Overview
The Hovawart was recreated in the early twentieth century from old German farm dogs whose job was to guard the yard. It is a large, long-coated breed in black, black and gold or blond, and strangers often mistake the blond ones for a retriever. The temperament is different: a Hovawart is watchful, slow to mature and strongly bonded to its own household.
They are calm in the house and surprisingly athletic outside. In the UK they remain uncommon, mostly in the hands of owners who train seriously, so expect a dog with a good foundation but a clear sense of who it belongs to.
Exercise and walking needs
Ninety minutes a day for an adult, and it should include thinking as well as walking. Search games, carrying a toy, and some lead work with changes of direction all keep a Hovawart engaged. Pure distance without purpose bores them.
They mature late, often not fully until two or three. Keep young dogs off repetitive high-impact games until the owner gives the go-ahead.
On the walk
- Guarding: The dog will position itself to watch for you and may be cool with people who approach too quickly. It is rarely aggressive but it is always assessing.
- Recall: Good with a handler it trusts, though a strange walker should earn it first. Start on a long line and build from there.
- Other dogs: Generally tolerant and not a bully, but will not back down if challenged. Avoid tense face to face greetings with dominant dogs.
- Strength: A thirty to forty kilo dog that decides to move is a lot to hold. Keep lead handling calm and anticipate rather than react.
Tips for professional walkers
- Give the dog something to carry or find; a Hovawart with a job walks better than one without.
- Arrange a handover visit with the owner before the first solo walk.
- Brush out the feathering on the legs and tail after muddy walks.
- Avoid heat; the long dark coat heats up fast in direct sun.
What to ask the owner
- What training does the dog have, and which commands does it respond to reliably?
- How does it behave if someone approaches me or the car on a walk?
- Any hip or joint history to be aware of, and are there activities the vet has ruled out?