Kuvasz (Hungarian Kuvasz)

Large and strong, the Kuvasz—also called the Hungarian Kuvasz—has a rich history dating back to Hungary. These canines, who are valued family companions and protectors today, were originally bred to guard livestock. They are renowned for their strength, loyalty, and intelligence.

Kuvaszok, with their striking white coats and self-assured manner, are a sight to behold. They make great watchdogs because they are inherently protective and have a tendency to think for themselves. But they also have a soft side, especially when it comes to people they trust.

Since Kuvasz can be protective of strangers due to their innate socialization and training instincts, owning one requires a commitment to appropriate training. Nonetheless, a Kuvasz can be a faithful and affectionate friend for the correct household, fusing bravery with a composed and even-tempered nature.

Information about the breed

Photo of a Kuvasz

Characteristics

Interesting facts and features

• With a difficult temperament, calm, but at the same time cold;
• With proper upbringing, it grows up to be a balanced and good friend;
• It treats other animals with indifference, but can argue with a dog of the same sex;
• It always remains loyal to its owner, but it must be raised and trained by a person with experience;
• During training, it can show stubbornness and independence.

History of origin

One theory holds that during the Great Migration of peoples, the Kuvasz made their way to Hungary. However, there are also claims that the breed is related to the Turkish Akabash and has Tibetan ancestry.

It is frequently confused with the Komondor in the written sources that have survived to us, but the authors usually state whether the animal had long or short hair. The Kuvasz can move through the thickets with ease because of its short hair.

The breed’s first recognized exhibition was held in 1863. She appealed to breeders as well as amateurs who just needed a guard and a shepherd. However, the Kuvasz gene pool was significantly reduced by the Second World War. Its continued lack of popularity is primarily due to its complicated temperament.

Large, strong, and devoted, the Kuvasz, also known as the Hungarian Kuvasz, is renowned for its protective tendencies and kind disposition toward family members. This intelligent, self-reliant breed was originally developed as a livestock guard dog. It needs a knowledgeable owner who can provide it with firm but compassionate leadership. For families with enough room and time to accommodate them, Kuvasz dogs make wonderful family pets because they are loving companions despite their size and strength.

Appearance

The Kuvasz is a powerful, noble-looking machine with a well-defined build. Its round, large head has a tapering muzzle that ends at the nose. Steep stop. The almond-shaped, obliquely set eyes are dark in color. On the head, the hanging ears are positioned low. When a dog is alert, they stand up and take on the form of the English letter "V."

The body has a long back that tapers into a powerful, short loin. It’s a deep chest. The abdomen is drawn in. Reaching the hocks, the tail is positioned low on the croup. The front legs are positioned obliquely, with long shoulder blades and dry, muscular forearms. Fingers covered in short hair and paws gathered into a lump. The hind legs have large, long hocks and are straight with distinct angles. Notably, the hind paws are shorter than the front ones. Usually, detowers are removed.

The coat of the Kuvasz is thick, wavy, and hard. An undercoat is present. It is ivory or white in color.

Character

The Kuvasz is a calm, balanced, and reserved animal by nature. Naturally, he tries not to waste energy again, but he will gladly play with other dogs or go for a walk with his owner. And keeping watch over the entrusted area is the best task for him.

He is distrustful of strangers and occasionally displays aggression, but there are good reasons for this. When it comes to the other animals that share his roof, he acts coldly. However, he is skilled at classifying people, including cats and birds, as "his" or "strangers."

Stays devoted to its owner. If not, early socialization and education will determine the Kuvasz’s character. Articles about a killer dog only surface when the animal is handled incorrectly, in which case the person is solely responsible. Your pet will grow up to be a good friend and guard if you give it proper care.

Education and training

Training the Hungarian Kuvasz is simple. In a matter of days, it can pick up a new command and work tirelessly. Perceptive and witty.

However, it should be highlighted that this breed is best suited for an experienced owner who is familiar with the temperament and psychology of his pet. Since Kuvasz is independent, a strategy must be developed. Furthermore, rudeness is not tolerated. However, affection and praise for well-behaved behavior serve as additional motivation for it to strive even harder.

For this breed, early socialization is also crucial. Introduce the puppy to new people, animals, sounds, and scents gradually. It shouldn’t act aggressively or fearfully in an unknown circumstance.

Care

It is necessary for you to walk the Kuvasz twice a day, even if you own your home. However, this should be an active rest period that includes games, training, and command repetition rather than just a stroll. Your pet will eventually begin to feel under the weather if you don’t take it outside much. It is also capable of running away.

It is possible to keep it in an apartment, but only if it is very big. The Kuvasz needs a designated area of its own. However, since the dog will be able to reach its full security potential in a house, this option is preferable.

The Hungarian Kuvasz needs to be bathed as needed. Additionally, because its fur is prone to matting, brush it every day. It’s also important to remember that this breed sheds a lot.

If the dog is apartment-dwelling, then trimming the claws is advised. In other situations, they wear down by themselves. The eyes and ears need to be checked on a regular basis. To take care of them, use a clean cloth and some lotion from the pharmacy. The eye’s mucous membrane can be cleansed as a prophylactic using a chamomile infusion. Get in touch with your veterinarian if you observe any strange discharge, redness, or other illness-related symptoms.

Nutrition

You have the option of natural food or premium, higher class dry food for active breeds. Increase the amount of protein in your pet’s diet in the second scenario. Lean meat, offal, boneless sea fish, and eggs are examples of this. Give fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and porridge in addition.

We advise discussing vitamin and mineral supplements with the owner. Don’t forget to include fresh water as well.

Health

The Kuvasz is most frequently afflicted with the following illnesses:

1. Joint dysplasia;
2. Cataracts;
3. Glaucoma;
4. Thyroid insufficiency.

Your pet can be kept healthy and disease-free with regular vet visits, proper diet, and care. And if they do show up, treat or manage them. You should not disregard the dog’s poor health or attempt to treat it yourself.

Choosing a puppy

On the internet or at the market, you should never purchase a Kuvasz from an unknown seller. If you lack experience, you might select a sick puppy or a crossbreed and then be unsure of what to do with it.

An expert nursery is the ideal solution!

Here are a few more helpful pointers:

1. Meet in person or find out more about the puppy"s parents – how old they are, how many births the mother has had in a year, what illnesses they have had, their character and achievements;
2. Pay attention to the conditions of keeping in the nursery, they also affect the health and psyche of the animal;
3. Observe how the puppy you like behaves with you and other Kuvasz;
4. Choose an active, curious and sociable one. Aggression or lethargy are bad signs;
5. Examine the baby for diseases. It should have clean eyes, ears and nose. The coat is uniform and without bald spots. Weight according to number;
6. Check all documents – pedigree, passport, vaccination records.

How much does a Kuvasz puppy cost?

A Kuvasz puppy can cost anywhere between 50,000 and 150,000 rubles.

The Kuvasz is a distinct and devoted breed distinguished by its strong familial bonds and protective tendencies. This big, strong dog was originally bred to be a guard dog. It is brave and smart. For seasoned dog owners, they make wonderful companions with the right training and socialization.

Kuvasz dogs are kind and gentle with their loved ones, but they can be independent and reserved around strangers. For them to remain healthy and happy, they require lots of room to roam around and regular exercise. To maintain the best possible condition, their thick coat also needs regular grooming.

The Kuvasz could be a fantastic option if you’re searching for a dog that will defend your house and exhibit unwavering loyalty. But because they have a strong will, they need owners who can give them firm but loving guidance.

Video on the topic

HUNGARIAN KUVASZ

HUNGARIAN KUVASZ

Radogosh – Day Watch – Hungarian Kuvasz Uma

Hungarian Kuvasz (dog breed): description

Dog breed. Hungarian Kuvasz. A very old dog breed