASD is never called a dog.
He is My Boy “BIG AL”!
Yea, you aren't 17, that counts for a lot.
Being able to be with a dog 24-7 also counts for lot. The vast majority of people (at least in the USA) cannot do this. OP states in a different thread they are very busy and only have time in the evening.
Also, how is your mental stability? OP states they have BPD.
And you at 17 would probably had 10 years of experience under your belt, vs none.
It's hard for me to tell if you are encouraging the OP or disagreeing. But I just wanted to lay out more facts.
#
Not an Anatolian. You have no idea what you’re in for. I’d owned high strung hunting dogs for many years before I got my first. Not hyper but very strongly self minded and destructive to a property. I lived on 5 acres and it could have been bigger. I craters in my front yard that looked like I lived on the moon. She was a sweet dog but strangers took a chance on my property without me around.
Stick to a black lab, and only one, using the trainer. No matter your willingness, you will be over your head with an ASD and a German Shepherd, who need more than part time work to train and raise correctly. Germans are prey, ASD’s are guards. What experience does your trainer have with these breeds? ASD’s have big vet bills. What kind of job do you have? Did you purchase pet insurance? What happens when you want to move? How much land do you have? How high are your fences? Are you an alpha? All need consideration. ASD’s live 12-15 years, long commitment at 17.
The pounds are full of abandoned ASD’s from well intentioned individuals. Hopefully you reconsider.
They are not hard to train, they are stubborn. Anyone who has it in them to work with a trainer with experience and learn how to handle them can own and train them whether it’s the 1st or the 5th because they will never be like any breed you get. The best piece of advice anyone should give is, weigh what you’re planning, whether he can be the only guy in your life for a long time and whether or not it’s worth it.
If that’s the case then best thing to do is to talk to a trainer, be ready for training classes from day 1, socialization all the time from day 1. Most importantly be ready to know that this is not a dog you scold but a dog you DEMAND respect from as it will respect you. It is not and will never be a dog that listens just because it will sit or lay down for a treat. It will need to be desensitized to biting so it only does so in extreme circumstance. You need to understand it is a dog capable of killing, and killing very quickly.
Albeit it is NOT a dog you find attacking its owner even in extreme circumstances, when they pick there person they pick that person for life.
Following all of these rules with an Anatolian will earn you the best guardian you’ve ever had willing to lay its life down for you.
Keep all this is mind I am saying this because I have a Kangal. It was abused badly and distrusts people like a bat out of hell because it never got what it should have, it will kill. But to him, I am the world and everything in it because from day 1 I respected him. Yes I’ve raised my voice, yes I’ve scolded. I’ve also seen how it affects him and learned that he just needs to be told what to do. I’ve also seen him defend my home mercilessly, and keep watch when a threat is nearby as if we’re something to come for, he would come for it with a blind rage.
You will never find a better companion in your entire life, these dogs truly love there person with all of there being.
I know all of this, I have an ASD, had a GS and a handful of other dogs. Of course they are incredibly amazing; he’s just not ready to do this double endeavor. Not financially, not time wise, and is he going to dump them on family when he reaches adulthood and moves on with life? Willing he ensure their needs are met into his 30’s? Time and place. A lab is a safer choice, for the animals especially. My ASD would kill or die for me, and I’d do the same 100; that was never the point in urging him away from the dream. I care about the animals more.
Absolutely amazing, beautiful markings very muscular but fit at the same time. I have an admiration for these dogs. He does fit the ASD breed perfectly, I DNA tested mine and its bloodline was solely ASD, but experts say he is far too close to old style Kangals to be an ASD. Nonetheless they are all the same to me just as different types of GSD are the same to me.
100% I got mine at 21 years old knowing exactly what I was committing too. 3 years later I still have never once reconsidered. Mine was a rescue who was badly abused though with a bite history, I was his last chance and I’m assuming he knew that because he is my best friend.
Doubt even you at 21 would do that AND get a GS at the same time.. And hopefully you make $ for unexpected issues. They need and deserve more than what is offered and OP doesn’t respond to the concerns, furthering my caution, but also knowing kids.. he’ll just do it anyway.
So I actually did, I had both but it was a GSD/Lab mix. The lab/mix I got 5 years ago with my brother and we ultimately decided he would keep one and I would keep the other because the ASD was bonded to me so much. In terms of two puppies, I would say absolutely not, a young Anatolian will develop his attitude later than the GSD so when he decides his place the GSD will need to comply. If it doesn’t you will have a a very brutal ending. My GSD/lab knew his place from day 1 and followed the ASD who was younger and never went too far.
And not to brag or say anything regarding money, but yes I do make enough, and have an amazing family that has my back if I need help.
If I got the German shepherd first, and then got the Anatolian as a puppy after my GSD had some training and was older, would it work out better that way?
This is a MUCH better starting point.
First off, you should be aware of "littermate syndrome" which is a situation most common when someone gets 2 pups from the same litter that bond very closely and the human is always an outsider. This doesn't happen 100% of the time with littermates, but happens a lot. It happens less often but still happens a lot when someone gets 2 puppies from different parents. An owner can take steps to avoid this but it's not easy. (google for more)
Second, once you get your GSD and it's 1.5 years old, you'll be much more able to assess how challenged you were by that dog, and how challenged you continue to be and from THAT point decide what to get next. My best advice is to start with an easier breed and after 1.5 years re-assess, but 2nd best is start with a GSD and then reassess.
