Rize Koyun

The Rize Koyun is a Turkish sheepdog from Rize on the eastern Black Sea coast, working the steep tea-growing hills.

History

It herds and guards sheep in the wet, densely vegetated country of north-eastern Turkey, terrain quite unlike the dry Anatolian plateau most Turkish shepherd dogs come from. It is a local working type rather than a recognised breed, kept by families in the region, and documentation is sparse.

Temperament

The breed is known for being alert, agile and closely attached to its household, watchful with strangers and sure-footed on steep ground.

Care and training

It needs substantial exercise and secure boundaries, and early socialising. The coat suits a wet climate and needs regular brushing.

Health

Generally hardy; nothing is documented as breed-specific. These are patterns for the landrace rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.