Kuvasz Information
The Kuvasz arrived with nomadic tribes in Hungary's Carpathian Basin in 896 AD. They were first bred by herdsmen and shepherds, and later by the Hungarian nobility.
King Matthias I had at least one of these dogs with him wherever he went. He relied more on his dogs than his human guards since he knew the dog was more loyal and reliable than any human.
He became so impressed with the breed that he developed a large pack to be used for hunting purposes. His kennels on his large estates in Siebenbuergen were among the most impressive in Europe. Specially selected puppies from his kennels were given to favored noble visitors.
Eventually many of these dogs came into the hands of the commoners, but this was long after the time of King Mathias I. Herders found them suitable for work with the sheep and cattle.
The devastation of World War I and World War II took a toll on the Kuvasz. These dogs protected their property, livestock and families and where shot by the invading soldiers. Few of the dogs escaped the slaughter, and then many of the dogs died of starvation due to the food shortages after the wars. Hostile ethnic groups in the neighboring countries massacred the local Kuvasok just for being Hungarian. When breeders within Hungary were able to salvage the breed in the 1950's, only twelve could be found in the entire country, and all of their registration records had been destroyed.
The Kuvasz is a very intelligent, loyal and courageous breed. They are very sensitive to both praise and blame. They are not suited for a non assertive owner, and are not the breed for everyone.
Males should stand at 28 to 30 inches tall and weigh 100 to 115 pounds, females 26 to 28 inches and weigh 70 to 90 pounds. Their coat is coarse and should be all white.
Health concerns in the breed include Panosteitis and Osteochondritis.
Ad rate is $15 per month.
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