The Golden Hovawart Breed Guide

The Golden Hovawart is a loyal and intelligent breed that originated in Europe. They have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming.

Their size ranges from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder, making them a medium to large breed. They weigh between 70 and 115 pounds.

Golden Hovawarts are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them great family dogs.

The Hovawart is a breed that's known for its strong head with large, gentle eyes and triangular, drooping ears. Its body is elongated and athletic, with an upright posture and expansive movements.

These dogs are naturally protective of their families, but early socialization can help them become more comfortable around strangers. They have especially loving personalities towards children and can get along well with other pets when introduced at a young age.

The Hovawart comes in three colors: black markings, blond, and pure black. Black markings feature a dark outer coat and light belly and bib, while blond Hovawarts have a cream-colored coat. Pure black Hovawarts are a rarer coloration.

Here's a breakdown of the Hovawart's characteristics:

Hovawarts are naturally active dogs that thrive on exercise and mental stimulation. If they don't get enough physical and mental activity, they can become bored and develop destructive behaviors.

The Hovawart breed has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. They were originally bred as guardians of flocks, castles, and farms of German barons.

Their name, "Hovawart", translates to "yard guard" from Middle High German. This name perfectly captures their original purpose.

In the early 1900s, the Hovawart's popularity began to decline, and by the 1920s, their population was severely depleted. This was largely due to the rise of other breeds like the German Shepherd.

However, determined breeders like Kurt Friedrich König stepped in to revive the breed. They cross-bred the remaining Hovawarts with other working breeds, including German Shepherds, Leonbergers, and Newfoundlands.

The Hovawart received official recognition from the German Kennel Club in 1937. This marked a significant turning point for the breed.

Unfortunately, the breed suffered significantly during World War II, with many Hovawarts being used for military purposes. After the war, only a few remained, but breed enthusiasts worked tirelessly to recreate the breed.

Thanks to their efforts, the Hovawart is now a recognized breed in many countries, including the UK, where it first appeared in 1980.

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A golden Hovawart's grooming needs are relatively low maintenance, but regular brushing is a must to prevent matting and tangling of their beautiful long hair.

You'll need to brush your golden Hovawart's coat regularly to remove dirt, debris, and loose hair.

Their nails grow fast, so be prepared to trim them regularly to prevent cracking or splitting.

To keep their ears clean and prevent infections, check and clean their ears regularly with a dog-safe solution and a cotton ball.

Don't forget to brush your golden Hovawart's teeth regularly to prevent dental infections and maintain good dental hygiene.

In the winter, be prepared for lumps of snow or slush to accumulate in their fur and between their pads, so make sure to remove these before entering the home.

Expand your knowledge: Hovawart

The Golden Hovawart is a breed that's steeped in history and tradition. The breed group for the Hovawart is mentioned in one of the resources, but unfortunately, it's not specified what group it falls under.

If you're curious about your dog's ancestry, you can try a DNA test like Wisdom Panel's. They can help you determine if your dog is indeed a Hovawart or another breed altogether.

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To keep your Golden Hovawart at a healthy weight, feed them two times per day. This will help you avoid overfeeding, which can lead to canine obesity and cause health problems.

Using a measuring cup when portioning out their meals is a good idea to avoid accidental overfeeding. This is especially important for large-breed dogs like the Golden Hovawart.

Choosing high-quality dog food will help your Golden Hovawart live a long, healthy life. This is because high-quality food is formulated to meet their nutritional needs.

As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog's calories. This means counting calories from treats in their daily totals is essential.

Talk with your veterinarian to determine the best type of food and portion plan for your specific Golden Hovawart, taking into account their activity level and stage of life.

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When choosing a harness for your Golden Hovawart, consider a wide collar or a harness that provides better support for dogs of this size. A harness is always a safer option to prevent choking.

The Hovawart's build is uncomplicated, making it easy to find large-sized accessories that fit. Most likely, you'll need to wash your Hovawart's clothes more often due to their love for getting dirty and wet.

Leather harnesses may look smart, but they can quickly become brittle when wet and dirty. Easy-care materials are a must for your Hovawart's accessories.

For a dog bed, consider a basket made of wicker or plastic, as it's easier to change blankets and cushions. This is especially important for young Hovawarts that can get carried away with playtime.

Don't leave your Hovawart to its own devices with toys; spend quality time with your dog and engage in activities like bicycle tours together. You can find special bike sets in accessory shops.

Other essentials include water and food bowls, tick tweezers, claw clippers, mild dog shampoo, a brush and comb, toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs, a transport box for car travel, and a first aid kit. Be sure to consult with your vet for guidance on what to include in the first aid kit.