Sporting breed from Tarsus, Turkey
The Tarsus Çatalburun is a medium-sized sporting dog from Turkey, known for its distinctive split nose. It is a rare landrace gundog, traditionally used by local hunters for pointing and retrieving small game. The breed is loyal, intelligent, energetic, alert, and work-focused. Estimated adult weight is 20–25 kg, height 48–61 cm, and lifespan 10–14 years. Energy and trainability are rated high (4/5), while grooming and shedding are moderate (3/5). Suitability with children, other dogs, and apartment living is moderate (3/5). Recognition varies by registry; it is recognized by the Turkish Kennel Club (KIF) but not by major international kennel clubs.
The Tarsus Çatalburun originates from the Tarsus region of Turkey. It is a landrace gundog, meaning it developed naturally in the area over centuries rather than through formal breeding programs. Local hunters have prized it for its hunting abilities, particularly for partridge and small game. The breed is one of the few with a congenital split nose, which is believed to enhance its scenting ability, though this is not scientifically proven. The breed is recognized as a national breed by the Turkish Kennel Club (KIF), but its recognition status varies by registry and it is not recognized by major international kennel clubs. Its history is not well-documented in written records, and much of what is known comes from oral tradition and local knowledge. The breed remains rare, even in its native region.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
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.
No Tarsus Çatalburun-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.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
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The Tarsus Çatalburun is a medium-sized dog. Estimated adult weight is 20–25 kg for both males and females, and height is 48–61 cm. Estimated lifespan is 10–14 years. These are modelled estimates, not exact figures.
The breed is described as loyal, intelligent, energetic, alert, and work-focused. Individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
The breed has a high energy level (rated 4 out of 5), so it likely needs substantial daily exercise. As a sporting dog, it probably enjoys activities like running, hiking, or hunting-related tasks.
Grooming needs are moderate (rated 3 out of 5), and shedding is also moderate (3/5). Regular brushing and occasional baths should suffice, but specific coat type is not documented.
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated moderate (3/5), so it may be suitable with proper socialization. Apartment suitability is also moderate (3/5), but its high energy may make a home with a yard more ideal.
The breed originates from the Tarsus region of Turkey. It is a landrace gundog developed by local hunters over centuries.
Recognition varies by registry. It is recognized as a national breed by the Turkish Kennel Club (KIF) but is not recognized by major international kennel clubs.
Image source: No approved image attached. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.