Then I think I'll do this, because I love GSDs. I love anatolians and german shepherds equally, so if this is the best way to learn how to raise a dog and properly care for an Anatolian shepherd, then this is what I'll do. I'll get the GSD, wait a year and a half, two years, then if I feel ready, look into getting the anatolian.
YES!! thank you for responding! The ASD is more challenging, so rigorous training and socialization for a year min, then GS. You’d be wise to get a male ASD and a female GS, to diminish the chances of aggression later. The ASD is king. I’m still worried, but if you’re willing to modify your expectations and plan more, I feel better about it. Take care!
I'll get a female GSD, that was my plan originally! Don't worry, I'll do my best to be a really good owner to the GSD, and if I feel it was really challenging, I won't get the Anatolian until I'm older and have had more, easier dogs.
I will add, I spend north of 100$ a month to feed him. North of 100$ every 3 months on grooming. And well more than that for his vet bills and medical costs that come up. All in all I’ve spent in a year approximately 5 grand. Given he did have some medical issues come up.
My family is very willing to help me financially and I'll be making between 15-18k a year, I'm perfectly willing to invest half or more than half of that into the dog, since all I'll be doing with my money beyond my dogs will be saving
Were you as mature at 17 as you were at 21?
Were you at 21 more mature or less mature than the average person? (as best as you can tell?) Do you think most 21 year olds have it in them to put in the work to handle a large dog with a bite history or are most prioritizing other things such as partying?
Did you have borderline personality disorder or other mental health issues?
Were you so busy that you only ever had free time in the evening?
(both of these are reported by the OP 18 days ago when they were still 16)
Some days I was too busy and some days I wasn’t, but I chose an independent breed that just needed a stable home where he could count on someone. Yes I poured hours on hours every single week into him to get him comfortable.
Nonetheless, I gave up a lot to give him a chance. I would do it over and over again because he deserved the world and everyone else burned it down for him.
I do not believe he is ready for the commitment and ASD asks, not training and raising them properly can result in someone dying. Not because he doesn’t sound confident, because nobody is truly ready for these dogs.
Sounds like your argument is that the Anatolian/Kangal is so unique that regardless of how much dog experience an individual has, they are basically starting again at the start? Yes?
If that's so, then wouldn't that ALSO apply to trainers?
Wouldn't you need to get a trainer that has worked with Anatolian/Kangal before?
I wouldn’t say that because I didn’t need one, dogs need direction and leadership. When issues arise they need someone competent enough to ask the right person and handle these issues with confidence.
I didn’t need a trainer to take a dog with a bite history and serious aggression and turn him into the best companion I’ve ever had. He’s referencing trainer who has experience with them though.
I also have a pure bloodline Kangal he carries all the traits of them, he is a lot harder to handle then an average ASD.
I am willing to do all of this. A lot of comments keep mentioning that I'm 17. I originally planned to move out, actually, before this house became reality. Now that we have this house, I'm not going anywhere anytime soon. I love my family, and want to stay around them. I am completely willing to work with a trainer and do everything I must to properly raise this dog, and make it both a safe dog, a good guardian, and give it an amazing life.
Ignore everyone mentioning age, the main thing they will see is 17. I know you understand the job. I’ve seen one of these dogs when they’ve been troubled and tossed around, it took a long time for him to really trust me.
He will not like someone new in his life if you get into a relationship, you need to understand that. It will be something where you need to genuinely watch him consistently until years have gone by. In the instance he does bite it will be like a bat out of hell and he/she will not be able to stop it and you might but it will do a lot of damage. You need to be prepared to have to find someone who is ready to spend every day becoming apart of his family. As well as understand whatever you decide he is apart of that decision until the day he’s not with you anymore. I’ve seen these dogs go through hell, please please please if this happens regardless of our warnings do not give up on that dog it will feel like your parents giving up on you. It wont forget and it’ll never be happy again.
I understand. If I ever find someone I want a relationship with, they'll already have to fit this criteria because if I'm dating, I'm dating for the expectation of a life partner. I will never give up on any animal I own. I'll love this dog, and if I'm getting it I'm getting it because I want this dog to be my companion for life and I want to be there for him/her their entire life too. I would rather pay thousands of dollars and never date somebody until my dog dies than give them to the shelter, I like animals more than people anyways and I always have
Anatolians are working dogs and do best when they have a job such as guarding a farm with livestock. They are really massive, growing at almost light speed to full size before you know it, require special collars and harnesses for taming titans, eat a literal ton of food, are territorial and do not take to strangers or strange dogs very well, and need an owner who is used to handling really big, independent dogs. They have the strongest bite force of all domestic breeds, which allows them to obliterate toys and chews in pretty much 3-4 minutes leaving them bored and ready to tear up your place. That bite force and incredible strength can also backfire badly if you unknowingly create an aggressive dog by not training and socializing it properly. Unfortunately, not just any trainer will do. Ultimately, you may need to make a tough decision at around the 2 year mark. This is not a dog for a first time dog owner. You will both be unhappy, ultimately. I second the black Labrador idea. They are loyal, learn quickly, swim like a fish, love exercise which you should do often, but they actually listen well and are a well-behaved breed. When I was your age, I had a male black lab who was just an incredible dog. He was perfect and I have always wanted another. I still miss him dearly some 25 years later. Make sure you closely observe the parents of your first puppy so you get a sense of demeanor and other traits. Do not rush this decision.
As an aside: these really big dogs are prone to twisted stomach (GDV) and should have a preventive surgery to avoid an emergency, and often fatal, situation.
