The Kuvasz Dog
The Kuvasz dog originates from Hungary dating back to the Middle Ages. Its ancestors are believed to have come from Tibet by
way of Turkey. In former times, the Kuvasz dog was owned exclusively by the Hungarian nobility who were quite fond of them. King
Mathias I of Hungary (1458 - 1490) is quoted as having said that he trusted his dogs more than humans! The breed's name,
"Kuvasz", originally from the Turkish language, means "protector" and is an accurate portrayal of how
this breeds views its mission in life. It will defend its family and territory with single minded ferociousness.
Because of its size and capabilities, this powerful breed was also used as a hunter in
addition to its move natural role as estate and family guardian.
As with many European breeds, numbers declined dramatically during World Wars I and II. The Kuvasz dog was introduced to North
America around 1930 and recognized by the AKC in 1935. It is not a widely known breed, and today ranks around the 110 mark in
the American Kennel Club. The Kuvasz may not be suitable for first time dog owners.
| Origin |
Hungary - Middle Ages |
| Original Use |
Guardian, hunter |
| Use Today |
Herding, companion, security |
| Temperament |
The Kuvasz dog is a devoted and loyal dog, but may not be as demonstrative as others. It is even tempered and fiercely protective of its family and household. It does have a stubborn and independent side and needs to be dealt with in a consistent, firm, but fair manner. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - Not Accepting |
| Other Pets - Good if raised with them |
| Strangers - Not Accepting |
| Children - Accepting if raised with children
|
| Watchdog Ability |
Excellent |
| Guard dog Ability |
Excellent |
| Ease of Training |
Average |
| Living Conditions |
The Kuvasz is not very suitable for the urban environment. In a rural setting, It is content to live outdoors in most temperate to cool climates but is equally at home living indoors with its family if it is given enough room. |
| Exercise |
As one would expect, a dog this size needs a lot of daily physical exercise. A long walk or run will suffice. Alternatively, a dog that is used for herding can get its daily exercise requirement while 'on the job'. Without proper exercise it will get restless and could exhibit destructive behavior. |
| Coat |
It has a medium length double coat. The hair is coarse and may be straight or contain a bit of wave. |
| Grooming |
Brushing is required once or twice a week. |
| Colors |
The Kuvasz dog is white or ivory. |
| Height and Weight |
Weight range is 70 to 115 pounds (31.8 to 52.2 kg) while the height range is 26 to 30 inches (66 to 76.2 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
10 to 13 years. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Kuvasz dog in the Working group. |
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