Germany
An estate or castle guard dog.
Working
Bitch 58-65cm., Dog 63-70cm.
25-40kg.
10-14 years
Although the Hovawart will adapt to city life they do need regular, long walks combined with play sessions. They are excellent trackers, and can be involved in search and rescue, man-work and agility.
No special feeding requirements. This dog has a large appetite and can be expensive to feed adequately.
A strong, robust, and generally healthy dog. They can be prone to hip dysplasia.
The Hovawart is a strong, compact dog with a powerful appearance. The head is large with strong jaws and dark eyes. The body is muscular and well proportioned. The tail is carried low and is well feathered. The coat is long haired, flat and wavy. The Hovawart comes in black, black/tan, solid blond, and any of these with lighter markings. Overall this large dog looks strong, confident, playful and intelligent.
Hovawart K9 Obedience Dog Breed Summary:
The Hovie is an affectionate, playful dog that enjoys human company.
One of the rarer breeds, the Hovawart excels as a working dog and is used in search and rescue, tracking, and locating people buried under an avalanche.
They become devoted to their family, sometimes bonding strongly with one person. They are excellent guard dogs and can be highly suspicious of strangers.
Hovies are quick to learn and need a dominant but fair person that is capable of consistent training. Never be heavy handed with this dog as it has a negative effect, and results in mental blocking. The dog will just switch off and refuse to learn anything. In reward training, treats should not be used as this dog obeys from respect and love, not food drive.
A Hovawart that is not given adequate training and mental stimulation will lose confidence becoming shy, timid, and anxious and they can develop fearful aggression.
This dog makes an excellent family pet, big and loving, friendly and protective, they love to be at the heart of family life.
|