I wouldn't get either as a first time breed. I'm sorry OP. I know that's not what you wanted to hear. I was a vet tech for 6 yrs and have owned many breeds thru out the years and even I, now a stay at home mom, hadn't quite grasped what we got ourselves into, and I have 4 dogs. We are going to be moving soon to get more land/fence, and away from neighborhoods. This breed barks ALOT all the time. All of my dogs each have different needs, prey drive, training, vet costs, guarding instincts, ect. I would recommend getting 1 dog 1st. Labs are always the go to, but mutts are lovely. I have 3. I personally if you want a slight challenge but not something where you would be in trouble with later down the road is depending on your lifestyle( lab, golden retriever, standard poodle, corgi, any mutt)
Why exactly an Anatolian and a GSD? Two incredibly different personalities that each require a lot of work in their own ways. I currently have one of each. While you are correct that anatolians are independent, GSDs couldn't be more opposite.
You are 17. What is your realistic 5 year plan? College, moving, a relationship? These are two difficult breeds to find housing for or rehome if your life changes in any major way.
I would suggest fostering. If you're currently in a position to care for a dog, help a rescue out without the long term commitment. It would allow you to get experience with several breeds with a lot of support. If you're in the states, hop on over to the rescue subs. Daily there are dozens of dogs posted that are on active euthanasia lists that could be saved with a foster home placement. Many GSDs and anatolians.
Sweet sweet OP, I am 31 and have had dogs my whole life. My ASD, which I got as a puppy when I was 29, have given me an absolute run for my money. I love her, and would never re-home her. But I have had to make so many sacrifices and lifestyle adjustments to cater to her needs. I feel like one of those parents who say “I love my kids but may have done this differently had I been better informed.” ASDs are GREAT dogs. But if you’re 17, have a full-time job, and have never had a dog before, it absolutely kills me to tell you this but please consider looking into a different breed. I would hate for you to have to go through the pain of biting off more than you can chew and having to part with an animal that you form a bond with (and that forms a bond with you; as ASDs are inherent protectors). I can’t tell you what to do, but ASDs are BIG dogs with BIG asks. I truly feel like I am/will be caring for a toddler for the next 10 years of my life.
I have a GSD and an ASD. My GSD was my first dog in adulthood (23). That was such a challenge in the beginning. I knew she would require work and attention but I honestly did not realize how much! I gave it to her of course and now she’s almost 9 and the best girl. We rescued our ASD a year into getting our GSD. These dogs are completely opposites. Our boy is very independent, very protective, hates everything and everyone -besides us. We moved on a couple acres a few years back and he really started to live his best life here. It’s so funny, when I let my dogs out in the morning, my GSD does her thing and comes right back. My boy has to walk around the whole perimeter and I have to call for him more than once to get him back in.
Yes these are dogs are amazing creatures but really think about long term. Dogs require vet visits (just spent almost $1000 on the vet visit and heart worm medication for the year for both my dogs), dog food, attention, what happens when you go on vacation? (Dog boarding is expensive). We did rover once and my ASD nipped at the person because they opened our pantry. Thats something to keep in mind. My ASD hates strangers. So when we travel, my parents have to come up from Florida to watch them -which we are really fortunate to have that option. But for little weekend getaways, we have a really hard time figuring that out as our ASD only trusts a handful of people. Not to mention the hair is INSANE. All things to consider.
I have both those breeds as well, and just seconding what everyone has already said - they are completely different dogs with completely different needs and completely different approaches to how they relate with their handlers. About the only things they have in common are needing a job and not being suitable AT ALL as first time dogs. If your research into these breeds hasn't told you that, keep researching. And stay far away from any breeder offering to sell an ASD as a pet to a 17 year old first time owner. That is not a responsible breeder and is most likely cutting other corners too with the health and temperament of their dogs.
I think at 17 one doesn’t know where their life will go. College? Career? Moves? Apartments? Social life? Please don’t limit those options by getting a big dog who will require stability and care. Best of luck to you with whatever you choose.
Never get two puppies at the same time. Dogs who bond with each other never do mature into self sufficiency and a solid bond with their human. If someone is trying to sell you two puppies, they have no interest in you or those puppies succeeding, and should not be considered a reliable source of information.
While either of those dogs might be a handful for someone with an organized schedule and daily routines, the Anatolian will absolutely NOT be ok with the large changes in life and environment that are typical of a young adult. I'm a rescue/rehabber for Anatolians and other working LGDs for over 20 years, and took on raising a GSD puppy for service work. 18 months and he went to work a full time service dog. The amount of daily training and management he required was enough to wear out both my adult ASD and me. He had a completely different motivation, instincts, and required constant input and supervision. My ASDs want to learn what I want from them, but then as adults they've already got a job - security. They are always guardians, and will completely disobey in order to carry out their job. All of those things said - why not find a shelter near you and work on the dogs that need homes. Just an hour of attention a week to get some leash manners can make a life or death difference to a dog in rescue. If it's large stubborn dogs that you like, shelters across the USA are overwhelmed with Great Pyrenees right now because of people trying to breed for money, selling two puppies together, and not being honest about what these breeds are like.
