The Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is well known by his generous character and his robust look.
They have written a lot about the background of the Kuvasz as a breed, but there is not much proof. About the 12th century the Kumanes must have brought the Kuvasz to Hungary. In the days of king Matthias the Kuvasz was used as a watchdog at the palace and because the Kuvasz had a white fur they could see him very well in the dark the shepherd’s could use him as a sheepdog.
Until the 20th century he was also used for hunting deer and swine and for finding game. The original name of the Kuvasz might be Ku-assa and comes from the Mesopotanian language and probably means dog-with-the-horses. When there were less and less shepherd’s the Kuvasz became more of a watchdog in the villages. You may say that this white sheepdog is self-willed, the dog has a mind off his own. You have to show him who’s the boss and once you have created a good bond with the dog you really have a loyal friend through thick and thin. The Kuvasz is also a dog who's great with kids.
The Kuvasz is not an ordinary dog. For whom is interested, a short description follows:
General appearance:
All elements of the body are good in proportions. The length is a little bit taller than higher. The bonestructure is strong, but not coarse. The connections are set. The regularly limbs, the deep chest en the slightly sloping croup makes the Kuvasz to a tireless dog.The weight of a dog is 48-61 kg, the weight of the bitch is 37-50 kg. The dog is 71-76 cm tall and the bitch 66-70 cm.
Exterior:
The white coat should be swirled, but slightly curled and lanky are also seen. The coat doesn't demand a lot of maintenance (only washing by exception). Only when the dog is moulting, extra grooming is recommended to keep abundance of hair out of the house. Dogs, who are staying often outside, do have a shorter period of moulting. The Kuvasz is, in contradiction to the white coat, well pigmentated. The eyes are dark-brown, lips and nose are black. The skin ought to be pigmentated.
Nature:
The Kuvasz is courageous, not nervous and attached to his family. The dog protects his environment from outsiders, without being unnecessarily aggressive. The dog doesn't need a command for protection, it's his nature to protect! So, the Kuvasz is an independent dog! The Kuvasz is a dominant dog, he'll learn commands, but doesn't always follow up. If you'll treat him badly, he may become aggressive. The Kuvasz is devoted and tolerant. The education must be based upon mental preponderance and not physically. Physical education works out to the other way! The dog needs a righteous, well-balanced and consequent owner. He appreciates any love and solicitude given to him.
Kuvasz and children:
The Kuvasz is extremely tolerant. A child could never be leader or accepted as leader by the dog. The Kuvasz is a protector, and therefore it is possible that he protects the children from outsiders, even against other children.
The Kuvasz an other animals:
The Kuvasz is a social dog and welcomes other dogs, but let them know who's boss! Because of his self-confidence, the Kuvasz won't start a fight, but if the other dog doesn't accept the leadership, the Kuvasz will prove his strength. To less dominant dogs, the Kuvasz is tolerant.
Please realize that the purchase of a Kuvasz can't be an impulse, but must be well-advised!
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