Kangal vs Gampr: Livestock Guardian Dog Comparison

The Kangal and Gampr are two popular breeds of livestock guardian dogs, each with their own unique characteristics and strengths.

Originating from Turkey, the Kangal is an ancient breed that has been protecting livestock for centuries.

The Gampr, on the other hand, is a relatively new breed developed in the United States from various ancient breeds.

Both dogs are known for their impressive size and protective instincts, making them ideal for guarding livestock.

The Kangal is generally larger, with males weighing up to 145 pounds, while the Gampr typically weighs between 80-120 pounds.

Related reading: Armenian Gampr Dogs

The Kangal and Armenian Gampr are both large breeds, but they have some notable differences in their physical characteristics. The Kangal dog typically stands 27–33 inches tall and weighs 90–145 pounds.

In comparison, the Armenian Gampr is slightly shorter, with males ranging from 25 – 26 inches in height and females from 23 – 24 inches. They also vary in weight, with males weighing 110 – 135 lbs. and females weighing 99 – 130 lbs.

One notable feature of the Armenian Gampr is its head, which is substantial and heavy with a strong, straight muzzle. Their eyes are almond-shaped and come in a variety of colors, often brown or amber.

The Armenian Gampr's head is substantial and heavy, with a strong, straight muzzle. Their almond-shaped eyes come in a variety of colors, often brown or amber.

Their ears can be cropped to prevent biting and tearing when defending against larger predators, but if left uncropped, they're triangular in shape and pendulous.

The Armenian Gampr's nose and eye rims are always black, no matter what color their coat is.

Their body is lean and agile, with long, flat muscles stretching over strong bones to create a more athletic shape.

They have visibly strong shoulders and a muscly neck, perfect for withstanding the rigors of their work.

Armenian Gamprs come in two coat varieties: short-haired and long-haired. Both are double coated with a thick, rougher top coat and a soft undercoat.

The long-haired variety sheds a bit more during spring and fall, but both types are well-suited for harsh weather, including extreme cold and dry heat.

The Kangal dog and Armenian Gampr are both large breeds, but they have some differences in terms of size.

The Kangal dog typically stands 27–33 inches tall.

The Armenian Gampr is slightly smaller, with males reaching a height of 25 – 26 inches.

Females of the Armenian Gampr breed are even shorter, measuring 23 – 24 inches.

Both breeds have a significant weight range, with the Kangal dog weighing 90–145 pounds.

Males of the Armenian Gampr breed weigh between 110 – 135 lbs.

Females of the Armenian Gampr are generally lighter, weighing between 99 – 130 lbs.

The Armenian Gampr has a curved, plumed tail that is carried high and over the back.

As you might imagine, this distinctive feature is quite noticeable and can be a great conversation starter when meeting an Armenian Gampr in person.

The tail will hang down naturally when the dog is relaxed, giving it a more laid-back appearance.

The Kangal and Gampr breeds have some differences when it comes to their health. The Kangal Dog is a relatively healthy breed, but it can be prone to joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia.

The Armenian Gampr dog, on the other hand, tends to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. They should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year.

Regular veterinary visits can help prevent or catch health problems early on. The Kangal Dog should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year, which is less frequent than the Gampr.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' health concerns:

The lifespan of the two breeds is also worth considering. The average lifespan of the Kangal Dog is 13 years, while the Armenian Gampr dog lives for 15 years.

Recommended read: Huntaway Lifespan

The health of your dog is a top priority, and with the right care, they can live a long and happy life. Both Armenian Gampr and Kangal dogs are generally healthy breeds, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Armenian Gampr dogs tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds, so it's essential to keep a close eye on their health. They may need more frequent veterinary visits, with a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year.

Kangal dogs, on the other hand, are a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues to be aware of. They may be prone to joint issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye and ear infections.

Regular veterinary visits can help catch any potential health issues early on, and with proper care, both Armenian Gampr and Kangal dogs can live a long and healthy life.

Here are some common health concerns to be aware of:

By being aware of these potential health issues and taking steps to prevent them, you can help your Armenian Gampr or Kangal dog live a long and happy life.

Grooming is an essential part of caring for your Armenian Gampr, and it's not as daunting as it sounds.

The Armenian Gampr has a double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall, requiring daily or every-other-day brushing during these seasons.

A pin brush, dematter, comb, and shedding rake are must-haves for proper grooming. You can find a pin brush on Amazon.

Their coats are self-cleaning and don't need regular bathing, as they contain special protective oils that repel dirt and debris.

However, it's still crucial to check their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth or cracking, especially since they can wear down naturally.

You might want to "practice" nail clipping when your puppy is small to make it a routine and not a scary experience.

Their ears need regular cleaning, especially if they're an outdoor working dog, to prevent ear infections caused by dirt and debris.

The Armenian Gampr dog and Kangal Dog may not be the best choices for people with allergies, as neither breed is hypoallergenic. Both dogs have a double coat that sheds moderately to heavily.

