Hovawart
Description
The Hovawart is a working dog breed that originated in Germany, known for its versatility and strong protective instincts. This breed was traditionally used for guarding farms and livestock, and it is recognized for its loyalty and intelligence. Hovawarts come in three main colors: black, blonde, and brown, and they are characterized by their robust build and long, flowing coat.
Personality
Hovawarts are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they can be somewhat reserved with strangers, showcasing their natural guarding instincts. Hovawarts are typically energetic and playful, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They thrive on companionship and can become protective of their families.
Care Requirements
Hovawarts require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Daily walks, playtime, and training sessions are essential to keep them engaged. Their long coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and to control shedding, particularly during seasonal changes. Hovawarts are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain genetic conditions, so regular veterinary check-ups are important. Socialization from a young age is crucial to ensure they grow into well-rounded adults, and they benefit from positive reinforcement training methods to enhance their responsiveness and obedience.
Suitable For:
- Families with children due to their friendly and protective nature
- Households with other dogs as they are sociable and get along well with other canines
- Individuals or families looking for a protective but not overly aggressive pet
- Those who can provide regular, moderate exercise
- Owners who prefer a quieter large breed as they don't bark excessively
- NOT
Not Suitable For:
- Those who cannot commit to regular exercise as Hovawarts need some level of activity
- Individuals or families looking for a very low-energy dog
- People who prefer a very independent breed as Hovawarts are protective and like to stay close to their families
- Those who don't have time or patience for training, despite their high trainability, they still need consistent guidance
- People who are not home often, as they crave company and can suffer from separation anxiety.
Physical Characteristics
Hovawarts are medium to large-sized dogs, with males typically weighing between 90 to 110 pounds and females weighing between 70 to 90 pounds. They have a strong, muscular build and a well-proportioned body. The breed has a long, thick double coat that is water-resistant, providing protection against various weather conditions. Their heads are broad with a slightly rounded skull, and they have expressive eyes that convey intelligence and alertness. The ears are medium-sized and hang down close to the head.
Height
Male: 23" - 28"
Female: 23" - 28"
Weight
Male: 65 - 90 lbs
Female: 65 - 90 lbs
Life Expectancy
10 - 14 years
Breed Characteristics
Maintenance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The Hovawart breed has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages in Germany. Their name translates to "an estate guard dog," which reflects their initial role as protectors of castles and fiefdoms. They were highly valued for their strong guarding instincts and loyalty to their families.
Hovawarts are a large and versatile breed, standing between 23-28 inches tall and weighing between 65-90 lbs. They have a distinctive look with their thick, slightly wavy coats that come in three color variations: black, black and gold, and blond.
A unique behavioral trait of the Hovawart is their independence. They were bred to make decisions on their own while guarding properties, which has resulted in a breed that is intelligent, but also can be somewhat stubborn. It's not uncommon for a Hovawart to prefer figuring things out on their own, rather than following a command immediately.
A Hovawart named "Bella" made headlines in 2013 when she was crowned the winner of the Danish Kennel Club's "Dog of the Year" award. It was reported that Bella's exceptional obedience and agility skills, combined with her warm personality, earned her this prestigious honor.
In Germany, the Hovawart's country of origin, this breed holds significant cultural significance. The Hovawart Club of Germany has strict regulations to maintain the breed's purity and health. This includes conducting temperament and health tests before a dog is allowed to breed. This dedication to the breed has helped to keep the Hovawart true to its original characteristics for centuries.