Hovawart Dogs & Puppies

• Energy Level

• Exercise Requirements

• Playfulness

• Affection Level

• Friendliness to Dogs

• Friendliness to Other Pets

• Friendliness to Strangers

• Watchfulness

• Ease of Training

• Grooming Requirements

• Heat Sensitivity

• Vocality

Intelligent and naturally protective, the Hovawart thrives on having a job to do, whether guarding the home or livestock, or participating in search and rescue organizations, therapy dog activities, obedience or agility trials, flyball, or service dog training. Kind and even-tempered, the Hovawart bonds closely with his human family. He should be properly trained and socialized from puppyhood. Because the breed requires a substantial amount of time and attention from his master, the Hovawart is not recommended for rookie dog owners.

Besides the occasional bath and brushing, the Hovawart doesn’t require much grooming. His nails should be trimmed regularly, as should his ears be cleaned and teeth brushed. The Hovawart needs regular exercise — this large breed thrives on room to run, and his preferred exercise would be free play in a large fenced yard, as well as going on hikes and taking trips to the dog park. At minimum, he should be taken on a long walk, as well as several shorter walks, daily.

• Major Concerns: N/A
• Minor Concerns: N/A
• Occasionally Seen: Hip dysplasia
• Suggested Tests: Hips
• Lifespan: 10 to 14 years

An old German working breed, the Hovawart is primarily used as a yard and farm watchdog. His name originated in the old German language called Middle High German, in which “Hova,” or “Hof,” means yard or farm, and “wart,” or “Wächter,” translates to watchman. The Hovawart nearly became extinct in the early 20th century, but was restored by cross-breedings of German Shepherd Dogs, Newfoundlands, Leonbergers and other similar breeds until the original working type was attained. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale accepted the Hovawart in 1937. The breed was almost lost again during World War II, but was again revived due to various breeding groups’ efforts to sustain the stringent breeding regulations of these hardworking dogs. The Hovawart has been recognized by the United Kennel Club as a member of its Guardian Dog Group since 1996 and recorded with the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service since 2010.