The Kuvasz is an ancient breed originally from Tibet. Farmers in the region of modern-day Hungary utilized these dogs to guard livestock. The name comes from kawasz, a Turkish word that means “armed guard of nobility.”
In 1883, the Kuvaszok made their first European appearance in a dog show in Vienna. Unfortunately, the breed neared extinction after World War II. A factory owner wanted to utilize them as guard dogs and could not find more than 30, which is an example of how dangerously close to extinction they came. However, with some dedicated breeders, the factory owner worked hard to revive the breed.
Kuvasz Breed Standard
This is a large, rugged dog with slightly rectangular proportions and moderate bone, covered in an abundance of white. They possess a muscular neck; a straight, broad back; and a well-developed forechest. The tail reaches to the hock and hangs low. The dog’s wedge-shaped head is long with flat cheeks, a well-developed underjaw, and a black nose. Their eyes are wide-set, dark, and almond-shaped. Its ears are v-shaped, slightly rounded, and hang close to the head.
Kuvasz Temperament
Centuries of livestock guarding has instilled this breed with courage, boldness, and independence. With proper socialization, Kuvaszok are polite and tolerant of strangers, and they are wholly devoted to protecting their territory and pack. These dogs are determined, assertive, and noted for their loyalty, and they need an equally strong and consistent leader. The breed grows quickly but matures slowly. Kuvasz dogs are sensitive to praise and do not easily forget mistreatment. They respond well to positive reinforcement, and early socialization and obedience training are essential. Forceful training, however, can lead to aggressive behavior.
Do not let the sweet looks fool you; this dog is a fierce protector that would fearlessly defend its family and home. Kuvaszok are very protective of children in their own family and gentle with other pets and livestock. However, they can be aggressive toward unfamiliar dogs.
Breed Facts
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Activity level: breeders created these dogs to patrol rough terrain tirelessly and to be nearly impervious to bad weather. The Kuvasz needs daily hard running in an enclosed area with fencing at least 5 to 6 feet high. Growing puppies should avoid very strenuous exercise.
- Popularity: Very rare
- Family: Livestock Dog, Flockguard
- Area of origin: Hungary
- Date of origin: Middle Ages
- Original function: Guardian, hunting large game
- Today’s function: Sheep guardian, guardian
- Other name: Hungarian Kuvasz
Grooming: brush weekly with a pin brush, bathe regularly, and trim the feet as needed.
- Coat: double coat with coarse, straight or slightly wavy guard hair and a short, fine undercoat. Shorter on head, muzzle, ears, feet and fronts of legs; feathering on backs of legs, a mane on the neck, and 4–6 inches of coat on the tail.
- Color: white
Health
- Major concerns: CHD, OCD
- Minor concerns: hypothyroidism
- Occasionally seen: panosteitis, HOD
- Suggested tests: hip, elbow, thyroid
- Life span: 9–12 years
- Weight: males 100–115 lb; females 70–90 lb
- Height: males 28–30 in; females 26–28 in
Kuvasz Breeder and Buying Advice
Meet the parents to gauge the puppy’s temperament. A reputable breeder is the only source from which you should obtain a puppy. Also consider an adult or rescue Kuvasz.
- Parent club: Kuvasz Club of America (www.kuvaszclubofamerica.org)
- Kuvasz price: adopting a Kuvasz will usually be far cheaper than buying from a breeder (around $300). Because the breed is rare, purchasing from a reputable breeder can range from roughly $3,000 up to $10,000 depending on bloodlines and location.
