Hovawart

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Size: Large
Other Names: Hovie
Country of Origin: Germany
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): FSS
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Working
United Kennel Club (UKC): Guardian Dog
The Kennel Club (KC): Working Dogs
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Working Dogs
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized

The Hovawart is a medium-sized dog.

A German farm guardian for a house and yard; a longish coat that sheds, a watchful bark, and too much dog for a casual apartment.

The Hovawart is a German dog breed. The name of the breed means "an estate guard dog," which is the original use for the breed. The breed originated in the Black Forest region, and was first described in text and paintings in medieval times. The Hovawart does exceptionally well in search and rescue, tracking and working dog activities. The females are generally lighter in build and often love agility.

Height: Male: 25-27½ inches; Female: 23-25½ inches
Weight: 55-90 pounds
Color: Black, Black and Gold, and Blond
Coat: Long, slightly wavy double coat with a dense undercoat
Lifespan: 10–14 years
Litter size: 4–8 puppies

Temperament

The Hovawart is an outstanding watch dog, and somewhat reserved towards strangers. They make excellent family dogs, as they are totally devoted to their family. The Hovawart is a working dog breed, and requires a consistent and loving, yet strict, training, and meaningful activity throughout their lives. The owner of a Hovawart should ideally have previous experience in owning and training a dog. The Hovawart is not usually suitable as a first dog.

Training

The trainer must keep positive reinforcement in mind at all times, as the Hovawart is not as eager to please as many other working dog breeds. It is important to realize that the Hovawart works with you and not for you. They do have the ability to think and act independently. Their guarding instinct, for example, does not require any real training. It is inherent. It is what they were bred for. The Hovawart may easily become reluctant if training is built only on punishments.

Care and grooming

Brush the long coat several times a week. This farm guardian needs a job and space.

Shedding

Moderate; heavier when the undercoat blows.

Health

Hovawarts may develop hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and cancer in some lines. Ask breeders about hip scores and thyroid testing.

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