Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison

Akbash breed became popular in the 1970s. Around that period, Akbash was introduced to North America. There is archeological evidence that this breed was popular even in the 750-300 BC. Of course, it wasn’t the exact dog as we know it today, but there are many similarities between Akbash and dog from the ancient period. This breed was developed in Turkey to be a guardian dog. They were perfect flock guardians.

The Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic, also referred to as the Istrian wire-haired or short-haired scenthound is a very ancient dog breed. Apparently the dog has been found in paintings that go way back to the early 1700s.

The dog can either have a short, smooth coat or a rough, wiry longer coat. He has always been popular with hunters, used for hunting rabbits and fox.

An interesting fact with this dog is the correlation between the Dalmatian dog and the Istrian short-haired hound. According to veterinary investigations, there are strong likenesses between the two breeds.

The truth is, the origin of the Istrian has been a matter of dispute for some time but in 2003 the Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized the breed as hailing from Croatia.

Weight of the Akbash dog variates from 41-64kg, while their height is 71-78cm. Female Akbash is smaller than a male Akbash, but not for much. A lifespan of an average Akbash dog is 10-11 years, but if they have cared properly, they tend to live longer. Litter Size of Akbash is 8-9 puppies. Another Name for Akbash is Akbas Coban Kopegi, Coban Kopegi.

Medium in size, the Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic stands at roughly 43 to 60cm at the withers and weighs roughly 12 to 27kg. The chest of the dog is broad and deep, the skull slightly rounded while the muzzle is strong and rectangular shaped. The nose is dark brown or black.

The ears are floppy and are nearly always in the orange color while the tail is long and is carried low. The coat of the rough haired dog is of medium length. In fact the coat can either be short and smooth or longish and wiry with a woolly undercoat. The color of the coat is white with orange markings.

Temperament:

This breed of dog is sought after for his cheerful personality. He is loyal to his human family and is a social dog, loving to spend time around his family.

He is energetic, confident and strong-willed and this is why, as with most other dogs, he will benefit from training and socialization, as this makes him obedient and responsive to his owner. He is evenly tempered, being gentle and docile.

Have in mind that Akbash is a large and powerful dog. They are bred through generations to be guardians and suspicious. They are very independent because they tend to make their own decisions while guarding flocks. They will require adequate socialization, but overall, they are very intelligent and they tend to learn quickly. It requires time and patience, but are great pets for right owners. Akbash has a white to biscuit color coat. They also have a dark pigment around nose, eyes, and mouth. Akbash is very quick and agile dog, which might be surprised because of its size.

It is important to train them since the puppyhood. They are working dogs and they will be happy when they have tasks during training. Due to their independence, consistent and steady training is important. An old-fashioned way of training that includes punishment is not recommendable. Positive training with awards is the best way to train your Akbash dog. They do not require a lot of daily exercises. Daily walks would do more than enough. Younger dogs need more exercise than more mature ones. They can be very good for other animals, but they have to be socialized with them. It is the best way to socialize your dog when it is still a puppy.

The Istrian Wire-haired Scenthound or Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic as he is also referred to is a strong, well built hound which is elegant in appearance.

He has a remarkably striking coat - bright white with orange markings. He has always been an excellent hunting dog, even to this day. This background hunting of his will require that he receives ongoing exercise as well as mental stimulation.

Treat this beautiful dog well - exercise him, groom him, feed him well and love him and you will be rewarded with the loyal and devoted friendship of an amazing dog.

Generally, Akbash is a very healthy breed. They do not have any major health issues. As many large breeds, they can develop hip dysplasia and OCD. But with proper care, regular vet checks, and choosing the right puppy, you won’t be having any problems.

Dental Disease:

There are people who don’t take dental disease seriously in dogs as they think that it simply affects the teeth, when in fact dental disease can affect the dog’s entire body.

Dental- and gum disease is to be regarded with concern as it can be painful and even life threatening. It affects many dogs, and unfortunately your Istarski is also likely to have problems with his teeth. Tartar build-up and infection of the gums can lead to tooth loss but also damage to the kidneys, heart and joints.

Dogs need to have their teeth attended to regularly and if this is something new to you, speak to your vet and find out about special canine toothpaste and toothbrush and how to use them.

Infections:

Dogs can be susceptible to bacterial and viral infections such as rabies, distemper and parvo, and that is why visits to your vet are so important. These life-threatening diseases for your Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic are preventable through vaccinations.

Feeding the Akbash

Akbash dog is very easy to care. They can stay fit on a minimum amount of food. 2-2.5 cups divided into two meals would be ideal for your dog. They require meat, so giving them dry industrial food can be a solid substitute. Vegetables and oil can also be included in meals. It will keep your dog healthy and happy.

Feeding the Akbash

Puppies have to eat more meals per day. It is the best to give your puppy Akbash 3-5 meals per day. Those meals should be divided into smaller portions. It is recommended to give your puppy all necessary vitamins and minerals that include calcium for stronger bones. It will improve the overall health of your dog, and it will help it develop into a healthy adult dog.

Grooming the Akbash

Akbash will request some grooming, but they are not very difficult to groom. They require regular grooming. Every few days will be enough, except when they are shedding. Akbash will need daily grooming when shed. You can bath your pet occasionally, but not very often. Bathing, if necessary, should be done only 5-6 times a year. There is no need for more.

Taking care of an Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic dog is much like caring for a child – doing everything you can to keep him healthy and happy, after all, he is a member of your family.

You want to be watching his diet and making sure that it is the best quality there is, full of vitamins and minerals to keep his eyes bright, his nose wet and his tail wagging.

There are excellent commercially manufactured dog foods on the market today and the best ones ensure excellent nutrition for your dog to keep him in optimal condition through each stage that he goes through. Try to include some home-made food into this kibble such as cooked chicken, brown rice and vegetables and it can be to his benefit to just to include some raw meat from time to time.

Make sure your Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic is well exercised, that you check his teeth and ears to ensure there are no infections and to call the vet immediately you suspect something is wrong. Make sure you have him examined as a puppy and that he gets his necessary injections as there are diseases that can kill your dog.