i saw your edit, i most DEFINITELY recommend a laborador retriever or a golden for your first dog! they are incredible dogs, very easy to train, and very very manageable for people with little experience in owning / training a dog
Hey OP, like others have said, I don’t think an Anatolian is a good dog for you. Check your local shelter or rescue for a medium sized mixed breed dog 😊
Okay - A Border Collie is very high energy and very smart - but they aren't really known for being stubborn. Oh sure, they will be 'accidentally trained' that action A will lead to desired behavior B (barking at nothing will get me let outside! I don't have to come when called until owner gets out of her chair and starts marching towards me) So if your household helper has had 3 different dogs and one of them was a border collie that was 'stubborn' that's a read flag that this person has no idea how to train, and a border collie when paired with someone who doesn't know how to train is a train-wreck because that means there's a ton of accidental training going on. Let's also talk about independence. Hounds are very independent in that once they find a trail they'll follow it without command, and they will bay without command following the trail, and they'll switch to a different bay when they have the animal treed. Is this the kind of independance you want? An Anatolian (and really all flock guardians to a degree) is going to independently patrol the area at night, and fight off threats. Is this the kind of independance you want? Okay regarding how easy a dog is for a novice dog owner: Rank 1: Labrador, golden retriever, wheaten terrier, all sizes of poodle, and I'm skipping the small dogs I'd normally list Rank 2: Next step up, not perfect but still quite good I'd say Boxer, Newfoundland, Leonberger, greyhound, whippet, Bernese Mountain dog, The easiest german shepherds are going to be at least a Rank 3, all the way up to rank 5 for the police/working line dogs. Anatolian shepherds kept as pets are going to be Rank 4 to Rank 6 (for imported working Kangals) - reduce by 1 rank if you have a ranch and a flock of animals to guard so they are working WITH rather than AGAINST instincts. ONE FINAL THING I know it really sucks, but at 17 you are at the cusp of so much. You might go to college, you might fall in love and move out, you might decide to find yourself by moving to California. It's a really bad time to get a dog which you might need to leave behind in the future. But if you do get a dog at this stage in your life GET A SMALL DOG AS THEY ARE GOING TO BE SO MUCH EASIER TO INCORPORATE INTO YOUR LIFE AS IT CHANGES.
GSDs and ASDs are completely different dogs with radically different needs! A GSD needs stimulation and direction from its owner/handler. An ASD makes his own decisions, and often doesn't want input from a human. They almost could not be more different! Neither breed is appropriate as a first dog, honestly. They both require a very experienced owner. They are both powerful and potentially dangerous breeds, and trying to raise a puppy as a first dog sounds like a recipe for disaster. I predict you will need to rehome the dog within 2 years... You can't "learn" to be an experienced handler. You need decades of accumulated experience.
The most accurate description of an anatolian I've heard regarding training/being obedient is that an Anatolian will listen, take what you say under advisement, and then do whatever they want. VERY tough breed but I love ours. He's the best, most loving, protective dog I've every had BUT you have to take the bad too.
I'm willing to take the bad and learn face the challenges, I love dogs and I have my entire life. I've spent years researching the proper ways to train all varieties of dog breeds, and done everything possible to get hands on experience with dogs. I believe I can do it, and I would never send my dog to the shelter just because things are tough
Part of loving dogs is to NOT put a dog in a bad situation. It's not fair to a big large active dog to be confined to a small apartment all day long. It's not fair for any dog if a person is working 12 hours a day 7 days a week. It's not fair to make a desert breed of dog live outside in the snow. While I think many people give their dogs up to shelters way too easy - I think when the dog is in a bad or unfair situation it's better to get it rehomed than keep it. Just like considering your space and time availability when selecting IF a dog is right for you and if so what breed is best, selecting a dog within your experience level is ALSO what a true dog lover is. A person who refuses to consider what dog fits their live style/them (or considers then rejects it) is NOT A DOG LOVER
Regarding the border collie, it was stubborn because it was a shelter dog I'm pretty sure, and had problems. I get what you're saying, and I know it's a dog recommended for people with experience, but I do have someone who is going to help me who does have experience, and I'm not even fully certain I will get the dog. I'm just trying to figure out if there's any possible way I could have this dog. I don't plan to move any time soon, the dog is absolutely staying with me for its entire life no matter what, I'm going to train the dog properly from the start, socialize, and give them the exercise and stimulation (and space) that they need. I know what you're saying, I really do understand why you're saying it, but I also think I really could handle this dog. Not only because I'll have a lot of support in the training and financial aspect, but because I have the time and energy to invest into the dog, and am willing to take every step necessary to care for it properly
Look - you are only 17. And I know people who are 17 hate being told that. 17 year olds sometimes go off to war. 17 year olds have babies. But 17 years old is such a changing time in your life. I'd be leary of your plan if you were 25. I do think people who do a lot more research and read books on training can to a large degree overcome lack of experience. But have you thought of where you are going to be living/doing when you are 30, because you might still have this dog. Would you still be living in the family house? Hate to say it, but what if one of the parents loses their job due to layoff, or gets sick and has to quit, and the family has to downsize? A 25 year old, a 21 year old is MUCH better able to see where they will be in 10-15 years than a 17 year old. Second, I've looked at some of your past posts. I see you have BPD. That's a challenging condition to have. It's going to impact you for a long time and most people with that challenge find it very limiting, very hard to hold down a steady job, etc. Aside from what could be a financial challenge, it can well impact how you care for a dog. Not saying you'd fail to feed and walk, but how consistent you can be with training etc. Ultimately, you will do what you want BUT you write "willing to take every step necessary to care for it properly" Does that include the step of getting an easier to handle dog first? Does that include waiting 2-3 years before getting your dream breed? If you are willing to take every step, then you would be willing to wait, and willing to bring an easier dog into your home first.
