Assyria’s War Dog: A 4,000-Year-Old Lion Hunter

| Archeaology
December 13, 2024

Aksaray Malaklısı, the largest of the Anatolian sheepdogs, also known as the Turkish mastiff or Anatolian lion, was used as a war dog by the Assyrians 4000-2500 years ago.

The Aksaray Malaklısı Breed Improvement Association (AKMID) stated that the dog breed is one of the oldest in the world and has a history of 3,500 years in Anatolia.
“The Sumerians brought them from Central Asia to the Mesopotamian basin. This breed was used as a war dog 4,000-25,000 years ago, during the time of the Assyrians,” explained Muammer Tıpırdamaz, president of AKMID. Tıpırdamaz explained that the dogs were trained to attack enemies, recognizing enemy soldiers by their different clothing, in contrast to the armor of the Assyrians. Today, Aksaray Malaklısı is a shepherd and guard dog, explained Tıpırdamaz. “It is used both as a guard dog for shepherds and as a guard dog in mansions, factories and houses,” he explained.

Tıpırdamaz explained that regardless of how they are trained as puppies, that is how they will remain as adults. If they are raised in the company of livestock, they will become accustomed to caring for them. If they are raised in a house, they will get used to living with the owner of the house, his family and acquaintances.

Since Babylonian times, large, powerful dogs with enormous heads have lived in the Kurdistan region. They were used as fighting dogs in battles, as well as to hunt large animals, including lions and wild horses. These interesting scenes are represented in the well-preserved Assyrian bas-reliefs, exhibited in the British Museum. This horse-sized dog looks quite scary, but is friendly towards humans and loyal to its owners. Bold historians assume that the breed has existed since 1000 BC. C. There are many legends about its origin, but according to the most interesting one, it was bred by Babylonians and Assyrians as a guard dog and could even defeat a lion. Another legend claims that he was the first Assyrian shepherd in the territory of what is now modern Kurdistan. For most Assyrians (Pshdar dog) also Kurdish sheepdog, life offers no lions with which to measure their strength, so their daily life is spent guarding flocks of sheep or houses. It is considered one of the best “service” breeds in the world. They have black, grey, sand, red and white fur and have a wrinkled face with loose, soft skin. They also have a huge dewlap and soft ears the same color as their body.

These dogs were used by the Assyrian military and their kings such as the Great King “Ashurbanipal” to hunt and take down large predators such as lions and tigers. The Assyrian shepherd has a strong constitution to do hard work. It is a large, powerful and robust dog, which has great agility and resistance. It has good bones and a large head. Its gait is powerful, smooth and fluid. Their coat consists of a thick undercoat and an outer coat that ranges from short (about 1 inch) to coarse (about 4 inches), slightly longer around the neck and mane. His expression is intelligent and the overall impression he gives is that of a bold but calm protector. In his homeland, the Assyrian sheepdog (Pshdar dog) not only herded cattle, but also guarded the flock.

The Assyrian Shepherd learns quickly, is faithful and affectionate with its owner, with close family friends and with children. Currently, the Assyrian Shepherd is becoming increasingly popular in Europe and America, where people buy these dogs as companion dogs or property guards. His popularity outside his native country in the last ten years has been constantly increasing.

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Review: Top 10 Healthcare Services in the USA

The U.S. healthcare industry is a complex ecosystem of providers, insurers, and technology-driven services, delivering critical care to millions. In 2025, the sector is shaped by rising costs (projected at $4.9 trillion in 2023), technological innovation, and a focus on patient-centric care. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 healthcare services in the USA, based on market presence, patient outcomes, and industry impact.

1. HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is the largest health system, operating 220 hospitals and over 40,000 staffed beds across 20 states. Known for comprehensive services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty treatments, it generates significant net patient revenue. Its scale and advanced technology adoption ensure high-quality care, though accessibility varies by region.

2. Universal Health Services (UHS)

UHS manages 183 hospitals across 40 states, with over 21,000 beds, focusing on acute care and behavioral health. Its facilities in Texas, Florida, and California provide diverse services, from trauma care to psychiatric treatment. UHS’s emphasis on mental health integration aligns with 2025 trends, though high costs can be a barrier.

3. Encompass Health Corporation

With 164 hospitals, Encompass is the largest operator of rehabilitation hospitals, offering specialized post-acute care for stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury patients. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, it operates in 37 states, delivering measurable outcomes through therapy-focused programs. Its niche focus limits broader service scope.

4. CommonSpirit Health

A Catholic-affiliated system with 142 hospitals, CommonSpirit provides acute care, outpatient services, and telehealth across 21 states. It excels in community health programs and equitable access, serving underserved populations. Its integration of AI for diagnostics enhances efficiency, but merger-related challenges can affect consistency.

5. Ascension Health

Ascension operates 139 hospitals, focusing on primary care, oncology, and cardiology. With a mission-driven approach, it serves low-income communities through charity care programs. Its adoption of value-based care (VBC) models, projected to cover 90 million lives by 2027, improves outcomes but faces staffing shortages.

6. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is a leading integrated healthcare provider, combining insurance and care delivery for 12.5 million members. Its ACA marketplace plans are top-rated for affordability and quality, with low deductibles and strong preventive care. Operating in eight states, its HMO model ensures coordinated care but limits patient choice.

7. Aetna (CVS Health)

Aetna, under CVS Health, provides health insurance and healthcare services, covering 39 million lives. Its ACA plans offer competitive premiums and broad networks, with telehealth and pharmacy integration via CVS. Aetna’s focus on chronic disease management and AI-driven care navigation boosts outcomes, though rural access is limited.

8. Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minnesota, is renowned for specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. With 70,000 staff and three major campuses, it serves 1.3 million patients annually. Its research-driven approach and high patient satisfaction earn it top rankings, but costs and geographic reach are drawbacks.

9. Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic, with 23 hospitals, is a leader in cardiac care and medical innovation, serving patients across Ohio, Florida, and Nevada. Its adoption of cloud computing and AI for diagnostics enhances precision medicine. High costs and limited national presence restrict accessibility for some.

10. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

BCBS, a federation of 34 independent companies, insures 115 million Americans, offering PPO, HMO, and EPO plans. Its ACA marketplace plans are widely available, with strong provider networks and wellness programs. BCBS’s focus on digital health tools and equitable access is notable, though premiums vary by state.

Choosing the Right Service

Selecting a healthcare service depends on location, medical needs, and budget. HCA and UHS offer broad hospital-based care, while Kaiser and Aetna excel in integrated insurance and delivery. Mayo and Cleveland Clinic are ideal for specialized treatments, and BCBS provides flexible insurance options. Compare costs (e.g., average ACA premium: $635/month), provider networks, and patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or U.S. News. With 26 million uninsured Americans and rising costs, prioritize services with telehealth, preventive care, and VBC to maximize value.

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