Hovawart

Developed in the Middle Ages as a recreation of the old Hofwarth Dogge, the German Hovawart is a hardy breed, well suited for work in every weather. While it has served its traditional purpose of a farm and livestock protector for ages, the breed has become very rare at the beginning of the 20th century. Although other attempts to revive the Hovawart existed, it was Kurt Konig that successfully saved the breed from the near-extinction in the 1920's. By collecting the remaining dogs found on farms throughout Germany and crossing them with Leonbergers, Sylvans, Newfoundlands and German Shepherds, the breed fanciers were able to preserve the Hovawart population, while also establishing the modern type of this old working Molosser. Officially recognized by the German Kennel Club in 1937, the Hovawart is an excellent watchdog and property guardian, but it also makes an impressive tracking hound and an easily trained service dog.

Hovawart's playfulness and self-assured personality, alongside its remarkable intelligence, make it a great family dog. Although the softening of the temperament of the breed through the rumoured employment of Golden Retriever blood has had an impact on the present-day incarnation of the Howavart, its immense devotion to family members can still result in serious over-protectiveness at times. This great breed from the Black Forest mountain regions is slowly making its way into cities all over Europe, but it still does better in a house with a large yard than an apartment. Strongly built, well-muscled and rugged, this is an agile and energetic Molosser.

The rich coat is usually around 8 inches long and with even longer feathering. The most common colour is black-n-tan, but all-black and all-tan dogs are also allowed and equally attractive. Average height is around 27 inches.