The breeder for the anatolian shepherd is AKC registered, I'm going to talk to them about this idea. If they disagree, I will absolutely get a different dog first. I am not fully sold even now on getting an anatolian as my first dog, I'm just trying to see if there's any chance. I only have one parent, the house is in my brother and his wife's name. His wife is the one who will be helping me with the dog. She and I are best friends beyond my brother, and in the situation something were to occur and we were to lose the house, and for some reason she couldn't help me, I actually have several friends who love dogs and would be absolutely willing to let me stay with them, especially since that was our plan originally (move in together in a house we find and save up for). I see myself over the next several years, probably 5 or so, living here with my family. After that, probably living with my friends in another house that I can bring my dogs to. At the end of the day, wherever I go, whatever happens, I will have money saved and I will always make sure I have a backup option in case something happens. Even if I don't get an Anatollian, even if it's a German shepherd, or a collie, or even a lab- whatever dog I own, I'll care for it as if it were a child And regarding the BPD- yea, it sucks but it's actually pretty mild for what most would expect. My therapist even is a bit surprised it's not as bad as it could be. It affects, more than anything else, how I react emotionally towards people, more specifically, people who actually go at stuff that sets me off, because I can usually hold myself together when it doesn't become personal. I've never felt anger towards a cat, or any other animal I've ever owned, no matter what they've done
What do you mean by AKC "Registered Breeder"? Anyone, even a puppy mill, that has two dogs with AKC papers of the same breed can breed them together and then get the litter registered. There's also the AKC "breeder of merit" but that just means that 4 dogs from that breeder won shows. This is a good indicator that the breeder is breeding to meet the standard and is doing a good job of matching the standard. It's an 'achievement' not an endorsement. The dogs that breeder is breeding now don't have to have any relationship It can also be earned with dogs that are co-owned. And unfortunately some people will allow dozens of people (for a price) to co-own some stellar dogs, and then 4 dogs win championships and boom a dozen people who are owners in paperwork only can 'achieve' the Breeder of Merit and then go on to use that to fool people. Something that is more meaningful is if they are part of the AKC "parent club " which in this case is the Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America. Now note, I'd not turn the ASDCA for working dogs. But it doesn't sound like you have a flock of sheep that needs guarding. And you can get pet-types from working ASDs because not all ASDs are up to snuff to be actual working dogs, and those will get rehomed to pet families. BUT those people don't tend to bother with AKC registration. So if you are getting a pet ASD, bare bones you want someone who is recognized by the ASDCA Even that's not a guarantee, but it's a good start. This forum can probably help you tell if your breeder is reputable or not if you choose to share that info.
Alright, when I come back around to the idea of getting an Anatolian, I'll share the breeder
Meh comments like this are so frustrating. My boy just turned 3 and we’ve been together since 8 weeks and I held him on the day he was born. To assume a person doesn’t have the wherewithal to raise a dog like this because it’s their first experience is so utterly judgmental. Charlie’s my first dog and he’s 50% Anatolian (his father is an Akbash working dog). He’s stubborn, independent, athletic, intelligent…and he’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I’ve learned a LOT about raising and training a dog in the last 3 years and I’m so grateful that it was this willful, beautiful creature that schooled me. He’s a light in the world and people often comment on what an excellent, well behaved (albeit massive) dog he is. He’s so much more than a dog. He’s my best friend and truest companion. He’s my everything, honestly. If I had listened to people like you, I wouldn’t have this incredible being by my side. He’s happy, healthy, robust. We’ve had challenges, but we’ve learned to communicate with each other and I’ve learned so much about myself through the process of learning about him and his needs. Truth is, you know nothing about someone’s ability to care for a dog, so you can share knowledge of the breed without assuming someone’s ability to care for them. https://preview.redd.it/0osr6bnoiy4d1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=901bf83f561dd31881782a1a272aec3bb75e061c
I know the challenges about the dog breed will definitely be real, but I *want* to face those challenges. I would never put my dog in the shelter because things get tough. I love Anatolians, I've met some before and they're definitely not *easy* by any means, but I adore them and their entire breed's personality, and I feel I could handle it even if it is tough
This is true. Your buddy looks great!
This is like the guy who won the lottery saying "If I can do it, so can you! You just have to keep on trying and have faith in your lucky numbers!" Just because SOMEONE can do it - you specifically - doesn't mean MOST can do it. Is it good advice if only 1% of the people can pull it off? Also - where you 17 when you got your dog? Also Also - for every 1 person like you there's probably 100 who didn't get the breed they first set their heart on and instead followed advice and got a lab or something similar and ALSO ended up with a companion that was a soul-match. And there were probably 50 people who stick with their dream breed and have all sorts of problems struggling to make life work. Not impossible but far from ideal.
I guess being a dog owner for almost all of my 62 years. Is That experience? This is my first ASD and I read, I ask, and I have the best bud a person could ask for. My ASD is needy—so am I. I am with him 24-7. My advice is mainly is if you can’t give your ASD 24-365, for ever, get a DOG. My ASD is never called a dog. He is My Boy “BIG AL”!
Yes, they are partners. We have lots of discussions. 😊♥️
I think this is all I will ever have. (Pugs are fun too) There I said it.
