Pet Health And Care >> Dog Breed >> Kuvasz

Kuvasz Dog Info:

The Kuvasz is a breed of Hungarian sheepdog that is thought to have existed for centuries.

A considerable amount of breed mixing is bound to have occurred in the centuries before breed standards were developed, but the Kuvasz dog breed has existed in roughly the same form for hundreds of years. It is thought to have entered Hungary in the 13th century along with Turkish herders escaping from the Mongols. Since then it has been popular among royalty (Kuvasz puppies were even given to royal visitors as gifts) and has also continued to be prized as a working dog.

Besides herding, the Kuvasz has also excelled at guarding and hunting.

The Kuvasz is a large breed, and can grow up to a height of 30 inches, weighing up to 52 kilograms. Females are slightly smaller in both height and weight.

The Kuvasz coat is cream or white in color, usually with a wavy texture, and includes a thick undercoat. The skin however is dark, and the lips and nose are black. The fur is quite long, with feathering at the back of the hind legs and the tail to some extent.

Kuvasz dogs are calm, intelligent, and friendly dogs. At the same time, they can be quite territorial and protective, in keeping with the purpose for which they were bred. These dogs can be puppy-like and playful at times, yet they also have a tendency to be independent and keep to themselves. It therefore takes a patient, understanding, and experienced owner to care for them properly. It is essential that the owner firmly asserts his or her leadership state, or else a Kuvasz will naturally slip into this role. This of course does not need to be done by force, but by simple practices such as defining rules with regard to eating, sleeping, playing, and so on. The same goes for obedience training, which is essential for these dogs. Training should be reward based, and the trainer (and owner) should be patient. A Kuvasz may have a great ability to learn, but is not always willing to be told what to do. Teaching the dog more complex tasks may therefore take up most of the first year of his life. Socialization of these dogs is also very important to prevent them from becoming excessively territorial or suspicious of strangers. All of this is doubly important and requires twice the amount of work from the owner if the dog is to be put to work as a herder, guard dog, or in any other role.

Submitted on May 7, 2010