{"id":24671,"date":"2014-10-23T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2014-10-22T21:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/?p=24671"},"modified":"2025-07-18T13:37:11","modified_gmt":"2025-07-18T10:37:11","slug":"hovawart","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/us\/breed-hovawart","title":{"rendered":"Hovawart"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Hovawart isn’t just any dog; it’s a truly versatile companion<\/strong>, capable of being a loyal friend, a reliable protector, and an active partner for various sports. Its character, much like clay, is shaped by its upbringing and the love it receives from its owner. Hovawarts make excellent guard dogs, instinctively defending their family and territory, yet they remain gentle and devoted family members. The only significant hurdle to keeping this breed might be its high need for activity. If you’re not up for long walks, games, and training sessions, preferring a quiet life on the couch, you might want to consider another breed. You can learn more about all aspects of life with this incredible dog right here on Tvaryny<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hovawart: Breed Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Breed Name<\/strong><\/td>Hovawart<\/td><\/tr>
Country of Origin<\/strong><\/td>Germany<\/td><\/tr>
Breed Foundation Period<\/strong><\/td>Middle Ages (Revived in the 20th Century)<\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/strong><\/td>Males: 66-99 lbs, Females: 55-88 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Height (at Withers)<\/strong><\/td>Males: 24.8-27.6 inches, Females: 22.8-25.6 inches<\/td><\/tr>
Lifespan<\/strong><\/td>10-14 years<\/td><\/tr>
FCI Group<\/strong><\/td>Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid Breeds, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs), Section 2.2 (Molossoid Breeds \/ Mountain Type)<\/td><\/tr>
Temperament<\/strong><\/td>Balanced, self-assured, loyal, vigilant, with a pronounced protective instinct<\/td><\/tr>
Usage<\/strong><\/td>Companion dog, guard dog, rescue dog, service dog<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

History of the Hovawart Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The history of the Hovawart breed traces its roots back to the deep Middle Ages. The name “Hovawart” originates from Middle High German, where “hova”<\/em> means “yard” (modern German “Hof”), and “wart”<\/em> means “guard” or “keeper” (modern “W\u00e4chter”). Thus, the Hovawart is a “yard keeper”<\/strong>. The first written mentions of dogs with such a name and functions appear in German legal texts, such as the “Sachsenspiegel” (around 1274). These documents stipulated responsibility and penalties for stealing or killing such a dog, indicating their high value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, over time, with the emergence of other breeds, the original Hovawarts practically disappeared. In the early 20th century, a group of enthusiasts led by the prominent zoologist Kurt K\u00f6nig<\/strong> decided to revive this legendary breed. They didn’t just recreate it from scratch; they sought out dogs in rural Germany that resembled the historical “yard keepers” in type and character. These dogs, known as “typ-hunde”, became the foundation for selective breeding. Blood from German Shepherds, Newfoundlands, Kuvasz, and possibly breeds like the Leonberger<\/a>, was introduced to achieve the desired traits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first official Hovawart kennel, “Hovawarthof”, was registered in 1922. The work was long and painstaking. Breeders paid immense attention not only to appearance but also to working qualities: balance, intelligence, and a natural protective instinct. After World War II, which caused significant damage to the population, the breed’s restoration continued with renewed vigor. In 1964, the Hovawart breed was officially recognized by the F\u00e9d\u00e9ration Cynologique Internationale (FCI), confirming the successful revival of one of Germany’s oldest working dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hovawart Standard and Appearance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Hovawart is a powerful, muscular dog of medium size, with a slightly elongated body and a noble stance. Pronounced sexual dimorphism is a characteristic feature of the breed: males are noticeably larger and more massive than females. Its appearance combines strength and elegance, and its movements are light and sweeping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Head and Muzzle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Hovawart’s head is powerful, with a broad, convex forehead. The stop (transition from forehead to muzzle) is well-defined. The muzzle is strong, tapering slightly towards the nose but not pointed. The length of the muzzle is approximately equal to the length of the skull. The bridge of the nose is straight. The lips are tight-fitting. The eyes are oval, medium-sized, dark brown, with an alert and intelligent expression. The ears are triangular, hanging, set high, and visually broaden the head.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Body and Limbs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The neck is strong, of medium length, without a dewlap. The back is straight and strong. The chest is broad, deep, and powerful, providing ample space for the heart and lungs. The limbs are strong, straight, with well-developed musculature. The paws are compact, rounded, with tightly closed toes. The tail is long, reaching the hock, covered with dense hair. In a calm state, it hangs down; when excited, it rises above the backline, forming a graceful curve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coat and Color of the Hovawart<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Hovawart’s coat is long, slightly wavy, lying close to the body, with a slight undercoat. On the chest, belly, back of the legs, and tail, the hair is longer, forming “feathering” and “breeches”. This coat structure provides excellent protection for the dog from inclement weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The breed standard recognizes three color variations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n