Dogs

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Germany.

MOST SUITED AS Watchdog and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 63 - 70cm (241/2 - 271 /2in) for dogs and 58 - 65cm (23 - 26in) for bitches.

COAT
The Hovawart has a long-haired, wavy coat which lies flat. The colours are plain black, black with a marking, and blonde.

CARE REQUIRED
The coat does not require a great deal of attention. An occasional brush and comb (particu­larly in places where tangles might form) is sufficient.

CHARACTER
Good-natured, equable, demanding of itself, loyal to the family but with the tendency to become a one-person's dog, affectionate, vigilant and protective, attentive, and a good watchdog. The Hovawart has a good scenting nose and remains playful until old age.

TRAINING
The Hovawart learns quickly what you expect of it. The best results are achieved with extremely consistent, loving, and a well-balanced training. Hovawarts are ideally suited as tracking, avalanche, watch, and defence dogs.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
Behaviour towards other household animals is good regardless of whether it is a cat or poul­try. This is true provided the dog has met these animals when it was young. They are generally very patient with children but sometimes re­served towards strangers.
It will protect your property against intruders with great zeal. When its handler indicates that visitors are approved, then it accepts them immediately.

EXERCISE
The Hovawart adapts itself to the circum­stances. Take the dog for regular long walks and let it enjoy running and playing off the lead. A great advantage of this breed is that it has a highly developed sense of territory and will not readily desert your property.