Last update: 19-08-2022

Hungarian Kuvasz Dog - Temperament, Size, Lifespan, Puppies

The appearance of the Kuvasz dog might be confused with other breeds such as the Great Pyrenees or the Polish Tatra sheepdog. The dog is quite muscular and large. But it doesn't affect its mobility - on the contrary. It's a very agile animal that loves moving around. Is the Kuvasz a good dog for everyone? What is the temperament of these dogs? Find out.

The Hungarian Kuvasz dog - the breed’s origins and history

The origins of the Kuvasz dog is a disputable matter. Some claim the animal is related to the Molossus - a breed from the ancient times of the Roman Empire. Others suggest the breed was brought to the areas of modern Hungary along with Asian nomads, more precisely - with a tribe called Cumans.

Originally, Kuvasz dogs were kept as guard dogs to protect other animals - sheep, cattle, and goats - from predators, especially wolves. That’s why white fur was preferred, to distinguish the dogs from wolves. Some time later, the Kuvasz dogs became hunting animals as well, used e.g. in boar hunts.

Many Hungarian citizens had emigrated to the United States during the inter-war period - and they had taken their beloved Kuvasz dogs with them. The breed became quite popular in the USA, and many people began breeding the dogs intensely there. Possibly, it prevented the Kuvasz from going extinct.

What does the Kuvasz look like?

The Kuvasz dog belongs to the group of large animals. Male dogs reach up to 76 cm (2.5 ft) at withers and weigh even 62 kg (136.7 lb). Females are only slightly smaller - they grow up to 70 cm (2.3 ft) and weigh about 50 kg (110.2 lb). Their fur is characteristic - relatively long, wavy and stiff. The breed standard allows only white color, but some Kuvasz dogs have delicate, cream undertones.

The Hungarian Kuvasz - character

The Hungarian Kuvasz is the perfect guardian dog. It’s incredibly alert and very brave. It treats its family as the priority, and makes sure to keep it safe. But it doesn’t mean the dog asks for pets and cuddles. On the contrary, dogs of this breed set their boundaries in such matters. If they want to show affection at the moment, they simply do it. But otherwise, they remain indifferent.

Kuvasz dogs are characteristic for their calm personality. As puppies, they love playing with their caregivers. Upon becoming adolescents and adults, they give up most of the fun. They much prefer purposeful activities. The Kuvasz is usually a safe dog, but it can be dangerous if provoked.

Is the Hungarian Kuvasz a dog for everyone?

The Kuvasz is a wonderful dog breed, but it’s not ideal for everyone. First, it requires a capable and experienced caregiver who is able to control the four-legged friend’s character. The breed values its independence. For this reason, only people who already have experience with similar dogs are able to take care of it.

Do Kuvasz dogs require additional training?

Because of the dog’s character, its obedience is sometimes a questionable matter. Dogs of this breed are very intelligent, although they have a tendency to dominate.

Begin the education as early as the fourth week of the dog’s life. Ongoing socialization is the main practiced activity. An adult Kuvasz requires continued training. Note that the dog might refuse following the commands sometimes. In such a case, the caregiver’s persistence is crucial.

The Kuvasz dog - diet basics

The Kuvasz, just like other large dogs such as the St. Bernard or the Turkish Kangal, needs high-quality, calorie rich food. It’s important, especially if the dog is active every day. It needs mostly dry food, properly adjusted to its age and weight. Additionally, remember about supplementing the animal’s diet. The proper number of meals and supplements can be determined with the help of a veterinarian.

Do Kuvasz dogs need special grooming?

Despite its thick fur, the dog is quite easy to groom. Make sure to brush the hair regularly, at least once per week. Bathing is not recommended. The only good time for it is when the animal gets particularly dirty. Usually, it happens in spring or autumn, when the dogs often step in muddy puddles.

The Kuvasz need brushing every day during the shedding season.

What’s more, we recommend performing a standard eyes, ears teeth and paw check-up once per week.

The Kuvasz dog - typical diseases of the breed

Just like other large dog breeds, the Kuvasz is vulnerable to joints issues. The most common problems include:

• hip dysplasia,
• joint degeneration.

The Kuvasz dog might be born deaf. Such dogs are typically diagnosed from the beginning by the breeder. For this reason, make sure to pick only trusted places if you want to purchase a Kuvasz puppy. What’s more, the animal is prone to issues with a twisted stomach.

How long does the Kuvasz dog live?

The Kuvasz dog is considered an animal of a medium lifespan. Typically, it lives 12 years. Of course, it’s not a rule. Everything depends on the conditions it lives in, as well as the diseases it was diagnosed with.

The Kuvasz dog - price

If you want to purchase a Kuvasz puppy, be prepared to spend a lot of money. Kuvasz puppies cost from $1,200 to $2,000, depending on the breeder they come from. Also, consider the monthly cost of keeping such a pet, which falls between $75 and $200. Make sure you know about it before you take a dog home.

📍 The Hungarian Kuvasz - what kind of dog is it?

The Kuvasz is a large and well-built dog. It has a strong personality, characterized by independence and bravery. The breed was created mostly for the purposes of guarding houses and families. It's not a good companion for children.

📍 What does the Kuvasz dog look like?

The Kuvasz has long and wavy fur. The breed's standard is white, but some dogs are light cream. The dog grows up to 76 cm (2.5 ft) and weighs circa 62 kg (136.7 lb). It looks quite muscular and is strong - it's because of its function as a guard dog.

📍 How much does the Kuvasz dog weigh?

An adult Kuvasz dog can weigh from 48 to 62 kg (105.8-136.7 lb). Females are lighter and weigh from 37 to 50 kg (81.6-110.2 lb). A lot depends on the feeding, as well as the everyday activities of the dog.

📍 What is the average lifespan of a Kuvasz dog?

The Hungarian Kuvasz is a dog of a medium lifespan. Usually, it lives from 10 to 12 years. Obviously, it's not a rule and some dogs break the norm.