Anatolian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever

Working · Giant vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 65–75 lbs for the Golden Retriever.
  • The Anatolian Shepherd typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Anatolian Shepherd sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdGolden Retriever
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
GiantLarge
Origin
TurkeyScotland
Height (male)
29"23–24"
Height (female)
27"21.5–22.5"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs65–75 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs55–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions