While the Kuvasz (or Kuvaszok) dog breed may not be all that well known in the United States, their reputation as an amazing animal is well known throughout their homeland of Hungary.
Which is why…
It doesn’t surprise us one bit why those in the “know” might be interested in learning a little bit more about these dogs so that if they ever get the opportunity to own one, they’ll know for sure if it’s a good idea.
After all…
Every “type” of dog out there is going to have their own unique personality and traits that may make them perfect for one family and totally incompatible for another!
And…
The last thing that we want to have happen here at IndulgeYourPet is for the “right” dog to end up in the “wrong” house. So, without further ado, let’s learn a little bit more about the Hungarian Kuvasz so that you can decide for yourself if he or she is going to be right for you!
Hungarian Kuvasz Dog Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: Hungary
Original Purpose: Guardian, large game hunter
Height: 26 to 30 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 70 to 115 pounds
Dog Breed Classification: Working group
Life Span: 8 to 10 years
Origin of the Kuvasz Dog Breed
Like most “ancient” dog breeds there tends to be several competing theories about the true origin of their existence, but in the case of the Kuvasz, most experts seem to agree that they “probably” first originated in Tibet, thousands of years ago and where simply brought to Hungary by the Magyar Tribes who invaded Hungary over 1000 years ago.
At least…
That seems like the most probable origin of the Kuvasz dog breed. What is known for use is that by the 15th century, the Kuvasz dog breed was highly respected and valued in Hungary. In fact, it was King Mathias, who ruled Hungary in the 15th century who was largely responsible for the development of the modern day Kuvasz that we all know today.
During this time…
These dogs were first used the noble elite to sever as large game hunting animals as well as defenders of large estates. Over time, these dogs eventually made their way into the hands of the “common folk” where they then began to take on roles including helping around the farm and with managing livestock.
Unfortunately…
As the need for large game hunters and farm animals declined, so too did the popularity of the Kuvasz began to decline. This coupled with start of the first and second World War’s which in general decimated many domesticated animals all throughout the European continent during the first half of the 19th century significantly reduced the number of Kuvasz in the world nearly causing the breed to go extinct entirely.
Fortunately…
Enough of these animals did survive allowing the breed to regain in strength and numbers which ultimately led to their “official” recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1935.
Physical Characteristics
The Kuvasz is clearly a large breed. He can reach up to 30 inches in height at the shoulder level and weighs up to 115 pounds. He has a very muscular physique and moves around with speed and elegance. Which is only made more impressive by the fact that in addition to all of this strength, these guys are also blessed with amazing stamina too boot!
That said however…
The Kuvasz, is most recognizable by their white fur. White fur that consists of a medium-coarse texture that can either be wavy or straight. And since they come from an environment that can get quite cold, these big guys are blessed with a thick double coat gives him protection against the harsh winter cold of Hungary and makes him capable of working outdoors. A thick double coat that will need to be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week.
Temperament and Personality
The Kuvaszok puppies are fun and playful, but they get very serious as they get older. These dogs are always calm and gentle, but aggressive when need be.
The Kuvasz is…
Also, a very detached, independent dog, who doesn’t mess around. You have to supervise him with children and take him on long walks as he is a very active dog and hates it when he doesn’t get enough exercise.
He is a dog that demands respect…
The Kuvasz is respectful, but only as long as he gets respected in return. He is very gentle with his human family and kind and generous to the children. But he likes to be left alone. He is a warrior after all, and not a toy dog.
These guys will…
Fight for you and protect your family if and when you’re under attack. He is brave, courageous and loyal, and will follow you to absolutely anywhere.
Socialization and Training
The training and socialization of the Kuvasz puppy should begin as soon as possible. This early socialization ensures that the Kuvasz is comfortable around strangers, and is not unnecessarily aggressive towards them.
Kuvasz Health Problems
Like with most purebred dogs, the Kuvasz dog breed can be susceptible to certain genetic medical conditions that you will want to be aware of before adopting a Kuvasz puppy or Kuvasz rescue dog. This is why we only recommend that folks adopt an animal from a responsible dog breed or a reputable rescue center so that you don’t end up adopting a sick animal or supporting an industry that is taking advantage of their animals.
That said…
When considering adopting a Kuvasz, you’ll definitely want to ask about where or not the dog you are considering has any family history of:
This way, you’ll have an idea about what “risk” level your dog may have for developing any one of these conditions later in life.
And while…
Many of these conditions may not be life threatening, they can certainly become quite expensive to deal with particularly if they become recurring issues.
This is why…
We here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be right for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