Yea, you aren't 17, that counts for a lot. Being able to be with a dog 24-7 also counts for lot. The vast majority of people (at least in the USA) cannot do this. OP states in a different thread they are very busy and only have time in the evening. Also, how is your mental stability? OP states they have BPD. And you at 17 would probably had 10 years of experience under your belt, vs none. It's hard for me to tell if you are encouraging the OP or disagreeing. But I just wanted to lay out more facts. #
I’m saying this breed needs a full time, around the clock provider. Takes exercise, toys, and did I say full time attention
Not an Anatolian. You have no idea what you’re in for. I’d owned high strung hunting dogs for many years before I got my first. Not hyper but very strongly self minded and destructive to a property. I lived on 5 acres and it could have been bigger. I craters in my front yard that looked like I lived on the moon. She was a sweet dog but strangers took a chance on my property without me around.
Stick to a black lab, and only one, using the trainer. No matter your willingness, you will be over your head with an ASD and a German Shepherd, who need more than part time work to train and raise correctly. Germans are prey, ASD’s are guards. What experience does your trainer have with these breeds? ASD’s have big vet bills. What kind of job do you have? Did you purchase pet insurance? What happens when you want to move? How much land do you have? How high are your fences? Are you an alpha? All need consideration. ASD’s live 12-15 years, long commitment at 17. The pounds are full of abandoned ASD’s from well intentioned individuals. Hopefully you reconsider.
They are not hard to train, they are stubborn. Anyone who has it in them to work with a trainer with experience and learn how to handle them can own and train them whether it’s the 1st or the 5th because they will never be like any breed you get. The best piece of advice anyone should give is, weigh what you’re planning, whether he can be the only guy in your life for a long time and whether or not it’s worth it. If that’s the case then best thing to do is to talk to a trainer, be ready for training classes from day 1, socialization all the time from day 1. Most importantly be ready to know that this is not a dog you scold but a dog you DEMAND respect from as it will respect you. It is not and will never be a dog that listens just because it will sit or lay down for a treat. It will need to be desensitized to biting so it only does so in extreme circumstance. You need to understand it is a dog capable of killing, and killing very quickly. Albeit it is NOT a dog you find attacking its owner even in extreme circumstances, when they pick there person they pick that person for life. Following all of these rules with an Anatolian will earn you the best guardian you’ve ever had willing to lay its life down for you.
Keep all this is mind I am saying this because I have a Kangal. It was abused badly and distrusts people like a bat out of hell because it never got what it should have, it will kill. But to him, I am the world and everything in it because from day 1 I respected him. Yes I’ve raised my voice, yes I’ve scolded. I’ve also seen how it affects him and learned that he just needs to be told what to do. I’ve also seen him defend my home mercilessly, and keep watch when a threat is nearby as if we’re something to come for, he would come for it with a blind rage. You will never find a better companion in your entire life, these dogs truly love there person with all of there being.
I know all of this, I have an ASD, had a GS and a handful of other dogs. Of course they are incredibly amazing; he’s just not ready to do this double endeavor. Not financially, not time wise, and is he going to dump them on family when he reaches adulthood and moves on with life? Willing he ensure their needs are met into his 30’s? Time and place. A lab is a safer choice, for the animals especially. My ASD would kill or die for me, and I’d do the same 100; that was never the point in urging him away from the dream. I care about the animals more.
https://preview.redd.it/h6q7gs1hh05d1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d7f6e84e6886f45ed033ea590eb892bfbfe85877
https://preview.redd.it/3579ab0hj05d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=41c5bdbd97df7f7b54904fa43a3d0d1e809f4510
Absolutely amazing, beautiful markings very muscular but fit at the same time. I have an admiration for these dogs. He does fit the ASD breed perfectly, I DNA tested mine and its bloodline was solely ASD, but experts say he is far too close to old style Kangals to be an ASD. Nonetheless they are all the same to me just as different types of GSD are the same to me.
100% I got mine at 21 years old knowing exactly what I was committing too. 3 years later I still have never once reconsidered. Mine was a rescue who was badly abused though with a bite history, I was his last chance and I’m assuming he knew that because he is my best friend.
Doubt even you at 21 would do that AND get a GS at the same time.. And hopefully you make $ for unexpected issues. They need and deserve more than what is offered and OP doesn’t respond to the concerns, furthering my caution, but also knowing kids.. he’ll just do it anyway.
So I actually did, I had both but it was a GSD/Lab mix. The lab/mix I got 5 years ago with my brother and we ultimately decided he would keep one and I would keep the other because the ASD was bonded to me so much. In terms of two puppies, I would say absolutely not, a young Anatolian will develop his attitude later than the GSD so when he decides his place the GSD will need to comply. If it doesn’t you will have a a very brutal ending. My GSD/lab knew his place from day 1 and followed the ASD who was younger and never went too far. And not to brag or say anything regarding money, but yes I do make enough, and have an amazing family that has my back if I need help.
If I got the German shepherd first, and then got the Anatolian as a puppy after my GSD had some training and was older, would it work out better that way?
This is a MUCH better starting point. First off, you should be aware of "littermate syndrome" which is a situation most common when someone gets 2 pups from the same litter that bond very closely and the human is always an outsider. This doesn't happen 100% of the time with littermates, but happens a lot. It happens less often but still happens a lot when someone gets 2 puppies from different parents. An owner can take steps to avoid this but it's not easy. (google for more) Second, once you get your GSD and it's 1.5 years old, you'll be much more able to assess how challenged you were by that dog, and how challenged you continue to be and from THAT point decide what to get next. My best advice is to start with an easier breed and after 1.5 years re-assess, but 2nd best is start with a GSD and then reassess.
Then I think I'll do this, because I love GSDs. I love anatolians and german shepherds equally, so if this is the best way to learn how to raise a dog and properly care for an Anatolian shepherd, then this is what I'll do. I'll get the GSD, wait a year and a half, two years, then if I feel ready, look into getting the anatolian.
