Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is similar in appearance to the Great Pyrenees. They are both probably descended from dogs of Tibet, but the Kuvasz developed in Hungary instead of France.

The Kuvasz was originally the dog of kings, especially King Mattias I, ruler of Hungary from 1458 to 1490, but eventually Kuvaszok (plural for Kuvasz) were owned by regular citizens, too. They were developed into skillful guardians of sheep and cattle. This is the work they do today.

The Kuvasz is a protective dog. He is brave, strong, and suspicious of strangers. But when he makes a friend, it's for life. He is extra protective of children. Obedience training is important. The Kuvasz needs space and exercise in large amounts. But he also needs loving attention from his family, to whom he is devoted. He may not always show it on the outside, but he longs for his family's affection.

The Kuvasz's coat is thick, long, and white. It sheds year round, even with twice-weekly brushing.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: A large working dog, sturdily built; white with no markings; well muscled without bulkiness. Moves freely, showing strength and activity.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--males, 28 to 30 inches at the withers; females, 26 to 28 inches. Weight--males, approximately 100 to 115 pounds; females, 70 to 90 pounds.

Fun Facts

To ensure a close connection with the flocks they protect, working Kuvasz puppies are raised with the baby lambs. The soft, woolly white bundles grow up together, devoted friends. They form a deep attachment to each other. The lambs trust the dogs completely. And the dogs feel completely responsible for the sheep.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.