The Hungarian Kuvasz©

written by Steve Hounsell
President, Kuvasz Club of Canada
Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction
  • General Characteristics
  • Temperament
  • Suitability as a Companion Dog
2.0 Breeding the Kuvasz
3.0 Heritage and Historical Development
4.0 The Kuvasz as a Working Dog
  • Need and Use of Livestock Guard Dogs
  • Kuvasz as Livestock Protectors
  • The Working Kuvasz: Anecdotal Records
  • Characteristics of an Effective Livestock Guardian
  • Obtaining a Kuvasz for Livestock Protection
  • Training a Livestock Guardian
5.0 The Kuvasz as a Companion Dog and Property Guardian
  • Selecting and Raising a Kuvasz
  • Outdoors or Indoors?
  • Training and Socialization Requirements
  • Care and Feeding
  • Grooming and Coat Care Requirements
  • Exercise Requirements
6.0 Summary
Selected Bibliography
Appendix 1: Official Breed Standard for the Kuvasz (Canadian Kennel Club)
Appendix 2: Selected Livestock Guard Dog Association Breed Clubs
 6.0 Summary

So what is the Kuvasz? I hope that I have given you some insights into our wonderful breed and hope that I've addressed the many questions that I posed in the introduction. Is the Kuvasz for you? I've given you insights into the Kuvasz, you now have to examine yourself, your family and home. Are you the right owner? Are you prepared for the responsibility of owning one of the world's foremost guard dogs? Are you committed to the breed for its lifetime? Are you prepared for the socialization and training? If yes, then welcome to the Kuvasz. You have selected a rare, but very special breed of very ancient lineage. In return, you will be given a lifetime of love, devotion, companionship and protection!