Find the Right Breed of Dog for You
Dive into over 300 breed in our all inclusive online resource


Hovawart
Large Breed
The Hovawart is a medium-sized and very powerful dog. Among the breed's talents are watchdog, guard dog, tracking and rescue work.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Germany
Weight
25-51kg/55-90lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males 63-70cm/24 3/4 - 27 1/2 inches;
Females 58-65cm / 22 3/4 - 25 1/2 inches (standards may vary)
Coat
Long coat
Markings
Three colour varieties: black/gold, black, blond. Black/Gold: Medium-blond markings on a black coat. Black: Small white spots on the chest and single white hairs on the toes and the tip of the tail are permissible. Eyelids, lips and pads are black. Blond: the coat becomes lighter towards the legs and belly.
Lifespan
Average, 10-14 years
Although typically a working dog, the Hovawart is very adaptable and makes a fine companion. Good-natured, of an even temperament, playful and gentle with children, the Hovawart makes the perfect family pet.
Temperament
The Hovawart is of a kind and even disposition. He is self-confident, alert and courageous with a strong protective instinct. Faithful, trustworthy and loyal, the Hovawart is a pleasant family dog and gentle with children. A versatile and alert working dog, he has a very good nose for tracking and rescue as well as being a guard dog and good companion. Training requires consistency and patience, even though he is easy to train.
-
PoorChildrenGood
-
VeryCombativenessNot very
-
VeryDominanceNot very
-
Not veryFriendlinessGood
-
Not veryIndependenceVery
-
LoudNoiseQuiet
-
Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Hovawart is a magnificent, agile dog, of great strength and power and covered in a luxurious coat. Devoted to his family and good with children, he will be protective of his territory.
- Makes a wonderful companion and family pet
- Extremely versatile and intelligent
- An excellent guard dog and watchdog
- No trimming or stripping required
- Little grooming needed
- Not recommended for apartment living
- Requires sufficient daily exercise
- Moderately active indoors
- Can be prone to hip dysplasia