Hovawart

Origins and History

The Hovawart (German for "estate guard") originated in the 19th‑century German countryside, where it was employed to protect farms, livestock, and property. After a near‑extinction in the early 1900s, dedicated breeders revived the breed using remaining specimens and related working dogs, establishing the modern standard in the 1930s. The Hovawart was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1972 (Group 2, Section 4 – Working Dogs). Today it serves as a family companion, search‑and‑rescue dog, and competitive show dog.

General Characteristics

• Strong, well‑balanced build with a deep chest and straight, sturdy limbs.
• Intelligent, loyal, and protective; eager to work and please its handler.
• Originally bred for guarding and herding, now excels in obedience, tracking, and protection work.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 63‑70 cm (24.8‑27.6 in); Females 58‑65 cm (22.8‑25.6 in).
• Weight: Males 30‑40 kg (66‑88 lb); Females 25‑35 kg (55‑77 lb).

Coat and Color

• Medium‑length, dense, slightly wavy to curly coat that is weather‑resistant; undercoat is soft and thick.
• Accepted colors: solid black, black‑and‑tan (black with distinct tan markings on the cheeks, chest, legs, and eyebrows), or solid blonde (golden) ranging from light cream to deep honey. White is not permitted.

Temperament Considerations

The Hovawart is confident and protective, which can translate to strong guarding instincts. Early, consistent socialization is essential to ensure the dog distinguishes between normal situations and genuine threats.

Training Essentials

• Begin socialization with a variety of people, animals, and environments from 8 weeks onward.
• Provide at least 1.5–2 hours of vigorous exercise daily, including off‑lead work, tracking, or agility to satisfy its working drive.
• Use positive‑reinforcement methods; the breed responds best to reward‑based training and may become stubborn if faced with harsh corrections.
• Focus on impulse control and recall, as the Hovawart’s protective nature can lead to over‑attachment to a single family member.

Daily Grooming

• Brush 2–3 times per week with a slicker brush or undercoat rake to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bath as needed; a full bath 24–48 hours before a show helps the coat lie flat.
• Trim nails every 3–4 weeks; keep ears clean weekly to prevent moisture buildup.
• Brush teeth several times a week or use dental chews to maintain oral health.

Show Preparation

• Begin a grooming regimen 7–10 days before the ring: bathe, condition, and lightly blow‑dry the coat.
• Clip the coat to the standard length (approximately 1–2 cm on the body, slightly longer on the tail and hindquarters) using thinning shears for a neat finish.
• Trim the foot pads and toe nails to a smooth edge; apply a light coat of dog‑safe polish if desired for a glossy appearance.
• Perform a final ear cleaning, dental polish, and a quick brush‑out immediately before entering the show ring.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – recommended screening with OFA or PennHIP by 12 months.
• Elbow dysplasia – radiographic evaluation recommended by 18 months.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hereditary cataracts – annual CERF eye examinations and DNA testing where available.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood work if clinical signs (weight gain, lethargy, skin changes) appear.
• Cardiac concerns such as dilated cardiomyopathy – yearly cardiac auscultation and echocardiogram for breeding stock.

General Care

• Provide at least 1.5 hours of vigorous, varied exercise daily to maintain musculoskeletal health.
• Feed a high‑quality, age‑appropriate diet balanced for a large, active breed; monitor body condition to avoid obesity, which can exacerbate joint disease.
• Average lifespan is 10–12 years; regular veterinary wellness exams (including joint and eye screenings) help detect issues early.

Disclaimer: The information provided reflects current breed standards and widely recognized health concerns. Individual dogs may vary, and prospective owners should consult qualified breeders and veterinarians for breed‑specific guidance.