Family:
Breed Group: Flock Guard, AKC Working
Origin: Hungary
Date of Origin: Ancient
Originally used for: Companions, guard dogs
Used today: Companions
Other Name(s): Hungarian Kuvasz
History of the Breed: The Kuvasz is an ancient large breed, the Turkish word kawasz means "armed guard of the nobility." These dogs were
originally used by the noble class and served as companions to many rulers. Later in history they were used as guard dogs by shepherds to protect
livestock from predators. The Kuvasz were first shown at a dog show in 1883. Count d'Esterházy, a strong supporter of the breed, displayed two
Kuvaszok in Vienna in that year.
General Appearance: A large breed, the head considered to be the most beautiful part of the Kuvasz, has a skull that is elongated but
not pointed and with a defined stop. The cheeks are flat, the muzzle length is in proportion to the length of the head, the underjaw is well
developed. The nose is large, black, with opened nostrils. The eyes are almond-shaped, set well apart and dark brown. The ears are thick, V-shaped,
with the tip slightly rounded. The ears are well set back between the level of the eye and the top of the head. The inner edge of the ear lies
close to the cheek. The medium length neck is muscular, arched at the crest. The back is of medium length, straight, firm and quite broad. The
loin is short, muscular and tight. The croup well muscled, slightly sloping. Forechest is well developed. When viewed from the side, the forechest
protrudes slightly in front of the shoulders. The chest is deep with long, well-sprung ribs reaching almost to the elbows. The tail is carried low
and reaches to the hocks. when excited, the tail is elevated to the level of the loin, with the tip slightly curved up. The outer coat is white,
long and can range from almost straight to wavy. The head, ears, and paws are covered with short, smooth hair. The neck has a mane that
extends to the chest.
Height & Weight:
Height 26-31 Inches
Weight 70-120 Pounds
Coat: A double coat with a soft undercoat, a longer outer coat which can range from almost straight to wavy.
The head, muzzle, ears and paws are covered with short, smooth hair. The neck has a mane that extends to the chest.
Color: White
Grooming needs: Low, the Kuvasz coat is easy to care for.
Temperament of Breed: The temperament is typical of the flock guardian breeds. Most Kuvasz owners recommend group obedience classes
Friendly with children: Yes
Friendly with other dogs: This breed can be dominant with other dogs. Socialization is recommended starting at an early age.
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: Medium
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Hip dysplasia
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 11-13 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 130
First Registered by the AKC: 1931
Registries: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, CKC, NKC, KCA, AKA, ANKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCA -Kennel Club of America
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Kuvasz Club of America
Kuvasz Club of Canada, Inc.
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