Kuvasz Outside Enjoying the Snow
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Kuvasz Dog Breed

Other names:
Hungarian Kuvasz
Kuvaszok
Magyar Kuvasz

The Kuvasz (plural: Kuvaszok) is a large to giant sized purebred dog that originated in Hungary around 900 A.D. The breed makes an excellent guard and watch dog and are incredibly loyal to anyone they consider a family member. Kuvasz are good family dogs, but are independant which can make training difficult.

Since the breed was bred to protect families and livestock from wolves, coyotes, and other predators you can expect Kuvasz to be wary of any potential threat to their family. Because of this, it is important to train and socialize Kuvasz at an early age to help reduce tension with strangers and other animals.

Kuvasz Breed Details

A member of the Working group of breeds, the Kuvasz dog breed was developed in Hungary centuries ago to be a livestock, property, and personal guardian; because of this history, these dogs are loyal to their families--and usually mistrustful of everyone else. Kuvaszok are best suited for experienced, active owners willing to provide their dogs with plenty of training, care, and companionship.

A few breed facts: Kuvaszok are large-sized, averaging 28 inches at the shoulders in height and 95 pounds in weight, with males being a good bit larger than females. They have medium- to long-haired, thick, double-layered coats that are white in color. Some good (and not so good) qualities of the breed:

Pros
Protective and affectionate with family members
Fairly easy to groom
Intelligent and independent
Playful and active with loved ones
Fantastic guard and watchdog skills
Excellent work ethic
Good with children, especially if raised with them
Adapts very well to cold climates
Good overall health record
Cons
Can be stubborn and headstrong
Suspicious of and often aggressive toward unknown people; a Kuvasz attack on strangers is not uncommon
Difficult to train
Not suited for apartment life
Sheds a good bit
Will turn destructive and aggressive if left alone for long periods
Doesn't do well in hot weather
Not recommended for first-time owners
High potential for obesity
Extensive exercise needs
Type
Purebred
Lifespan
10 - 12 yrs.
Height
26 - 30 in.
Weight
100 - 115 lbs
Friendliness
OverallFamily FriendlyChild FriendlyPet FriendlyStranger Friendly
Maintenance
Easy to GroomEnergy LevelExercise NeedsHealthShedding Amount
Behavior
Barks / HowlsEasy to TrainGuard DogPlayfulnessWatch Dog
Ownership
Apartment DogCan be AloneGood for Busy OwnersGood for New OwnersIntelligence

Kuvasz Temperament

Protective, independent, intelligent, sometimes stubborn, and possibly aggressive, the Kuvasz temperament is one of loyalty, love, and boldness. Kuvaszok dearly love their immediate circle--and are fiercely protective of them! These dogs will definitely need obedience training and socialization (starting in puppyhood, if possible) to minimize aggressive behavior--but they'll still need close supervision at all times when around unknown people and animals. Kuvaszok can be good playmates for kids, especially if they grow up together--but breed members may be domineering with other pets, particularly other dogs.

The Kuvasz personality combines independence and intelligence, which usually makes training difficult with these dogs. Owners will need to use consistent, patient training methods for their Kuvaszok--and it's best not to "push" them if they don't want to learn.

On the flip side, a Kuvasz is an excellent watchdog. The breed is alert and loyal, and will deter any potential threats or intruders either by scaring them away by its size alone, or by physically neutralizing the threat.

Kuvasz Health

The rugged Kuvasz dog has few health issues common to the breed. Though your Kuvasz may live a full 10-12 years will no problems, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the following:

  • Eye disease such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Hip dysplasia and other joint disorder
  • Thyroid disease
  • Bloat

Some things you can do to ensure the best health for your Kuvasz puppy include: do your research to find a reputable breeder, make regular veterinary appointments, brush your Kuvasz teeth weekly, brush the coat frequently.

Kuvasz Health Concerns

Below are potential health concerns associated with Kuvasz.

Bloat
Hip dysplasia
Hypertrophic osteodystrophy
Thyroid disorders
Eye diseases
Osteochondrosis

About this Article

Authored by:Dog-Learn
Updated:March 1, 2019
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