Kuvasz

Appearance:

Body: Large, muscular, well-balanced, and medium-boned, with a deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and well laid back shoulders sloping towards the rear.

Coat: Double-coated with a somewhat coarse, wavy or straight, outer coat and a fine undercoat.

Color: White

Ears: Small and natural, v-shaped, rounded tips, set back and high, and hung close to the cheeks.

Eyes: Almond-shaped, dark colored, wide set and oblique (slanted with outer corners higher than inner corners).

Feet: Round, cat-like, and well padded. Hind feet are slightly longer than forefeet.

Head: Proportionate with a well-defined skull and tapering muzzle.

Legs: Forelegs are straight, strong, and medium-boned. Hindquarters muscular with long, strong hocks.

Neck: Moderately long, well-muscled, and arched.

Size:
Weight: 70 - 115 pounds
Height: 24 - 28 inches

Tail: Low set and natural.

Behavior

Recommended for experienced dog handlers
Best as the only family dog
Can be aggressive
A nighttime barker

The Kuvasz is a large, powerful, assertive dog, but also quiet, curious, and exceptionally loyal to his master. He will adamantly defend and protect the children, adults, and pets in his own family, to the death if necessary.

His strong, solid build, muscular body, intelligent, suspicious mind, and quick, light footed gait make him a formidable guard dog. He is bred to work without the presence of his master and is capable of making his own decisions of who is friend and who is foe.

Early obedience training and constant socialization are a must. His owner must be firm and respectful, positive and confident but never harsh or abusive. The Kuvasz is a sensitive breed and won't accept or tolerate a punishing style of training. He is intelligent and will become bored with repetition and non-challenging training exercises.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Working Group

Originally bred to guard livestock.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate exercise with daily walks and a romp in the yard. He should be allowed plenty of well fenced in property to play in and stake as his own territory to protect.

Grooming: Brush two to three times weekly; daily during shedding season (spring and fall).

Health

Life Expectancy: 12 Years

Possible Problems:
Deafness
Hip Dysplasia
vWD - blood disorder

He may be sensitive to anesthetics and other chemical related drugs. Be sure to check with your veterinarian before administering flea and tick controlling medications.

Recommended Certificates:
CERF - for the eyes
OFA - for the hips

Country of Origin

Hungary