Turkish Spike Collars are also called ‘Wolf Collars’. They are designed to protect dogs from wolves, fitted with elongated spikes to stop predators from directly attacking dogs on the neck. In most parts of the world, these collars are no longer being used, however, they can be still found in Spain and Turkey. The metal spiked collar in the pictures are samples of the traditional collars worn by Turkish Shepherd dogs while guarding their herds. Flocks of sheep and goats are prey to fierce animals as they graze in the mountains and valleys of Turkey. These collars serve to protect the dog and become an aid in fighting against wolves and bears. The styles of collars vary from village to village, and from one blacksmith to another.
“A wolf collar is normally made out of metals such as iron. The length of the spikes can be quite long, but styles differ in different places. (…) The spikes provide protection and can also be used as a weapon. There are some tales that suggest that dogs were only given them after they had killed their first wolf; however, these are normally considered to be inaccurate. The use of wolf collars is now banned in some countries, as it is seen as cruel to dogs.” (Wikipedia)
In “The Story of Turkey” (2002) Elizabeth Rassiga describes her observations during her travels in Anatolia: “We shared the space with the last nomad Shepard to leave the high country pastures for the season. Three sheepdogs, a flock of 500 fluffy-coated sheep and a few goats accompanied him. (…) The true guardians, however, were the ferocious sheep dogs, who lazed along the perimeter. Of the three dogs, two were support dogs; the large, sandy-colored lead dog, wore a two-inch steel collar with four-inch metal spikes around his neck to protect him from the gray mountain wolves that prey upon the sheep. (…) That night, I was awakened by the sound of the approaching bells. The sheep, who had spent the day trying to stay cool, were now busy grazing. The ringing grew louder, and I realized that the entire flock was headed for my tent. I’d enjoyed watching them across the narrow valley all day, now they’d come to visit. After a while, my tent became totally engulfed by the sheep. (…) Ismet had tutored me on the behavior of sheep dogs. Anything that approaches the flock, from outside, is in peril. I, however, was now at the center of the flock and the dogs would protect me as well.”
Below are pictures of modern Turkish collars, most of them quite unique, colorful, designed with beads, bells, and other decorative trinkets:
The Nazar Boncuk charm (or Evil Eye Bead) is a big blue glass “eye” that is commonly used in making of these fancy dog collars. The eye stares back at the world to ward off the evil spirits and keep a person safe from harm. It is one of the most common items of decoration in any Turkish home. It is found hanging over doors, in cars, and from peoples’ necks. Some Turks carry a few beads in their pocket and give them out to guests and visitors.
No wonder, that the Evil Eye Beads are found on the leather collars made for the Livestock Guardians in the area.
Perfect collars page
I have a 2 year old Sivas Kangal and he is wonderful. He’s strong minded by listens well. He is a house dog and lives with 4 other house dogs. He has mated once with my female who is an Argentine Dogo. I kept 2 of the pups. They are almost a year old and are also wonderful. The bigger one of the two is very aggressive. Both pups are brindle in color. Needless to say, in my neighborhood, mine is the least likely house to be robbed.
I would enthusiastically recommend a Kangal to anyone (with big dog experience, that is.) who wants a loving, protective big dog.
Thank you.
I have a spike Turkish wolf collar for my kangal Russell but it’s too small.. I have a coyote problem at our cabin and i want to keep him protected, since he protects us.. if anyone has links or one for sale please let me know.. 22″ isn’t cutting it lol
Anybody know where I can buy a Turkish Spike Collar for my Kangal? If so please email me;
“Danielalkan@live.com”
These look useful if you have dogs for hunting boar or puma, or even just to defend against coyotes n shit like that