Characteristics of Hovawart dogs with reviews and photos

Hovawarts are powerful working dogs with a slightly elongated body and long, slightly wavy hair. Thanks to their balanced disposition and developed protective instincts, they have gained a reputation as a universal breed and can easily cope with the functions of rescuers, protectors and companions. Let's find out what a Hovawart looks like and what potential owners of this dog should prepare for.

Origin story

The complex name of the breed becomes simple and understandable if you break it down into its component German words: “hova” - yard, farmstead, “wart” - watchman, security guard. Already in the Middle Ages, such dogs selflessly defended both peasant households and the estates of feudal lords. Animals were especially protected by law - a very significant fine was established for their theft.

With the growth of industry in the 19th century, the number of Hovawarts decreased. The restoration of the breed began only in 1914. The founder is considered to be Kurt Koenig. In 1922, he created a Hovawart nursery, in which four puppies appeared: Helma, Hunolf, Herma, Humel. They were the progenitors of modern representatives of the breed.

Until 1932, the main emphasis in breeding was on improving the exterior, but not the performance qualities. After the establishment of the fascist dictatorship, Hovawarts were declared a “service imperial breed”. But by 1945, the selection of dogs was practically reduced to zero. The surviving specimens are the result of the work of enthusiasts.

In 1959 the breed was recognized in Germany, and in 1972 by the FCI. In 1984, the International Hovawart Federation (IHF) was created.

Photo: pixabay.com

Hovawart: interesting facts

Hovawarts are unique dogs, whose history has accumulated a lot of interesting things:

1. The name of the breed has German roots and reflects the original purpose of the dogs. It consists of two words: hova - “yard”, “farm” and wart - “protector”, “guard”.
2. In 1210, the northern tribes attacked the fortress of Ordensritterburg and, in order to save the life of his only son, the prince tied him to the Hovawart and released them. The dog not only saved the child, but also returned to his owner with help.
3. Due to the breed's qualities, Hovawarts are used as companions, canis-therapists, rescuers and bloodhounds.

Description of the breed

When recreating the Hovawarts, representatives of the following breeds took part in the selection:

• German Shepherds;
• African hounds;
• Kuvasz;
• Newfoundlands.

Thanks to these breeds, the breed received its modern appearance - a powerful, but not heavy dog, which has universal use and is adapted to intense loads.

Colors

Hovawarts have long hair, with short hair located on the head and partly on the front legs.

The Hovawart standard assumes three types of colors:

• completely black. Marks and stains of other colors are not allowed;
• black with tan. The main color is black, the tan color is red. Location of markings: lower part of the muzzle (mask) including the neck, eyebrows, chest and shoulders, toes and area under the tail. The standard allows white hairs on the paws and tail;
• pale yellow. The color is uneven in color - lighter on the belly and lower chest.

Photo: wikimedia.org

Breed standard

• sexual dimorphism is pronounced;
• height: males - from 65 to 70 cm, females - from 58 to 65 cm;
• weight: males - from 30 to 40 kg, females - from 25 to 35 kg;
• the skull has a rounded shape with a wide forehead;
• stop is well defined;
• The nose is well developed. Color: black or to match the coat;
• the jaws are developed, the bite is “scissors”. The standard does not allow pincer bite in Hovawarts;
• lips are dry and thin, fitting tightly to the teeth;
• oval shaped eyes. Color: black to light brown;
• eyelids - close tightly, the edge has a black pigment;
• ears are triangular in shape and hang freely;
• the body is strong. The muscles are well developed, but do not make the dog massive. The body has an increased length in relation to height (by 10-15%);
• limbs of medium length. Well developed, parallel to each other;
• claws - color depends on the main color of the coat;
• the tail is long. Dropped below the hock joints. The hair on the tail is longer;
• The coat is long and wavy. The standard does not allow the formation of curls - this is a disqualifying feature;
• Life expectancy is from 13 to 16 years.

Photo: flickr.com

Historical reference

The first mentions of Hovawarts are found in German chronicles of the 13th century. A case is described in which a dog selflessly defended its owners during a robbery of an estate.

The word “Hovawart” itself is literally translated from German as “guardian of the yard.” This perfectly defines the character of the dog and the area of ​​its use over the centuries.

