Kars

Also called Kars Shepherd Dog, Kars Çoban Köpeği, Kars Dog

A courageous guardian that stands between its flock and predators; shepherds in the region rely on it to hold its ground.

Size	Giant
Coat	Long double coat (short-coated dogs also occur)
Origin	Turkey, around the town and province of Kars in the north-east, part of the Armenian Highlands.1
Last checked	2026-09-30

Rare breedShort profile

brave protector of livestock

strong and hardy

dependable working partner for shepherds

Personality what they are like

A courageous guardian that stands between its flock and predators; shepherds in the region rely on it to hold its ground.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Kars. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year

Coat and looks how to spot one

long double coat (short-coated dogs also occur)

A large, heavy flock guardian that usually carries a long, dense double coat, although some dogs have shorter hair.1

Coloursblackwhitegreyredyellowbrownoften with white on chest, neck and forelegs1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working guardian used to long days out with the flocks; it does best with space and a job to do.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The thick coat benefits from regular brushing, especially while the undercoat is shedding.1

Home where they are happiest

Suited to rural, livestock-keeping homes with large fenced grounds rather than city living.1

Company who they like around

Forms strong ties with its family and the animals it watches over; early socialisation helps with visitors.1

The story where it all began

Local shepherds around Kars have long used these dogs to guard sheep. The breed was first described scientifically by David Nelson at a symposium on Turkish shepherd dogs in Konya in 1996, and it was registered by the Turkish Standards Institution in 2002.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It is one of three Turkish flock guardian breeds, alongside the Akbash and the Kangal.1
2
It looks a lot like the Caucasian Shepherd Dog.1
3
Local stories tell of Kars dogs driving off bears that came near their flocks.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Kars Shepherd takes its name from the town of Kars in Kars Province, Turkey, and is also found throughout the provinces of Ardahan, Artvin, Erzurum and Iğdır in eastern Turkey.1

Name ideas for your new friend

BozKaraAslanDumanPamukÇakırYıldızKayaRüzgarŞimşekBademKumru

A day in the life told by a Kars

I patrol the hillside before sunrise, my flock safe behind me. When a wolf howls, I stand tall and growl low. My humans trust me, and I never let them down. By noon, I rest on a high rock, watching the sheep graze. A curious fox gets a warning bark. Evening brings a pat from my shepherd, then I circle the flock again as the stars appear. I am the night guardian.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Turkish Standards Institution (TSE): Registered as a breed in 2002.1
FCI: Not recognised.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Kars tip

Kars dogs have a sensitive digestive system, so introduce any new treat gradually and stick to high-quality, low-fat options. For dental health, look for VOHC-endorsed chews, but always ask your vet before adding new treats to their diet.

Source: vcahospitals.com petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Kars, and at what times?

Feed your Kars at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Regular meal times help digestion, and free feeding is not recommended for puppies. Your vet can advise on the best schedule for your dog.2

What should a Kars eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by experts. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.3

How often should I bathe a Kars?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if your Kars gets very dirty. Always use a dog-safe shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect its coat.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Kars need brushing?

Brush your Kars at least once a week, and more often during shedding season to manage its thick undercoat. Daily brushing is ideal for its long double coat to keep it healthy and reduce loose hair.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Kars's nails, and how often?

Trim your Kars's nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time and stop before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Kars need?

Your Kars is a working guardian that needs plenty of daily exercise and a job to do. Daily walks and play are essential, and it thrives with space to roam. A large fenced yard is ideal for this active breed.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Kars's teeth and ears?

Brush your Kars's teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check its floppy ears weekly for moisture and dirt, and dry them gently without pushing anything inside. Regular care prevents infections.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Kars live?

The lifespan of a Kars varies; consult your vet for guidance specific to your dog's health and care.

Is a Kars good with children and other pets?

The Kars forms strong bonds with its family and animals it watches over, making it good with children and other pets when properly socialised. Early socialisation helps it accept visitors calmly. It is a courageous guardian by nature.1

Can a Kars be left alone?

The Kars is a devoted guardian that prefers to be with its family and flock. It can be left alone for short periods if well exercised, but it does best with company and a job to do. This breed is not suited to long hours alone.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.