The Hovawart is a large, powerful dog with a long, flowing coat and a noble expression.

Males

Males

Long, slightly wavy, and close-lying with a moderate undercoat

Black, black and gold, blonde

Broad, with a strong stop and a well-defined muzzle

Bushy and reaches below the hocks, carried low when relaxed and high over the back when alert

Hovawarts are known for their confident, loyal, and even-tempered nature, making them excellent watchdogs and family companions.

Deeply devoted to their family and form strong bonds.

Naturally inclined to guard their home and loved ones, but not overly aggressive.

Highly intelligent and capable of learning complex tasks.

Generally calm and composed, with a good balance of energy and relaxation.

Watchful and aware of their surroundings, making them excellent watchdogs.

Hovawarts are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training, ample exercise, and a loving, structured environment.

Adaptable to various living situations with sufficient exercise.

Need early socialization to prevent potential behavioral problems.

The ideal Hovawart owner is an active individual or family with experience in dog training, who can provide a structured environment and dedicate time to meeting the breed's physical and mental needs. They are a rewarding breed for those who can commit to their well-being.

Hovawarts require regular grooming, a balanced diet, and a suitable living environment that accommodates their size and energy.

Brush 2-3 times a week to prevent matting; more frequent brushing during shedding seasons.

Bathe only as needed, usually every few months, unless they get particularly dirty.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Best suited to homes with ample space, preferably with a securely fenced yard.

Trim nails regularly, usually every 1-2 weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Hovawarts are intelligent but can be independent, requiring consistent training and ample exercise to thrive.

Hovawarts are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods. However, their independent nature requires a firm and consistent approach. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for developing a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog. They excel in various canine activities, including obedience, tracking, and protection work.

This breed has high energy levels and requires substantial daily exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. Long walks, jogging, hiking, and interactive play sessions are essential. A large, securely fenced yard is beneficial, allowing them space to roam and explore. Mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or training activities, is equally important.

Maintain a consistent training routine from puppyhood to reinforce good behavior.

Use positive methods like treats and praise to motivate and reward.

Expose your Hovawart to various people, dogs, and environments early on.

Provide challenging activities to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Be patient and understanding, as their independent streak may require extra effort.

Hovawarts are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions.

A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.

A group of degenerative eye diseases that can eventually lead to blindness.

The Hovawart's roots trace back to medieval Germany. The name itself means "guardian of the estate" in Middle High German. Depictions of similar dogs appear in writings and artwork from that era, suggesting a long history of use as farm guardians and protectors. After World War I, enthusiasts, notably Kurt Friedrich König, worked to revive the breed using similar farm dogs, along with breeds like the German Shepherd Dog, Leonberger, and possibly the Bernese Mountain Dog and African Wild Dog. The Hovawart was officially recognized by the German Kennel Club (VDH) in 1937. While gaining popularity in Europe, it remains relatively uncommon in other parts of the world.

Yes, when properly socialized and trained, Hovawarts are generally good with children. They are known for their gentle and patient nature, but supervision is always recommended with any large breed.

Hovawarts are alert watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners to anything unusual. However, they are not typically excessive barkers. Proper training can help manage barking tendencies.

Hovawarts need a significant amount of exercise, ideally at least 1-2 hours per day. This can include long walks, jogging, hiking, and interactive play sessions.

Hovawarts have a long, flowing coat that requires regular brushing, 2-3 times a week, to prevent matting. They shed moderately, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

Hovawarts are generally not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their independent nature and training requirements. Experienced owners who can provide consistent leadership and training are better suited for this breed.

With proper socialization, Hovawarts can get along well with other dogs. Early exposure to various dogs and positive interactions are crucial for developing good social skills.

The average lifespan of a Hovawart is 10-14 years.

While any dog can experience separation anxiety, Hovawarts, with their strong bond to their families, may be more prone to it if not properly trained and exercised. Providing mental stimulation and a consistent routine can help mitigate this.

It's crucial to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and temperament of their dogs. Look for breeders who are members of recognized Hovawart breed clubs and who conduct health screenings on their breeding stock. Be prepared to ask questions and potentially be placed on a waiting list, as Hovawarts are not a very common breed.

While a Hovawart would thrive best in a home with a yard, they *can* adapt to apartment living *if* their exercise needs are consistently met. This would necessitate a dedicated owner committed to multiple long walks and play sessions daily, regardless of weather.