At the end of the 19th century, there were almost no Hovawarts left. This is largely due to the industrial boom in Germany, when interests other than industry itself were excluded. In the revival of the breed, a large role belongs to zoologists and geneticists father and son Koening (Bertram and Kurt). They founded the Hovawart nursery, receiving their first litter in 1922.

In addition to the Hovawarts, the following people took part in the recreation of the breed:

• Newfoundlands;
• Leonbergers;
• Kuvasz;
• German Shepherds;
• African hounds.

They largely determined the modern appearance and standard of this breed.

Shortly before the Second World War, the ideal representative of the Hovawart was born in the kennel - the male Castor, who fully complies with modern standards. He left 32 litters of equally perfect puppies.

The Second World War slowed down breeding work, which resumed only 5 years after its end. The breed received official recognition from the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) only in 1964. In 1983, the International Hovawart Federation (IHF) was formed.

The Hovawart is a rare breed these days; its breeding is monitored by the International Canine Federation and the International Hovawart Federation.

Similar breeds

The Hovawart can be mistaken for another breed, a mixed breed or a mongrel. Who is he similar to and what is the difference:

Golden retriever

The fawn representative of the breed is most often confused with a retriever, but these are completely different dogs. Distinctive features of the Hovawart: longer limbs, tail - in mood, raised up and curved towards the back, leadership instinct is more developed, strong will;

Photo: wikimedia.org

Bernese Mountain Dog and Leonberger

Hovawart is more athletic, flexible and slender, alert and temperamental;

Photo: wikimedia.org

Newfoundland

The German watchdog does not like being in the water so much, it is much more temperamental and playful, and is distinguished by its smaller size and amount of fur.

Photo: flickr.com

Character and behavioral characteristics

Such dogs have a very deceptive soft appearance, which is why they are not taken seriously as guards or defenders. Hovawarts are characterized by:

• pronounced territorial behavior - German guards are more distrustful of strangers than other breeds and strictly monitor changes in their territory;
• strong character and iron will;
• late maturation (up to 3 years). For this reason, the process of education and training may be somewhat delayed;
• balanced character, absence of unmotivated aggression;
• strong devotion to the owner and his family.

One of the main character traits of the Hovawart is the desire to dominate other animals. This is somewhat inconsistent with their appearance, but they can defend their right to leadership.

Hovawarts need long walks and constant movement - keeping them in an apartment is not suitable for them. The best option would be to live in a private house, but not in an enclosure or on a chain.

They do not get along well with other animals if they are not subordinated. Hovawarts build excellent relationships with children, but during the period of growing up, serious control over the communication between the dog and the child is necessary.

Photo: wikimedia.org

Walk

When walking around other dogs, the Hovawart will always take the lead. This dog is a leader by nature, in this it is similar to fighting dogs .

Both in protecting the owner and in pranks, Hovawart will always be the first. If there is a body of water nearby, this will be your pet’s favorite place to walk. A better swimmer is hard to find.

The best pastime is to play, jump, walk and feel free

Regardless of the weather, a Hovawart will always be happy to go for a walk. He is very hardy: neither heat nor cold is a problem for him. The minimum time for walking is two to three hours a day. During the walk, it is recommended to arrange games and small activities. If you plan to keep your pet on a leash, it is recommended to use a dog harness .

Education and training

You will have to raise the puppy from the very first day of being at home and for several more years until the period of growing up has passed.

If this is your first pet, it is better to use the services of a professional dog handler and take a training course with him.

Self-training is only possible for a patient owner - brute force cannot be used on dogs of this breed - Hovawarts are too sensitive and touchy. As a result of rude actions, the dog may become withdrawn or harbor a grudge and then take revenge.

Particular attention should be paid to the behavior of the Hovawart during walks - dogs have a well-developed hunter instinct, they will constantly try to dominate other animals.

A properly raised Hovawart will become not only an excellent guard, but also a companion - a favorite of the whole family.

Diseases

Hovawarts are long-livers with excellent health. But they also have hereditary diseases:

• hip dysplasia – extremely rare;
• hypothyroidism is a pathological condition associated with a lack of thyroid hormones. Bitches are most often affected. Symptoms: decreased activity, increased temperature, patchy hair loss;
• joint diseases. Most often, such problems occur in young individuals under the age of one year. During this period, active growth occurs, so do not overload the dog, choose the right diet;
• heart diseases.