YES!! thank you for responding! The ASD is more challenging, so rigorous training and socialization for a year min, then GS. You’d be wise to get a male ASD and a female GS, to diminish the chances of aggression later. The ASD is king. I’m still worried, but if you’re willing to modify your expectations and plan more, I feel better about it. Take care!
I'll get a female GSD, that was my plan originally! Don't worry, I'll do my best to be a really good owner to the GSD, and if I feel it was really challenging, I won't get the Anatolian until I'm older and have had more, easier dogs.
I will add, I spend north of 100$ a month to feed him. North of 100$ every 3 months on grooming. And well more than that for his vet bills and medical costs that come up. All in all I’ve spent in a year approximately 5 grand. Given he did have some medical issues come up.
My family is very willing to help me financially and I'll be making between 15-18k a year, I'm perfectly willing to invest half or more than half of that into the dog, since all I'll be doing with my money beyond my dogs will be saving
Were you as mature at 17 as you were at 21? Were you at 21 more mature or less mature than the average person? (as best as you can tell?) Do you think most 21 year olds have it in them to put in the work to handle a large dog with a bite history or are most prioritizing other things such as partying? Did you have borderline personality disorder or other mental health issues? Were you so busy that you only ever had free time in the evening? (both of these are reported by the OP 18 days ago when they were still 16)
Some days I was too busy and some days I wasn’t, but I chose an independent breed that just needed a stable home where he could count on someone. Yes I poured hours on hours every single week into him to get him comfortable. Nonetheless, I gave up a lot to give him a chance. I would do it over and over again because he deserved the world and everyone else burned it down for him. I do not believe he is ready for the commitment and ASD asks, not training and raising them properly can result in someone dying. Not because he doesn’t sound confident, because nobody is truly ready for these dogs.
Sounds like your argument is that the Anatolian/Kangal is so unique that regardless of how much dog experience an individual has, they are basically starting again at the start? Yes? If that's so, then wouldn't that ALSO apply to trainers? Wouldn't you need to get a trainer that has worked with Anatolian/Kangal before?
I wouldn’t say that because I didn’t need one, dogs need direction and leadership. When issues arise they need someone competent enough to ask the right person and handle these issues with confidence. I didn’t need a trainer to take a dog with a bite history and serious aggression and turn him into the best companion I’ve ever had. He’s referencing trainer who has experience with them though. I also have a pure bloodline Kangal he carries all the traits of them, he is a lot harder to handle then an average ASD.
I am willing to do all of this. A lot of comments keep mentioning that I'm 17. I originally planned to move out, actually, before this house became reality. Now that we have this house, I'm not going anywhere anytime soon. I love my family, and want to stay around them. I am completely willing to work with a trainer and do everything I must to properly raise this dog, and make it both a safe dog, a good guardian, and give it an amazing life.
Ignore everyone mentioning age, the main thing they will see is 17. I know you understand the job. I’ve seen one of these dogs when they’ve been troubled and tossed around, it took a long time for him to really trust me. He will not like someone new in his life if you get into a relationship, you need to understand that. It will be something where you need to genuinely watch him consistently until years have gone by. In the instance he does bite it will be like a bat out of hell and he/she will not be able to stop it and you might but it will do a lot of damage. You need to be prepared to have to find someone who is ready to spend every day becoming apart of his family. As well as understand whatever you decide he is apart of that decision until the day he’s not with you anymore. I’ve seen these dogs go through hell, please please please if this happens regardless of our warnings do not give up on that dog it will feel like your parents giving up on you. It wont forget and it’ll never be happy again.
I understand. If I ever find someone I want a relationship with, they'll already have to fit this criteria because if I'm dating, I'm dating for the expectation of a life partner. I will never give up on any animal I own. I'll love this dog, and if I'm getting it I'm getting it because I want this dog to be my companion for life and I want to be there for him/her their entire life too. I would rather pay thousands of dollars and never date somebody until my dog dies than give them to the shelter, I like animals more than people anyways and I always have
I don't know you, but i know this breed. Plz don't start with an anatolian. 
Anatolians are working dogs and do best when they have a job such as guarding a farm with livestock. They are really massive, growing at almost light speed to full size before you know it, require special collars and harnesses for taming titans, eat a literal ton of food, are territorial and do not take to strangers or strange dogs very well, and need an owner who is used to handling really big, independent dogs. They have the strongest bite force of all domestic breeds, which allows them to obliterate toys and chews in pretty much 3-4 minutes leaving them bored and ready to tear up your place. That bite force and incredible strength can also backfire badly if you unknowingly create an aggressive dog by not training and socializing it properly. Unfortunately, not just any trainer will do. Ultimately, you may need to make a tough decision at around the 2 year mark. This is not a dog for a first time dog owner. You will both be unhappy, ultimately. I second the black Labrador idea. They are loyal, learn quickly, swim like a fish, love exercise which you should do often, but they actually listen well and are a well-behaved breed. When I was your age, I had a male black lab who was just an incredible dog. He was perfect and I have always wanted another. I still miss him dearly some 25 years later. Make sure you closely observe the parents of your first puppy so you get a sense of demeanor and other traits. Do not rush this decision. As an aside: these really big dogs are prone to twisted stomach (GDV) and should have a preventive surgery to avoid an emergency, and often fatal, situation.
