Ava Williams
Shoulder height: 66 – 76 cm
Weight: 32 – 62 kg
Age: 12 – 14 years
Color: white, ivory
Use: companion dog, guard dog, protection dog
The Kuvasz (pronounced Kuwass) is an imposing, stately-sized white shepherd dog. It is intelligent, spirited, and a reliable guardian. It needs a task that accommodates this disposition. As a pure companion dog in a city apartment, it is unsuitable.
Origin and history
The Kuvasz is an ancient Hungarian herding breed of Asian origin. In the Middle Ages, it was used to hunt wolves and bears. They later became indispensable companions for shepherds and ranchers who needed these dogs to guard and protect their flocks from predators and thieves. With the decline of pastoralism, this original use has become rarer. With the Hungarian uprising in 1956, the dog breed was almost wiped out. In 2000 the last standard description of the Kuvasz was confirmed under the FCI standard number 54 in its country of origin Hungary.
Appearance of the Kuvasz
With its stately size and weight of up to 62 kg, the Kuvasz is an impressive sight. Its fur is white to ivory in color and slightly wavy. Under the coarser topcoat, there is a finer downy undercoat. The fur is slightly shorter on the head, ears, and paws. It forms a clear collar around the neck, especially in males, which extends to an expressive mane on the chest. The hanging tail is also covered with thick wavy hair.
The Kuvasz’s ears are V-shaped with a rounded tip and hanging. When alert, the ear is raised slightly but never fully erect. The eyes are dark, as are the nose and lips.
The Kuvasz coat is self-cleaning and relatively easy to care for. But it sheds a lot.
Nature of the Kuvasz
As a herd guard dog, the “white giant” is a very independently acting, highly intelligent guard dog. It is extremely territorial, alert, and defensive. It is suspicious of strangers and hardly tolerates strange dogs in its territory.
The spirited Kuvasz is not a dog for beginners. It is only subordinate to clear leadership and must be brought up with a lot of empathy and expertise. A lovingly and patiently raised Kuvasz, who has been well-socialized since puppyhood, makes an extremely loyal and affectionate companion. However, blind obedience should not be expected from the self-confident Kuvasz.
The Kuvasz needs plenty of living space – ideally a home with a large, fenced yard to guard. It loves outdoor exercise and needs exercise – but it is not suitable for dog sports activities due to its strong personality.