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. By the end of World War ll the breed was almost extinct. A handful of breeders worked to bring the breed back to safe numbers.
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Kuvaszs as Watch Dogs?
The Kuvasz[a] is a traditional Hungarian breed of flock guardian dog. Mention of the breed can be found in old Hungarian texts. They have historically been royal guard dogs, or guarded livestock, but have been increasingly found in homes as pets over the last seventy years.
Are Kuvaszs Aggressive?
They’re a naturally friendly breed. But, as previously mentioned, Kuvasz can be aggressive to strangers, and if they are kenneled.
Kuvaszs Background
Family and Bonding
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Friendly
The Kuvasz is a large, protective dog that is sweet and loyal towards its family. It has moderate exercise needs, which can be met in the form of long walks or short runs. It likes being outdoors and vigorous play. It can get domineering. It’s friendly towards children but perhaps not playful enough. It’s also likely to protect the children in its adopted family from other children. It can get aggressive towards other dogs and strangers. One of the oldest dog breeds of Hungarian descent, the Slovakian Kuvasz was a favorite guard dog for the noble classes. This breed quietly sits by when in the presence of new people or animals, checking them out before reacting. Are they a threat or will they cause no harm? Because they’re very protective of their property and family, they will fend off any unwanted intruders who threaten the peace or safety of the household. They tolerate pain and discomfort well, making them perfect pets for kids who want to jump on them and play. This dog is a large one, with an imposing presence. They like to be the dominant one in any relationship; therefore, owners must make it known early on who the leader is. Consistency is required to raise an obedient Kuvasz, with firm yet kind training through positive reinforcement. These dogs crave socialization so owners should take care to get them playing with other dogs on a regular basis.
Kuvasz Nature
This breed is bold, brave and fearless. They were bred to work independently, which means they are not easy to obedience train. Training should never be harsh, but rather needs to be calm but firm, by a confident experienced, dominant person. The handler needs to have an air of natural authority to them. This dog needs to be controlled with the mind, not the hand. The dog will be looking for a leader and owners need to be stronger minded than the dog. They will be willful with meek or passive owners. All members of the family need to be taught how to handle the dog right from puppyhood. Owners need to teach the dog to accept welcomed guests and to look to the owner for leadership, rather than the dog expecting the owners to look to him for leadership. The biggest key to training a Kuvasz is to understand the nature of the breed as an independent guardian. It is very important NOT to use harsh training methods, but rather calm, firm methods.
Intelligence
What to do if your Kuvasz pulls their leash or refuses to go where you want to when you taking a walk; after learning these methods, your walks with your pet will be relaxing and easy, not frustrating and tiresome.
Love
Kuvaszs as a Pack Animal
The Kuvasz’s name comes from the Turkish word “kawasz,” meaning “armed guard of the nobility. ” He originated in Tibet, but developed into the breed he is today in Hungary. The breed served as a companion to the rulers of Hungarian and other European empires and was owned only by royalty. Hundreds of years later, the breed fell into the hands of “commoners,” and shepherds found they worked well with sheep and cattle. It was in Hungary that the Kuvasz developed into the form in which he is seen today. He is still a big dog but not the giant of ancient times. King Mathias I, who reigned from 1458 to 1490 had at least one Kuvasz with him at all times. He developed a large pack for hunting purposes. The scope of his breeding did much to perpetuate a strain of the breed. Surplus puppies were presented only to the noblemen and to visiting dignitaries.
Physical Traits
The Kuvasz is a big, fluffy, lovable, and loyal dog breed that hails from Hungary. Although due to its size, it’s mostly recommended for people who have houses and yards instead of apartments, it can still adapt to the latter if it gets enough exercise.