The Hovawart: A loyal protector with heart and mind
History of the Hovawart
The Hovawart has a long and proud history. The name "Hovawart" comes from Middle High German and means "court guard". These dogs were already used in the Middle Ages to guard farms and castles. They were characterized by their vigilance, courage and loyalty. In the 20th century, targeted breeding began in order to preserve and improve the original characteristics of the Hovawart. Today, the Hovawart is a recognized breed listed by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) in Group 2 (Pinschers and Schnauzers, Molossoids, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs and other breeds).
Who is the Hovawart suitable for?
The Hovawart is ideal for active people who spend a lot of time outdoors and can offer their dog sufficient activity. It is particularly suitable for families as it is very child-friendly and forms a close bond with its owner. Its protective instinct makes it an excellent guard dog. The Hovawart is less suitable for keeping in a city apartment as it needs a lot of exercise and mental activity.
Character of the Hovawart
The Hovawart is known for its balanced and friendly character. It is very affectionate, loyal and protective of its family. At the same time, he is intelligent and eager to learn, which makes him an excellent companion for dog sports such as agility or obedience. He can be suspicious of strangers at first, but does not show any aggression.
Appearance of the Hovawart
The Hovawart is a strong, medium-sized dog with a harmonious build. Its coat is long, slightly wavy and comes in the colors black, blond and black markings. The males reach a shoulder height of 63 to 70 cm and a weight of 30 to 40 kg, while the females are somewhat smaller and lighter.
Care of the Hovawart
Grooming the Hovawart is relatively easy, but its long coat requires regular brushing to avoid matting. It should be brushed more frequently, especially during the shedding season. Another important aspect of grooming is regularly checking the ears and teeth and trimming the claws.
Health of the Hovawart
The Hovawart is generally a healthy and robust breed. Nevertheless, you should watch out for typical diseases such as hip dysplasia, which is more common in larger dog breeds. Regular veterinary examinations and a balanced diet contribute to the Hovawart's health and longevity.
Exercise and exercise
The Hovawart needs plenty of exercise and mental exercise. Daily walks, play and training sessions are essential to keep this active dog happy and healthy. He is excellent at dog sports and loves to do chores. A home with a garden or access to large green spaces would be ideal.
Training recommendations
Thanks to its intelligence and eagerness to learn, the Hovawart is easy to train. Positive reinforcement and consistent but loving training are the key to success. Early socialization and regular training help to control its protective instincts and make it a well-mannered member of the family.
Behavior with children and other animals
The Hovawart is known for its patience and gentleness with children. It can be a loving and playful companion while offering protection. The Hovawart generally gets along well with other animals, especially if it is socialized early on. Nevertheless, individual character traits and the right introduction should always be taken into account.
