Mary Allen
Introduction: What is a Hovawart dog?
The Hovawart dog is a large, working breed that originated in Germany. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature, making them popular as guard dogs and family pets. Hovawarts have a thick coat of fur that can be either black, blonde, or a combination of the two. They are muscular and agile, with a height of up to 27 inches and a weight of up to 110 pounds.
History of the Hovawart breed
The Hovawart breed has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. They were originally bred as guard dogs for farms, castles, and villages in the Black Forest region of Germany. The breed almost became extinct in the early 20th century, but a group of enthusiasts worked to revive the breed in the 1920s. Today, Hovawarts are still relatively rare outside of their native Germany, but they have a dedicated following around the world.
Recognition by major kennel clubs
Hovawart dogs are recognized by several major kennel clubs around the world, including the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), the Kennel Club (KC) in the United Kingdom, the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). However, not all of these organizations have the same level of recognition for the breed.
The American Kennel Club’s stance on Hovawarts
The AKC recognized the Hovawart breed in 2012, but they are not yet eligible to compete in AKC events. Instead, they are classified as a Foundation Stock Service breed, which means that the AKC is working to establish a breeding population in the United States and gather more information about the breed.
The United Kennel Club’s stance on Hovawarts
The UKC recognized the Hovawart breed in 1996 and they are eligible to compete in UKC events. The UKC describes Hovawarts as "intelligent, loyal and protective," and notes that they are "eager to please." They are classified as a Guardian Dog breed by the UKC.
The Kennel Club’s stance on Hovawarts
The KC in the United Kingdom recognized the Hovawart breed in 1982 and they are eligible to compete in KC events. The KC describes Hovawarts as "reliable, intelligent and affectionate," and notes that they are "loyal and protective of their family and home." They are classified as a Working breed by the KC.
The Canadian Kennel Club’s stance on Hovawarts
The CKC recognized the Hovawart breed in 1996 and they are eligible to compete in CKC events. The CKC describes Hovawarts as "fearless, intelligent and devoted," and notes that they are "loyal and protective of their family." They are classified as a Working breed by the CKC.
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale’s stance on Hovawarts
The FCI is an international organization that recognizes and regulates dog breeds around the world. They recognized the Hovawart breed in 1964 and they are eligible to compete in FCI events. The FCI describes Hovawarts as "calm, self-assured and fearless," and notes that they are "loyal and protective of their family." They are classified as a Group 2 breed by the FCI.
Hovawarts in non-recognized kennel clubs
There are several kennel clubs around the world that do not recognize the Hovawart breed, including some in countries where the breed is popular, such as Sweden and Norway. This can make it more difficult for Hovawart owners to compete in dog shows and other events in those countries.
Benefits of breed recognition
Breed recognition by major kennel clubs can provide several benefits for Hovawart owners and breeders, such as increased visibility, access to resources and information, and the ability to compete in dog shows and other events. It can also help to promote responsible breeding practices and improve the overall health and quality of the breed.
Challenges facing Hovawart breed recognition
One of the main challenges facing Hovawart breed recognition is their relative rarity outside of their native Germany. This can make it more difficult to establish a breeding population in other countries and gather the information and resources needed for full recognition by major kennel clubs. Additionally, some kennel clubs have strict requirements for breed recognition, such as a certain number of breeders and dogs in a given area.
Conclusion: Future outlook for Hovawart recognition
Overall, the Hovawart breed has made significant progress in gaining recognition by major kennel clubs around the world. While there are still some challenges to be overcome, such as increasing breed visibility and establishing a breeding population in new areas, the dedication of Hovawart enthusiasts and breeders suggests a promising future for the breed. With continued efforts to promote responsible breeding practices and improve the overall health and quality of the breed, the Hovawart may one day become more widely recognized and appreciated around the world.