GROUP 5 - WORKING DOGS

History

The Kuvasz is an ancient breed of a livestock dog of Hungarian origin. Mention of the breed can be found in old Hungarian texts. It has historically been used as a royal guard dog, or to guard livestock, but has been increasingly found in homes as a pet over the last seventy years. (1)

Around 2000 BC, the Magyar tribes moved along the recently established trade routes of the steppes, gradually leading them to the Carpathian Basin in Hungary which they conquered in 896 A.D. With them came Kuvasz-type dogs, which primarily served as livestock guardians. In 1978, the fossilized skeleton of a 9th Century Kuvasz-type dog was discovered in Fenékpuszta near Keszthely, a discovery which was remarkable in that the morphology of the skeleton was almost identical to a modern Kuvasz. If accurate, such a discovery would mark the Kuvasz as among the oldest identifiable dog breeds as only a few breeds can be dated beyond the 9th Century. (1)

After the Magyar settlement of the Carpathian Basin, the tribes converted to a more agrarian lifestyle and began to devote more resources towards animal husbandry. Whereas the Komondor was used in the lower elevations with drier climates, the Kuvasz was used in the wet pastures of the higher mountains and both were an integral part of the economy. Later, during the 15th Century, the Kuvasz became a highly prized animal and could be found in the royal court of King Matthias Corvinus. Kuvasz puppies were given to visiting dignitaries as a royal gift, and the King was said to have trusted his dogs more than his own councilors. After the king's death, the popularity of the breed among the nobles waned but it was still frequently found in its traditional role of protecting livestock. (1)

Appearance

The dogs of this breed are strong and large and carry a dense, wavy, white coat. Their pleasing appearance radiates nobility and strength. The individual body parts fit together harmoniously, the limbs being neither too short nor too long. 

The bone structure is strong but not coarse. The strong muscles are lean, the joints show clear outlines.

Seen from the side, the body forms a prone rectangle, almost a square. Well muscled, he shows a strong build, a lively temperament and great agility. His appearance embodies a tireless working ability. (2)

Temperament

The Kuvasz is brave and fearless. He defends the people entrusted to his care and his protection and their property, even with his life. He is self confident and may become aggressive if ill treated. He is faithful, dependable and loves his master and his surroundings. He needs plenty of exercise and must be kept busy. He is undermanding. His care is easy and he can stand very severe weather conditions. He appreciates any love and solicitude given to him. (2)

The Kuvasz is an intelligent dog and is often described as having a clownish sense of humor which can last throughout their adolescence and into adulthood.[2][3] They are intensely loyal and patient pets who appreciate attention but may also be somewhat aloof or independent, as well as thoroughly cunning, particularly with strangers. (2)

Sizes

Height at withers
Dogs: 71-76 cm
Bitches: 66-70 cm 

Weight
Dogs: 48-62 kg
Bitches: 37-50 kg (2)

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Kuvasz you may have think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about a Kuvasz and its needs and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.

1. DOGSAUSTRALIA.org.au
2. Wikipedia.org
3. Kuvasz Description And History
   
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