Hovawarts with heart pathologies or diagnosed hypothyroidism are removed from breeding.

Photo: wikimedia.org

Health

The average life expectancy of Hovawarts ranges from 13-15 years, which is considered an excellent indicator for such a large dog. Thanks to IHF, the breed is not prone to hereditary diseases. Today, the efforts of breeders are aimed at completely eliminating two diseases - hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. Naturally, diseases with viral etiology and parasites are dangerous for Hovawarts, so we should not forget about the relevance of vaccination and prevention.

Pregnancy

From the first mating to birth it takes about 72 days. The owner needs to keep track of the timing: mark the day of the first mating and monitor the due date.

Obvious signs of pregnancy appear in dogs at a very late stage.

Signs of a dog being pregnant:

• a condition similar to a disease;
• obsessive demand for affection;
• frequent urge to urinate;
• swelling and lightening of the nipples;
• prolapse of the abdomen;
• just before childbirth - yellowish or greenish discharge from the loop.

During this period, the Hovawart bitch needs special care and rest, supporting the body with an additional complex of vitamins. If the owner is concerned about her condition, she should contact a veterinarian, making sure to warn that she has recently been mated and pregnancy is possible.

Mating

Like other large breeds, the Hovawart should not be coated until her third heat. This usually occurs between 20 and 24 months of age, although puberty may occur 5 to 6 months earlier.

Animals must be pre-examined by a veterinarian to prevent mating of sick animals. If the veterinarian's conclusion is positive, a date and time for the planned mating will be set. This usually happens in the first half of the day. On this day, the dogs are not fed, but are walked in advance. Mating always takes place in the territory of the male.

Read our article on this topic: “Everything you need to know about mating dogs: the right age, what to do if it doesn’t work out, rules and tips.”

Care

Rules of care:

• wool - combing every two days with a special brush with iron teeth. During the molting period - daily;
• bathe the dog when soiled or once every three months;
• Ears need to be cleaned and examined once a week. In the summer, examinations are carried out more often - the risk of otitis increases due to the proximity of the ears to the head;
• Have your teeth examined weekly to check for tartar formation. Teeth are brushed with a specialized paste and brush once or twice a week;
• eyes are cleaned once every two days or as needed;
• after walks in the warm season, the dog is examined for ticks;
• periodic treatment against parasites and vaccination.

It is better to trim the Hovawart's fur between the toes to prevent ice and snow from accumulating there in winter, and dirt and thorns in summer.

How to choose a pet

Hovawart is a rare breed and costs an average of 25-60 thousand rubles. It is safer to buy a puppy from a certified nursery. To make the right choice you need to pay attention to:

• presence of stamp and documents;
• compliance with the breed standard;
• availability of certificates confirming the health of parents;
• conditions of detention;
• behavioral features.

A healthy Hovawart puppy should have clean floppy ears, clear eyes, shiny silky fur, a moderately well-fed body and thick paws.

Feeding

Note that the breed is not prone to allergic reactions and gastrointestinal problems, which allows the owner to choose any diet.

Dogs do not need a constant variety of food. They need a balanced diet every day.

Dry food is selected from the premium segment and above, intended for medium breeds.

Feed the dog only after a walk, but not immediately - from 30 minutes to 1 hour. This depends on the intensity of the loads during the walk; the higher they are, the more time the Hovawart should rest before eating.

After eating, rest is also required - about an hour.

The basis of a natural diet should be:

• muscular raw meat (beef);
• unpeeled raw tripe and beef liver (rare);
• sea ​​fish (once a week);
• eggs;
• low fat fermented milk products (up to 9%);
• vegetables (raw and stewed);
• cereals (rice, buckwheat, oatmeal) – no more than 20% of the diet;
• low-fat cheese - as a treat or reward;
• fruits. The exception is grapes and raisins. In raw form.

To avoid gastric volvulus, the dog is fed strictly after a walk and the bowl is placed only at the level of the animal’s chest.

Naturally, the dog’s diet should not contain sweets, salty or smoked foods.

Photo: maxpixel.net

Nutrition

The best option for a dog would be natural food. However, this is not just porridge with a little added meat. Even if a dog eats everything, this does not mean that this is the best option for him.

