The Hungarian Kuvasz is among the oldest of all the dog breeds, dating back some 7,000 years. It is believed that he is descended from the Tibetan Mastiff and may be related to the Great Pyrenees and Maremma. He was a favourite guard dog for nobility and was also used for hunting, herding and protecting livestock, which he still does today.
During World War II, the breed became almost extinct in Hungary. However, after the war, efforts by dedicated breeders in Hungary and other parts of Europe helped re-populate the breed in Hungary.
He is an intelligent, independent dog with strong protective instincts. Loyal and devoted to his family, he will face any threat in order to protect them. He is easily trained and said to have great stamina. The Kuvasz is a strong and muscular dog that needs lots of outdoor exercise and is best suited to country living.
The Kuvasz has a lustrous, pure white or ivory, coarse double coat. The undercoat is soft and the outercoat longer and can range from almost straight to wavy but not curly. The pigment is black and the darker the better. He has almond shaped dark brown eyes and his wedge shaped head is considered to be his most beautiful characteristic.
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Health Issues:
The Kuvasz is generally a very healthy breed with a normal life expectancy of more than 10 years. However, like all breeds of dogs, the Kuvasz is predisposed to some health problems, including:
- Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) — Because of the breed's rapid growth and large size, the Kuvasz is prone to such developmental problems. Improper nutrition or trauma may be contributing factors to this disorder.
- Hip Dysplasia — Like the majority of the large breed dogs, the Kuvasz is susceptible to Canine Hip Dysplasia.
- Gastric Torsion (Bloat) — As with many large breeds, the occurrence of Bloat or Gastric Torsion is a real possibility in the Kuvasz. If you are not familiar with this condition, it is absolutely necessary to learn about it and know the symptoms — This is a real emergency and a life threatening condition that requires immediate Veterinary attention. See Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) — Bloat in the Health and Nutrition section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for more information and First Aid for Bloat for an article describing some of the things you can do if you are faced with this situation.
If you are considering the adoption of a Kuvasz puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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AKC KUVASZ VIDEO
17 Min. Video Edition Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com |
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Grooming Information:
The Kuvasz has an easy to care for coat. Shedding occurs in the Spring and Fall along with low level shedding during the rest of the year. When the coat is dry, most soil will simply brush out. It is important not to bathe too often as this can result in the removal of the natural oils.
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training the Kuvasz:
Early obedience training and socialization for the Kuvasz is an absolute necessity. With the Kuvasz's natural protective instinct it is imperative that he learn to discriminate between what is a threat and what is simply something new or unusual. Socialization will not train out this instinct. He must be exposed to various situations and meet new people, both in and out of his home. A Kuvasz who does not receive proper socialization may feel that anything outside of his immediate family and everyday surroundings are a potential threat.
The best training method for the Kuvasz is firm, consistent, positive reinforcement. Training methods based on the physical will challenge the dog and harsh punishment will not accomplish anything. In fact, the Kuvasz that is harshly or unfairly treated may utlimately respond to this in an aggressive manner.
Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Kuvasz, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
- Starting the LGD Pup
by Catherine de la Cruz
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Additional Information:
