The Kuvasz is a dog breed of ancient Hungarian origin. The word is, contrary to some theories, not of Sumerian origin. These dogs are used to guard livestock. Mention of the breed can be found in old Hungarian texts.
History: Some authors claim that the Kuvasz has been known since the age of the Huns. Others describe it as a sheepdog that accompanied the Turkish refugees and their flocks fleeing the Mongols into Hungary in 1200. Its name in Turkish means “protector.” The Kuvasz had its great moment of splendor in the fifteenth century in the court of King Matyas I, who lived from 1458-1490. The King claimed to trust only his Kuvasz dogs and not people. The first written reference to the Kuvasz comes in the 16th century. Later the Kuvasz became popular as a village flock guardian.
Appearance: It is a working dog of larger size, sturdily built, medium boned, well muscled, without the slightest hint of bulkiness or lethargy. It has a free and easy gait with legs angled farther inward the faster it goes – at top velocity, it virtually single-tracks. Head and tail are carried low except when the dog is excited. The muzzle tapers slightly to a black nose, but is not pointed. The ears are folded and close to the head, and the eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown. The coat is medium-length, either straight or quite wavy, with a thick undercoat. It forms an abundant mane around the neck and chest. Though the dog is white, it is pigmented with grey or black.
Size: Height: dogs 28-30 inches (71-76cm); bitches 26-28 inches (66-71 cm)
Weight: dogs 100-115 pounds (45-52kg); bitches 70-90 pounds (32-41kg)
Temperament: The Kuvasz is very protective and will not hesitate to guard its home. In general, this is a one family kind of dog. It is courageous and intelligent and never fully lets down its instinctive guard dog ability. The Kuvasz can be a fiercely loyal pet who appreciates attention but may also be somewhat aloof or independent, particularly with strangers. As for barking, the Kuvasz has been described by some as quiet while others say it is a notorious barker. Very good with children in its own family, the kuvasz is sometimes untrustworthy with others. Visiting children who roughhouse with family children may be victims of the dog’s protective instinct.
Health: Prone to hip dysplasia. Some minor issues are osteochondritis dissecans (a disease causing lameness from inflammation of the shoulder joints), hypertrophic osteodystrophy, panosteitis, skin problems and allergic reactions.
Life expectancy: 9 – 12 years
Grooming: Avoid bathing this breed, as the coat naturally sheds dirt and bathing will remove the oils that give the coat this property. The more you bathe this dog the more it will need to be bathed! Instead of bathing, the dog should be brushed frequently. The Kuvasz should be brushed on a regular basis all the way down to the undercoat. This will remove excess hair during shedding, and will keep the hair free from mats.
Puppy price: $900.00