If you're allergic to dogs, you'll need to consider the amount of shedding and grooming required for each breed. The Armenian Gampr dog sheds moderately, while the Kangal Dog is a heavy shedder.

Here's a brief comparison of the two breeds' shedding levels:

The Armenian Gampr dog requires less grooming effort than the Kangal Dog, but both breeds need regular bathing. They both require bathing every 3-4 weeks due to their longer, softer, and oilier coats.

Regular grooming and bathing can help reduce the amount of dander and allergens released by these breeds, but it's essential to consider your allergies before bringing one of these dogs home.

If you're considering bringing home a new furry friend, it's essential to think about their exercise needs. Armenian Gampr dogs, for instance, don't really like playing, so they'll need less attention in this area.

Exercise requirements can vary greatly between breeds, so it's crucial to choose one that fits your lifestyle. Kangal Dogs, on the other hand, like playing, so they'll need more exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

If you're planning to take your dog on long walks or hikes, it's a good idea to consider breeds that are more suited to this activity. However, if you live in a small apartment, you'll want to choose a breed that's more adaptable to indoor living.

Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

Remember, every dog is unique, so it's essential to research the specific needs of the breed you're interested in. With the right care and attention, your furry friend will be happy and healthy for years to come.

The Armenian Gampr and Kangal Dog share some similarities in their temperament, but they also have some key differences. Both breeds are known to be independent and protective, but the Armenian Gampr is described as dominant and more reactive, while the Kangal is even-tempered and wary of strangers.

The Armenian Gampr is also known to be a social breed, while the Kangal is antisocial and prefers to be with its immediate family. This means that if you're looking for a breed to be a part of your family's social circle, the Armenian Gampr might be a better fit.

In terms of trainability, both breeds are considered to be relatively easy to train, but the Armenian Gampr is described as being easier to train than the Kangal. The Armenian Gampr also has an average emotional level, while the Kangal is a bit more sensitive.

Both the Armenian Gampr and Kangal Dog breeds are known for their strong protective instincts, but they differ in their approach. Armenian Gampr dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.

Armenian Gampr dogs are also highly intelligent, ranking as one of the smartest dog breeds. They are easy to train and thrive on mental and physical stimulation.

In contrast, Kangal dogs are intelligent, but at an average level. They can be quite easy to train, but may require patience and consistency.

Both breeds are naturally protective of their families and territories, making them effective watchdogs. Armenian Gampr dogs are particularly vigilant and quick to react to potential threats.

A key difference between the two breeds lies in their social needs. Armenian Gampr dogs are social breeds that require interaction and attention from their owners, while Kangal dogs are antisocial and may prefer to be alone.

Here's a comparison of the breeds' personalities and temperaments:

Overall, both breeds have unique personalities and temperaments that make them well-suited for specific living situations.

The Armenian Gampr is a versatile breed that's been used for various jobs beyond being a loyal companion. They've been used as home and family guard dogs, watch dogs for the Armenian army, and even fighting dogs.

Their versatility in these roles is due to their natural working qualities, strength, and stamina.

The Armenian Gampr and Kangal breeds are renowned for their exceptional guarding abilities, with a history of protecting sheep, goats, and cattle from predators like wolves, leopards, and bears.

These dogs are naturally powerful and reliable, making them ideal for guarding flocks in mountainous regions.

Their ability to independently adapt to various situations and come to an appropriate decision is a key trait of the Armenian Gampr breed.

They have been used to guard homes and families, as wolves were often a threat in small villages during the winter months.

Both breeds are capable of fighting predators, but they also intimidate them, making them an effective option for ranchers.

Here are some key traits of Livestock Guardian Dogs:

Their ability to work with minimal human supervision is a testament to their intelligence and independence.

These breeds have been used for thousands of years to guard livestock, and their effectiveness is still renowned today.

If you're considering getting either a Kangal or an Armenian Gampr dog, one of the first things you'll want to think about is the cost.

Armenian Gamprs typically cost between $1000 and $1500 in the United States.

The price can vary depending on the breeder and whether you're importing the dog from Armenia.

In comparison, the Kangal Dog is significantly cheaper, costing between $600 and $800.

It's worth noting that the Armenian Gampr dog is a more expensive breed, but it's also relatively easier to find in the United States.

The bite characteristics of the Kangal and Armenian Gampr dogs are quite interesting. The Armenian Gampr dog has a bite force between 200 and 400 PSI, which is considered ordinary.

The Kangal Dog, on the other hand, has a bite force above 400 PSI, making it one of the strongest. In fact, it has the strongest maximum bite force, measuring an impressive 743 pounds per square inch.

Both the Armenian Gampr and Kangal Dogs have a low chance of biting somebody, which is a reassuring fact for those who are concerned about their safety around these dogs.

Discover more: Kangal Dog Bite Force Psi

In terms of mouthiness, both breeds have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. This means they may engage in playful biting or nipping, but it's not a cause for concern.

Here's a comparison of their bite characteristics:

Overall, the Kangal Dog's bite force is significantly stronger than the Armenian Gampr dog's.