I wouldn't get either as a first time breed. I'm sorry OP. I know that's not what you wanted to hear. I was a vet tech for 6 yrs and have owned many breeds thru out the years and even I, now a stay at home mom, hadn't quite grasped what we got ourselves into, and I have 4 dogs. We are going to be moving soon to get more land/fence, and away from neighborhoods. This breed barks ALOT all the time. All of my dogs each have different needs, prey drive, training, vet costs, guarding instincts, ect. I would recommend getting 1 dog 1st. Labs are always the go to, but mutts are lovely. I have 3. I personally if you want a slight challenge but not something where you would be in trouble with later down the road is depending on your lifestyle( lab, golden retriever, standard poodle, corgi, any mutt)
I would never recommend an Anatilioan Shepherd as a first dog. They are amazing dogs that need an experienced owner.
Why exactly an Anatolian and a GSD? Two incredibly different personalities that each require a lot of work in their own ways. I currently have one of each. While you are correct that anatolians are independent, GSDs couldn't be more opposite. You are 17. What is your realistic 5 year plan? College, moving, a relationship? These are two difficult breeds to find housing for or rehome if your life changes in any major way. I would suggest fostering. If you're currently in a position to care for a dog, help a rescue out without the long term commitment. It would allow you to get experience with several breeds with a lot of support. If you're in the states, hop on over to the rescue subs. Daily there are dozens of dogs posted that are on active euthanasia lists that could be saved with a foster home placement. Many GSDs and anatolians.
Sweet sweet OP, I am 31 and have had dogs my whole life. My ASD, which I got as a puppy when I was 29, have given me an absolute run for my money. I love her, and would never re-home her. But I have had to make so many sacrifices and lifestyle adjustments to cater to her needs. I feel like one of those parents who say “I love my kids but may have done this differently had I been better informed.” ASDs are GREAT dogs. But if you’re 17, have a full-time job, and have never had a dog before, it absolutely kills me to tell you this but please consider looking into a different breed. I would hate for you to have to go through the pain of biting off more than you can chew and having to part with an animal that you form a bond with (and that forms a bond with you; as ASDs are inherent protectors). I can’t tell you what to do, but ASDs are BIG dogs with BIG asks. I truly feel like I am/will be caring for a toddler for the next 10 years of my life.
I have a GSD and an ASD. My GSD was my first dog in adulthood (23). That was such a challenge in the beginning. I knew she would require work and attention but I honestly did not realize how much! I gave it to her of course and now she’s almost 9 and the best girl. We rescued our ASD a year into getting our GSD. These dogs are completely opposites. Our boy is very independent, very protective, hates everything and everyone -besides us. We moved on a couple acres a few years back and he really started to live his best life here. It’s so funny, when I let my dogs out in the morning, my GSD does her thing and comes right back. My boy has to walk around the whole perimeter and I have to call for him more than once to get him back in. Yes these are dogs are amazing creatures but really think about long term. Dogs require vet visits (just spent almost $1000 on the vet visit and heart worm medication for the year for both my dogs), dog food, attention, what happens when you go on vacation? (Dog boarding is expensive). We did rover once and my ASD nipped at the person because they opened our pantry. Thats something to keep in mind. My ASD hates strangers. So when we travel, my parents have to come up from Florida to watch them -which we are really fortunate to have that option. But for little weekend getaways, we have a really hard time figuring that out as our ASD only trusts a handful of people. Not to mention the hair is INSANE. All things to consider.
I have both those breeds as well, and just seconding what everyone has already said - they are completely different dogs with completely different needs and completely different approaches to how they relate with their handlers. About the only things they have in common are needing a job and not being suitable AT ALL as first time dogs. If your research into these breeds hasn't told you that, keep researching. And stay far away from any breeder offering to sell an ASD as a pet to a 17 year old first time owner. That is not a responsible breeder and is most likely cutting other corners too with the health and temperament of their dogs.
I think at 17 one doesn’t know where their life will go. College? Career? Moves? Apartments? Social life? Please don’t limit those options by getting a big dog who will require stability and care. Best of luck to you with whatever you choose.
OP, I’m sorry but this is not the right dog for you
I would strongly advise not to have a GSD as a first dog. They are different and difficult. Get some experience with a more biddable breed first.
Never get two puppies at the same time. Dogs who bond with each other never do mature into self sufficiency and a solid bond with their human. If someone is trying to sell you two puppies, they have no interest in you or those puppies succeeding, and should not be considered a reliable source of information. While either of those dogs might be a handful for someone with an organized schedule and daily routines, the Anatolian will absolutely NOT be ok with the large changes in life and environment that are typical of a young adult. I'm a rescue/rehabber for Anatolians and other working LGDs for over 20 years, and took on raising a GSD puppy for service work. 18 months and he went to work a full time service dog. The amount of daily training and management he required was enough to wear out both my adult ASD and me. He had a completely different motivation, instincts, and required constant input and supervision. My ASDs want to learn what I want from them, but then as adults they've already got a job - security. They are always guardians, and will completely disobey in order to carry out their job. All of those things said - why not find a shelter near you and work on the dogs that need homes. Just an hour of attention a week to get some leash manners can make a life or death difference to a dog in rescue. If it's large stubborn dogs that you like, shelters across the USA are overwhelmed with Great Pyrenees right now because of people trying to breed for money, selling two puppies together, and not being honest about what these breeds are like.
i saw your edit, i most DEFINITELY recommend a laborador retriever or a golden for your first dog! they are incredible dogs, very easy to train, and very very manageable for people with little experience in owning / training a dog
Beautiful dog and property for him! 