Let's talk Kuvaszes
The thick white coat and pleasant outlook of the Kuvasz dog has been a winning combination in their native land of Hungary. Sturdy and noble, the latter trait made them the perfect dog to serve the country’s nobility, usually in a flock-guarding capacity. Now, home and property owners alike value this great all-around dog not only for their robust build and sharp intellect but for their affectionate side and family-friendly approach. And that plush pearly coat makes them some of the best arm candy around.
Official name: Kuvasz
Other names: Hungarian Kuvasz
Origins: Hungary
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Can stay alone?* | |
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Family pet?* | |
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* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socializing your pet as well as covering their basic welfare needs (and their social and behavioral needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
Contact your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
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71 - 76 cm
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48 - 62 kg
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66 - 69 cm
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37 - 50 kg
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| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 15 months |
| Adult age: | 15 months to 5 years |
| Mature age: | 5 to 8 years |
| Senior age: | From 8 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Kuvaszes
1. Labs live for 2 things: playing and food
And not necessarily in that order. But that’s what training is for. There are plenty of great Labrador puppy training videos on the internet - and great trainers locally. The playing helps keep your Labrador in great shape and prevents him from getting bored. You’ve got this!
2. Passes the smell test
One undeniably great trait of the Kuvasz is the fact that their coat is odourless and it repels dirt and grime. Lucky humans we! A traditionally working breed used to being out in the field, they are predisposed to being less smelly than many of their fellow canines. A quick trick to clean them up if need be: Sprinkling cornstarch on their coats then brushing it out.
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History of the breed
With a history that dates back thousands of years, the amiable Kuvasz can take their place among the more storied breeds in the canine kingdom.
The pride of Hungary, the Kuvasz is said to have emanated, according to one theory, 8,000 years ago from Sumeria, present-day Iraq. Another theory says the breed hails from ancient Turkey and Tibet, introduced to Hungary by the Magyar, Asian nomads who migrated west in the 10th century. Their name comes from the Turkish word “kawasz” or “armed guard of the nobility.”
During the Middle Ages, the Kuvasz were used as guard and flock dogs for Hungarian nobility. In the 15th century in a very tumultuous time, King Matthius bred hundreds of Kuvaszok, trusting them more than his family and guardsmen. The breed maintained their place in noble and fashionable circles into the early 20th century, with the Kuvasz Club of America being founded in 1966.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Kuvaszes
1. Ears
Ears set slightly high, v-shaped, fairly rounded ends.
2. Head
Long, slightly rounded head, medium in width.
3. Body
Big, sturdy body, although not imposing.
4. Coat
Medium coarse thick double coat, can be wavy or straight.
5. Tail
Bushy tail, carried well-arched, tip slightly curved up.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Kuvasz
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Caring for your Kuvasz
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Stroking the super plush white fur is one of the pleasures of owning a Kuvasz but grooming is a must, to keep it mat- and tangle-free. Use a comb to groom the hair—which can grow as long as four to six inches (10 to 15cm) sometimes. The Kuvasz breed is known for an absence of smell, a boon for owners, especially those who use the dog for working purposes. Bathe them only if very necessary. One easy fix if they do need a quick cleaning: Sprinkle the dog generously with cornstarch or another absorbent powder made for dogs followed by a good combing through. Since they love going outside, do check their coat regularly for any detritus, like twigs, patches of grass, or thorns that could get stuck.
The Kuvasz is a highly energetic dog so a good deal of exercise will need to be a part of their very daily routine. This is a breed that needs to run so going jogging with you is just fine with them, or at least nice long walks.
Training the Kuvasz will require patience. They are not the simplest breed to wrangle, as a result of their high intelligence. That and the breed’s over-the-top loyalty makes them want to comply but it may take some doing. Socialising them well from puppyhood should help the Kuvasz grow into the best dog they can be.
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All about Kuvasz
The Kuvasz dog got used to living outside for long periods of time, having been bred over the years to protect flocks of sheep and livestock. Their hardy disposition and thick white double coat help them withstand being in the great outdoors and windy, cold climates as well, such as those where they spent their formative years.
Who doesn’t love a fluffy, white dog? The Kuvasz and the Great Pyrénées are similar in appearance and both top-notch breeds, but the Great Pyrénées is endowed with a slightly larger build and even fluffier coat. The Kuvasz dog is snow white with no markings and wavy fur, whereas the “Pyr” can have reddish-brown, tan, or gray markings.
Read More about Breeds
How to adopt a dog
Things to consider before getting a dog
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/