Turkish 'lion' sheepdog attracting customers worldwide

By Serhat Bugra Senkokcu

BALIKESIR, Turkey

A Turkish dog famed for its shepherding skill and people-friendliness is now making its mark all over the globe, said a breeder of the canines on Monday.

So far the "Anatolian lion" sheepdog (Anadolu Aslani) has been sold to customers from 32 countries, entrepreneur Birol Basyigit told Anadolu Agency.

With an investment of nearly two million Turkish liras (nearly $450,000), Basyigit started to breed the helpful dogs with his friend Kaan Bilgic in the northwestern province of Balikesir.

"The dog is hailed for its large size, agility, and friendliness towards people," said Basyigit, adding that he has had customers from countries as varied as the U.S., China, Norway, Greece, Germany, Indonesia, Cameroon, Italy, South Korea, Kuwait, Qatar, and Peru.

"NBA stars, kickboxing champions, bureaucrats, and politicians are showing great interest in these dogs," he said.