The Hovawart is one of the most fascinating dog breeds. Their remarkable history, versatile character, health and beauty make them one of the most recognizable and cherished four-legged dogs in the world. In this article we will explore everything you need to know about this unique breed.
What do you find in the article?
Hovawart – description and appearance of the breed
Hovawart is a large dog breed originating in Germany, which brings together power and elegance. The average weight of an adult dog is between 25 and 40 kg, and the height at the withers is between 58 and 70 cm. The correct ratio between height and body length is 9:10.
Dogs of this breed are characterized by long, straight hair, which can take on three basic colors: black, black-gold and blond. Hovawarts have a strong, muscular body structure, strong limbs and a deep chest. The head is broad, with a pronounced frontal break, the eyes are almond-shaped and always dark brown, and the ears are pendulous.

Character of the Hovawart dog breed
Skills – what should you know?
Hovawarts are extremely versatile dogs. They are intelligent, courageous and distinguished by a strong defensive instinct. Due to their endurance and physical abilities, they are readily used as rescue dogs, guard dogs or for guide work for the blind. They are also perfect for various forms of canine sports, such as agility, obedience and frisbee.
What kind of personality does it have?
The Hovawart is a breed that is very devoted to its owner and family. They are alert, calm and balanced. Although they may be a bit distrustful of strangers at first, they are usually very friendly and open.
Hovawart – how to train and raise?
Hovawarts are intelligent and eager to learn, but they require a consistent and patient handler. The key to success is positive reinforcement and regular training sessions to help keep their mind and body active. Harsh parenting methods are not recommended for this breed, as they can lead to behavioral problems.
Who is the Hovawart suitable for?
The Hovawart is an ideal dog for an active person or family who is able to provide him with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. The breed is ideal for people with experience in dog ownership, as Hovawarts can be somewhat stubborn and require a consistent, patient approach to training.
Hovawart – price
The price of a Hovawart can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the reputation of the breeder, the health criteria of the parents and the quality of the puppy. In USA, prices for puppies of this breed can range from $1,500 to $2,700.

Advantages and disadvantages
Disadvantages
Hovawarts are large dogs that require a lot of space to run and play. They can also be a bit stubborn during training and require a lot of mental stimulation to keep them from getting bored and developing undesirable behaviors.
Advantages
Hovawarts are extremely loyal and devoted dogs that make great watchdogs. They are intelligent, versatile and healthy. Their ability to adapt to different tasks and situations makes them one of the most versatile dogs in the world.
Hovawart – Health, diseases and grooming
Nutrition
The Hovawart, like any large dog, requires a well-balanced diet, rich in protein and fat to maintain muscle mass and healthy joints. It is important to monitor the quantity and quality of the food your dog eats to prevent weight problems.
Grooming
Grooming a Hovawart is not complicated. Their long coat requires regular brushing to avoid shedding. Hovawarts are dogs with moderate shedding. Bathing is only necessary when they are dirty.
Diseases
Hovawarts are generally a healthy breed, but, like any breed, they are prone to some specific health problems. The most common diseases include hip dysplasia, thyroid problems and eye diseases. That’s why it’s very important to get regular checkups at the vet and to buy a puppy from a responsible kennel that performs proper health tests on the parents.
Accessories and equipment or how to prepare for this breed?
When preparing to welcome a Hovawart into your home, it’s a good idea to get a large, comfortable bed, plenty of interactive toys for mental stimulation and high-quality food. It is also important to have a large outdoor space where the dog can play and exercise.

History of the Hovawart dog breed
Origins
The history of the Hovawart dates back as far as the 11th century, making it one of the oldest dog breeds in Germany. The first references to Hovawarts appear in documents from the Middle Ages, which refer to guard dogs on castles and farms. They were highly regarded dogs for their defensive and guarding abilities. In medieval Germany, the name “Hovawart” was used as a general term for guard dogs, regardless of their breed.
Development of the breed
Although Hovawarts were once very popular, over time their population began to decline. By the beginning of the 20th century, the breed was close to extinction. The situation changed thanks to the efforts of German breeder and cynologist Kurt König, who undertook the task of restoring the breed. König, who was a veterinarian by profession, began finding dogs that resembled Hovawarts and then breeding them to get dogs that resembled the original breed as closely as possible.
König created a breed standard and in 1922 founded Germany’s first Hovawart breeders’ association. The breed was officially recognized by the German Canine Association (VDH) in 1937.
Today
Today, Hovawarts are revered around the world for their intelligence, versatility and loyalty. The breed has gained popularity not only as family dogs, but also as service dogs – guard dogs, rescue dogs or guides for the blind. Although Hovawarts are not as common as some other breeds, their remarkable history and unique character traits attract many dog lovers.
Hovawart dog breed pattern
The Hovawart breed standard, approved by the International Kennel Federation (FCI), precisely describes the physical characteristics that the ideal representative of this breed should have.
The Hovawart is a dog with a strong yet elegant build, somewhat resembling the shape of a Labrador. According to the standard, the Hovawart should be well-muscled, while presenting harmonious body proportions. What is important here is the balance between the different parts of the body.
Particular attention is paid to strong, correctly positioned limbs and a well-developed chest, indicative of the dog’s strong build. The dorsal line of the back should be a straight line descending gently from the neck to the tail.
The Hovawart’s head is strong but not heavy, with a pronounced stop – that is, the place where the forehead meets the muzzle. The muzzle is strong and deep, with well-developed nostrils. The eyes are almond-shaped and are always dark brown, adding to the dog’s friendly appearance. The ears are of medium size, with a high and wide-set base.
The Hovawart’s coat is long and slightly wavy, emphasizing the breed’s elegance. The three basic colors are black, black-gold and blond. Each is equally desirable by breed standard, but regardless of color, the coat should always be smooth, dense and well-fitted.
A properly shaped Hovawart should also present appropriate behavior and temperament, as described in the standard. It should show confidence, calmness and balance, as well as natural guarding and defensive tendencies.

Hovawart – interesting facts about the breed
The name “Hovawart” comes from the Old Germanic language and literally translates as “guardian of the court.” This is a reference to the original role of these dogs, which were used as guards of estates and castles.
Despite their German origins, Hovawarts are popular all over the world, including USA. They are known for being one of the best guard dogs, as well as excellent family dogs.
It is interesting to note that one of the most important steps in the restoration of the breed was the so-called “character test.” Kurt König, the breed’s founder, required breeders to ensure that the breed’s dogs exhibited natural guarding instincts. Those that did not pass the test were excluded from the breeding program.
Although Hovawarts are excellent guard dogs, they are not aggressive. They are known for their ability to assess a situation and react accordingly – they do not attack unless they decide it is necessary.
Hovawarts have a very good memory. If a dog of this breed remembers a person it has met only once, it is able to recognize them many years later.
Although Hovawarts are large dogs, they are surprisingly gentle and quiet at home. They are also known to be good dogs for children, due to their patience and tolerance.
Emily Carter is an experienced pet enthusiast and writer, with over a decade of experience caring for and working with animals. From her early days volunteering at animal shelters to becoming a pet care advisor, Emily has dedicated her life to understanding the unique needs of pets and helping pet owners provide the best possible care for their furry companions. She is especially passionate about topics like pet nutrition, behavior, training, and animal welfare.