Natural food for havavart must be balanced: 70% of its composition should be animal proteins, a small amount of vegetables and fruits, but in no case grains.

Eggs, kefir, cottage cheese, chicken necks or backs, beef pulp, vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, cabbage) will be useful in a dog's diet.

Fish oil, flaxseed oil, vitamins B, C, E are used as useful additives.

It is not recommended to give seasonings as they can negatively affect your pet's sense of smell.

The following products should not be given:

• sweets;
• baked goods with yeast;
• smoked meats;
• pickled food;
• tubular bones.

Important! During exercise walks, you can grab a small amount of treats for your pet. Small pieces of cheese are perfect for this.

Hovawart is very active from early childhood

But it is quite difficult to provide your pet with complete natural nutrition. Therefore, many owners use dry food .

In this case, you need to carefully study the list of feeds presented and choose those with the best composition concept. The best option is no grains, 70% animal proteins.

If you can’t decide what to feed your dog: ready-made or natural food, we recommend reading the article

Price and where to buy a puppy

There are several nurseries in Russia where you can buy a purebred puppy.

The most famous nurseries in Moscow:

• Indiana Jones;
• Hof Garc;
• ZOBEL'S HOF.

The cost of a Hovawart baby is quite high and starts at $1000.

Choosing a nickname

Choosing a puppy: what to look for

Choosing a puppy is a very responsible matter, because by buying it, we are acquiring not only a friend, but also a family member. Before purchasing a dog, you should visit several exhibitions: this way you can become familiar with the characteristics and standards of the breed.

Ideally, you should purchase a Hovawart puppy from a kennel. This way it will be possible to examine all the puppies, observe them, see their parents and evaluate their psyche.

When choosing a guard, you need to evaluate the reaction of the puppy's parents to a stranger. If they are friendly, this indicates a lack of fear in dogs. There is a high probability that the puppies will be the same, which will allow them to become excellent watchdogs. If an adult growls and hides, this is a bad indicator. The offspring of this animal will not be able to demonstrate protective qualities, but it is better to conduct additional tests.

Important! Healthy puppies can only be born from healthy parents. Before mating, it is necessary to identify possible diseases of the dog and the bitch. Their health status is confirmed by relevant certificates.

When examined, the puppy should be playful, cheerful, curious and mischievous. The eyes should be unclouded and clear. The ears should not smell, they should be clean. To choose the best puppy, you should take a specialist with you for an examination, who can confirm the excellent health of the dog.

These dogs are quite rare throughout the world, so their puppies are expensive. The average price for a not very thoroughbred representative starts at $1,000.

You should only purchase a Hovawart puppy from a trusted nursery.

In our country there are nurseries that breed the breed.

Moscow region:

• “Hovawart-ZobelsHof” https://hovawart-zobelshof.ru/contacts;
• "Hovawart" https://www.hovawart.su/.

Saint Petersburg:

• “Hof Harz” (“HOF GARC”) https://hovawart.ru/;
• https://proekt-chranitel.narod.ru/index/0-9.

In Yekaterinburg - “Hovawarts in the Urals https://hovawart-ural.ru/index.php?option=com_contact&Itemid=28.

It is strictly prohibited to sell dogs in countries that are not members of the International Hovawart Union.

Owner reviews

Oleg I. I first saw Hovawart at my friends’ house. I thought they had adopted a Labrador mix. Of course, they told me that the dog is the absolute opposite, although he looks like a good-natured person.

I bought such a friend from the same nursery. There is simply no better security guard for a home. Sees everything, hears everything. True, they don’t take him seriously. But this is only the first time, then they are afraid to touch the gate, they stand and wait until I come and open it. The family is practically a decorative dog.

Irina V.

We bought a Hovawart female for protection, but not for home. There are a lot of problems with the neighbors - they drink. They recommended this particular breed. I just can't keep a fighting dog. We suffered, of course. Until he's 2 years old, he's just a huge puppy with all the little boy's habits: he runs around, eats everything, behaves like a hooligan.

But surprisingly, he is an adult security guard. Now they don’t bother me, they know I’m a serious dog at home.

Photo

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Photo: maxpixel.net

Photo: flickr.com

Photo: wikimedia.org