Hovawart Dog: A Comprehensive Guide
Have you heard of the Hovawart dog breed? This German breed is not as well-known as some of the more popular breeds out there, but it’s definitely worth learning about if you’re interested in adding a furry friend to your family. In this article, we’ll be covering everything you need to know about the Hovawart dog, from their history to their average lifespan.
Hovawart Dog History
The Hovawart dog breed originated in the Harz mountains of Germany in the Middle Ages. They were bred as working dogs, tasked with protecting livestock and homes from predators and intruders. Despite their long history, the breed almost went extinct during World War II, but a dedicated group of breeders managed to keep it alive and breed it back to its original form.
Hovawart Dog Breed Characteristics
The Hovawart dog is large and muscular, with a thick coat that ranges from blond to black. They are incredibly loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent guard dogs. Hovawarts are also known for being very intelligent and trainable, which makes them perfect for working roles such as search and rescue or police work.
Hovawart Dog Intelligence
As mentioned, the Hovawart dog breed is highly intelligent. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Hovawarts are also intuitive and can quickly pick up on their owners’ moods and emotions.
Hovawart Dog Average Size
Hovawarts are large dogs, with males typically weighing between 80-100 pounds and females weighing in at 60- 80 pounds. They stand at about 24-28 inches at the shoulder, making them a substantial and commanding presence.
Hovawart Dog Child Friendly
Because of their loyal and gentle nature, Hovawarts can be great playmates for children. They are very patient and kind with their family, but they might be a bit reserved with strangers, so it’s important to teach children to approach them appropriately.
Hovawart Dog Health Needs
Like any breed, Hovawarts can be prone to certain health problems. They may be predisposed to hip dysplasia, eye diseases, and ear infections. It’s important to keep up with routine vet visits to catch any potential health issues early.
Hovawart Dog Grooming Needs
Hovawarts have thick, double-layered fur, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Brushing their coat once or twice a week should suffice, but they may need to be groomed more often during shedding season.
Hovawart Dog Amount Of Shedding
Speaking of shedding season, Hovawarts do shed quite a bit. During shedding season, which typically occurs twice a year, they’ll need extra brushing and grooming to keep their fur from getting out of control. However, outside of shedding season, their coat doesn’t require too much maintenance.
Hovawart Dog Trainability
As previously mentioned, Hovawarts are very trainable. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and games. They can also excel in advanced obedience and agility training if their owners are willing to put in the time and effort.
Hovawart Dog Exercise Needs
Because they were bred for working, Hovawarts have high energy levels and need plenty of exercise. Daily walks and runs are a must, along with plenty of playtime. Mental exercise such as puzzle toys and training sessions can also help keep their minds sharp.
Hovawart Dog Average Lifespan
On average, Hovawarts live to be about 10-14 years old. With proper care, some have even been known to live into their late teens.
Conclusion
The Hovawart dog breed is a unique and special breed, with a long and storied history. They make excellent family pets and working dogs, with their loyal, intelligent, and protective nature. Although they require some maintenance and plenty of exercise, the rewards of having a Hovawart in your life are well worth it.