Mary Allen
Hovawart is one of those dog breeds whose name indicates what purpose they once served and can still serve. Thus “hova” means “courtyard” in Middle High German, and “wart” means “guard”.
However, until the beginning of the 19th century, it was called all dogs that looked after the house, and property. It wasn’t until 1922 that the Hovawart we know today was bred from various similar guard and guard dogs. Among others, breeds such as the German Shepherd, Newfoundland, Kuvasz, and Leonberger are said to have been bred to produce a working dog that is naturally a natural, well-balanced, and instinctively capable guard dog.
The Hovawart has not lost these initial abilities to this day – it is still characterized by a pronounced protective and guarding instinct. In addition, he is also becoming more and more popular as a family dog, as he is considered to have strong nerves and his people are very important to him.
General
- FCI Group 2: Pinschers and Schnauzers – Molossians – Swiss Mountain Dogs
- Section 2: Molossians / 2.2 Mountain Dogs
- Height: 63 to 70 centimeters (male); 58 to 65 centimeters (female)
- Colors: blond, black, black markings.
Activity
The Hovawart needs a lot of exercise and other physical and mental activities. Dogs that are not used to their full potential may find tasks and tasks to do out of boredom, which owners or housewives may not like.
Long walks, hikes, jogging, biking, and mentally and physically challenging dog sports are great for keeping your four-legged friends fit and happy. And this should be the most important thing for dog owners: after all, the more busy and happy the dog is, the more balanced it is.
Features of the Breed
Because of their original job as court and house guards, the Hovawarts are confident, bold, and have a strong personality. In addition, he is alert, intelligent, and has great energy. Therefore, it is especially suitable for active people who would like to play sports with their dogs. But the Hovawart not only displays the characteristics that make it a protective dog, but it is also affectionate, sensitive, needs closeness, and is willing to learn.
Recommendations
Representatives of this breed want their people to physically encourage them and learn from them. Therefore, when choosing a Hovawart, a lot of time and activity is important. You also need to have experience with dog ownership, as the strong and intelligent nature of these animals requires consistent (but loving) training. It should be noted that the Hovawart is one of the “late developers” – therefore, its character and behavior are established only in the third year of life. Therefore, dog owners also need to be patient and understanding.
Otherwise, a house with a garden or, ideally, a yard is recommended for the “guardian of the yard”, although the guarding instinct must be respected: the Hovawart is friendly, has strong nerves, and is especially devoted to his family. However, strangers who invade his territory or who he does not want to bring closer to his people have the worst hand.
So you have to let your Hovawart know when the defensive instinct is appropriate and when it is not.