Kuvasz

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The Kuvasz originated in Tibet, but developed into the breed it is today in Hungary.

Some authors claim that the Kuvasz has been known since the age of the Huns. Others describe it as a sheepdog that accompanied the Turkish refugees and their flocks fleeing the Mongols into Hungary in 1200. Its name in Turkish means "protector."

The dog was owned by royalty in the fifteenth century in the court of King Matyas I, who lived from 1458-1490. The King claimed to only trust his Kuvasz dogs and not people.

The Kuvasz were often given as royal gifts. At the death of the King, the Kuvasz returned to being a flock guardian throughout the medieval period.

They were also used to hunt big game such as wild boar and bear. As Hungarian herdsmen traveled with their cattle and dogs, Kuvasz contributed to the development to the Maremma Sheepdog, Great Pyrenees, Polish Tatra Sheepdog and the Anatolian Shepherd, which are all flock guards.

The Kuvasz is a fearless, bold flock guardian. In the show ring the head is considered the most beautiful part of the dog. The muzzle is in proportion to the head. The stop is well-defined, not abrupt. The nose is black with large nostrils. The lips are black. The ears are thick, well set back, V-shaped and slightly rounded at the tip. The dark brown eyes are almond-shaped, set well apart.

The body is medium boned and slightly longer than it is tall. The tail is carried low, and is not docked, reaching at least to the hocks. When the dog is excited the tail is slightly raised. The feet are well padded and the dewclaws on the front legs are not usually removed, but the ones on the back legs are. The neck has a mane that reaches the chest. The hair is shorter on the feet and head, but on the body and legs it is wavy and can be as much as 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long.

Temperament: Intelligent, Patient, Clownish, Loyal, Protective, Independent

Health Problems: N/N