| Appearance:
Kuvasz are large white dogs with wavy fur, black noses, and almond shaped eyes. They are larger than the average Labrador Retriever. Females usually weigh between 75-90 pounds (35-40 kg) while males weigh between 100-115 pounds (45-52 kg).
Their facial features are very similar to those of a Golden Retriever, however their build is larger. Some Kuvaszok (particularly in the United States) have been bred to have
straighter, less-curly hair. Enthusiasts feel this is a gross deviation from the breed's true type and its Hungarian origins.
Temperament: 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.
Ultimately, the question of
barking seems to depend on the individual dog but it remains a
good rule of thumb for a potential owner to refrain from
buying a Kuvasz if barking will be a problem at the home.
Kuvaszok are known to be fierce
protectors of their families, which is in keeping with their
origins as a guardian of livestock. Given their intelligence,
awareness of their surroundings, as well as their size and
strength, they can be quite impressive in this role.
They are also said to be
incredibly intelligent, with a "near human" sense of
humor. Given their protective nature and their natural
strength, training and socialization is a necessity. Despite
their intelligence, they should not be perceived as easily
trained. Their independent streak can make training a
difficult task which can wear on the patience of even
experienced owners. As a result, they are not recommended for
novices.
Grooming: The Kuvasz's stiff, dense coat, growing up to 15 cm (6 in) in length, does not require any special grooming. It needs a brush once a week or better still, every two or three days. A curry comb and, if necessary, a large-toothed comb can be used to remove knots.
During the spring and autumn the Kuvasz moults, and he will lose copious amounts of hair very quickly. Frequent brushing is therefore needed to keep his coat tidy. A Kuvasz should not smell or have an odor; such is usually a sign of illness or a poor diet.
History: About 2000B.C.,
the Magyar tribes moved along the recently established trade
routes, conquering the Carpathian Basin in Hungary, bringing
with them the Ku Assa, meaning "dog of the horse".
The Ku Assa were used for
protection and hunting by the nobility of Hungary during the
15th century. When the Ottoman-Turkish take over occurred,
their name was changed to Kawaz. The dogs were returned to
their original task of guarding livestock.
In World War II, the dog was
almost driven to extinction in Hungary as they were killed for
guarding their families from soldiers. It has been suggested
that they were hunted at the time, yet some officers were
known to take Kuvasz home with them. After the War, it was
revealed that there was less than thirty of the dogs left in
Hungary. Since then, due to many dedicated breeders, Kuvasz
have repopulated Hungary.
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