IS The Kuvasz RIGHT FOR YOU?
- 1The Kuvasz dog is known for their intelligence, independence, protectiveness, and clownish sense of humor.
- 2The Kuvasz breed is not for novices; they can be challenging to train even by experienced handlers.
- 3Kuvasz make excellent guardians for sheep and large areas of land.
- 4Socialization with other dogs and strangers is imperative for Kuvasz puppies.
HISTORY
Originating in Tibet and perfected in Hungary, the Kuvasz is a breed of guard dog that some believe has been around since the time of the Huns. Recovered fossils suggest that this breed could be one of the oldest remaining breeds. Translating roughly to protector in Turkish, this breed has been guarding livestock for hundreds of years. By the end of WWII, the Kuvasz, along with many other European breeds, was on the brink of extinction. Thanks to the actions of a few dedicated breeders, the Kuvasz was bred out of jeopardy and back to sustainable numbers.
Quick Facts
Size
Extra Large
Lifespan
10-13 years, up to15
Hair Length
Medium
Male Height
28-30 inches (71-76)
Male Weight
100-115 pounds (45-52kg)
Female Height
26-28 inches (66-71cm)
Female Weight
70-90 pounds (32-41kg)
Litter Size
6-9 puppies, average 8 puppies
Personality
A very bright, loyal, and protective guard breed, the Kuvasz can have a will of their own, making training a challenge. They require early socialization, because of their immense size and the fact that they might try to challenge your authority as they begin to get bigger. They are not an ideal family dog for new owners because of their deeply ingrained guarding behaviors. They should be trained with a calm, but firm hand, and, because of their inherent independence, the emphasis should be on teaching and not training. They are smart dogs that are used to working on their own -- help them learn how to be a pack member. .
Color
The Kuvasz can be white, cream, or ivory.
Health Concerns
Some of the health concerns associated with the Kuvasz are:
- hip dysplasia
- orthopedic disorders
- allergies
- skin problems
Appearance
The Kuvasz is a large, athletically built breed that looks in many ways like a larger version of the Labrador. They have a round head with a definite stop at the beginning of the muzzle. The muzzle tapers down, but does not end in a point. They have a black nose, brown eyes, a dense mane around their neck and chest, and dark skin. Their tail is long and fluffy, usually carried between their legs.
