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Kuvasz breed guide
The American Kennel Club calls the snow-white Kuvasz Hungary's majestic guardian of flocks and companion of kings, a working dog of impressive size and strength, smart and profoundly loyal but challenging.
The plural is Kuvasz dogs.
Temperament
The Kuvasz has keen intelligence and determination and is extremely devoted to its family. Those qualities make it an excellent companion but also challenge the novice dog owner.
Despite size and strength, Kuvasz dogs are quick-moving, nimble-footed protectors when meeting a threat.
Lifespan
Kuvasz dogs live 10 to 12 years. They are a healthy breed overall. Breeders screen for elbow and hip dysplasia, autoimmune thyroiditis, patellar luxation, cardiac conditions and progressive retinal atrophy.
Large, deep-chested breeds may develop bloat, a sudden life-threatening distention of the stomach that can come with twisting.
Care
The double coat of guard hair and fine undercoat is very easy to care for, needing only weekly brushing to remove debris and reduce shedding, plus an occasional bath. Nails should be trimmed every month or so if not worn down.
Developed as a strong, active working dog, the Kuvasz needs daily activity for its health and happiness and a fenced yard is essential for such a large, agile dog.
History
Kuvasz dogs came to Hungary in the Middle Ages, though their lineage is thought to go back to ancient Turkey and Tibet. As livestock guardians they had the patience to watch a flock for days on end and the courage to take on wolves or armed rustlers.
Hungarian nobles took notice. It is said that King Matthias I, whose court was beset by intrigue and treachery, trusted his Kuvasz dogs more than his palace guards.
AKC trait ratings
| Trait | AKC rating | Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Level | 3 of 5 | Couch Potato to High Energy |
| Trainability Level | 5 of 5 | Self-Willed to Eager to Please |
| Shedding Level | 3 of 5 | No Shedding to Hair Everywhere |
| Barking Level | 3 of 5 | Only To Alert to Very Vocal |
| Adaptability Level | 4 of 5 | Lives For Routine to Highly Adaptable |
| Good With Young Children | 3 of 5 | Not Recommended to Good With Children |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 of 5 | Not Recommended to Good With Other Dogs |
| Watchdog/Protective Nature | 5 of 5 | What's Mine Is Yours to Vigilant |