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Aksaray Malaklisi
Working breed from Aksaray Province, Central Anatolia, Turkey
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Aksaray Malaklisi
The Aksaray Malaklisi is a giant livestock guardian dog from the Aksaray Province in Central Anatolia, Turkey. It is classified in the Working breed group. Its name comes from the Turkish word 'Malakli,' meaning 'with lips,' referring to its pendulous lips. The breed is known for its massive frame, muscular build, and protective instincts. Temperament traits include being protective, loyal, independent, calm, alert, courageous, and intelligent. However, individual dogs may vary. Estimated adult weight ranges from 55 to 90 kg for both sexes, and estimated adult height ranges from 76 to 86 cm. The estimated lifespan is 8 to 12 years. Energy, trainability, grooming, and shedding scores are all 3 out of 5, indicating moderate levels. Suitability with children, other dogs, and apartment living are each scored 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate compatibility but with individual variation.
Quick facts
Aksaray Malaklisi at a glance
Sizegiant
Breed groupWorking
OriginAksaray Province, Central Anatolia, Turkey
Lifespan8–12 years
Male weight55–90 kilogram
Female weight55–90 kilogram
Male height76–86 centimetre
Female height76–86 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Aksaray Malaklisi is an ancient Turkish breed that developed as a landrace in the Aksaray region of central Turkey. It was historically used for livestock protection against large predators such as wolves and bears. The breed is closely related to Turkish mastiff and guardian breeds. It is recognized by Turkish cynology organizations as distinct from the Kangal Shepherd Dog. The breed's origins are in Aksaray Province and Central Anatolia, Turkey. Its recognition status varies by registry, and no specific dates or historical events are available from the supplied facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
55–90 kilogramAdult weight76–86 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Protectiveloyalindependentcalmalertcourageousintelligent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Aksaray Malaklisi-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Aksaray Malaklisi puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight55–90 kilogramAdult female weight55–90 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of an Aksaray Malaklisi?
The Aksaray Malaklisi is a giant breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 55 to 90 kg, and estimated adult height is 76 to 86 cm. The estimated lifespan is 8 to 12 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of the Aksaray Malaklisi?
Reported temperament traits include protective, loyal, independent, calm, alert, courageous, and intelligent. However, individual dogs may not exhibit all these traits, and behavior can vary.
How much exercise does an Aksaray Malaklisi need?
The breed has an energy score of 3 out of 5, indicating a moderate energy level. Regular exercise is likely needed, but specific requirements are not detailed in the supplied facts.
What are the grooming needs of an Aksaray Malaklisi?
Grooming and shedding scores are both 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate grooming needs and shedding. No specific coat type or color is provided in the facts.
Is the Aksaray Malaklisi suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both scored 3 out of 5, indicating moderate suitability. Individual temperament and socialization play a significant role, so not every dog will be equally suitable.
Can an Aksaray Malaklisi live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is scored 3 out of 5, suggesting it may be possible but not ideal. This giant breed likely requires ample space, and individual needs may vary.
Where does the Aksaray Malaklisi originate from?
The breed originates from the Aksaray Province in Central Anatolia, Turkey. It developed as a landrace for livestock protection against large predators.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.