Hovawart

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Intelligent German working breed developed as a versatile farm and estate guardian
• Deeply loyal to their family and often reserved or aloof with strangers
• Powerful, athletic dog that needs both mental and physical work to stay balanced
• Medium‑long weatherproof coat in three colours: black, black and tan, and blond
• Late‑maturing, steady character that usually reaches full mental maturity around 3 years of age

Appearance & Coat

The Hovawart is a large, powerful dog with a natural, unexaggerated look. At first glance, many people think of a slightly lighter and more athletic Golden Retriever or a less heavy Newfoundland, but the Hovawart has its own very distinct outline. Males generally stand around 63 to 70 centimetres at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, about 58 to 65 centimetres. Their body is slightly longer than it is tall, which gives them an impressive yet agile appearance. The chest is deep without being barrel shaped and the topline is straight and strong. This proportion makes the Hovawart a tireless mover, able to trot for long periods without losing energy or stability.

The head is strong but not coarse, with a broad skull that tapers gently toward the nose. The stop is clearly visible but not abrupt. Eyes are medium sized, oval and usually a warm brown, giving a calm, attentive expression. Ears are triangular, set high and lie close to the head, framing the face and adding to the gentle look. The tail is well feathered and carried in a slight curve that moves naturally with the dog, never too high or tightly curled.

The Hovawart has a medium‑long, slightly wavy coat with good feathering on the back of the legs, tail, and underside of the body. The undercoat is dense and helps the dog work comfortably in bad weather. This breed comes in three recognised colours:

• Black
• Black and tan
• Blond

Black Hovawarts are solid black with a rich shine in good condition. Black and tan dogs have clear markings on the face, chest, lower legs and under the tail. Blond Hovawarts range from a light honey tone to a deeper golden shade. In all colours, the coat should feel strong and full but not overly long or exaggerated. It is a working coat, not a showy one.

Coat care is actually quite manageable for such a large dog, provided it is done regularly. A good brushing two or three times per week usually keeps tangles away and spreads natural oils through the coat. Focus on areas where knots tend to form, such as behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits and along the trousers on the back legs. During spring and autumn shedding seasons, daily brushing can help manage the large amount of undercoat that comes out.

Bathing is needed only when the dog is dirty or has rolled in something unpleasant. The coat is naturally dirt resistant, so once dry, much of the mud falls out on its own. Trimming is rarely necessary, apart from slight tidying of excess hair between the toes and maybe around the ears for better airflow. Nails should be checked and clipped regularly, especially if the dog mostly moves on soft ground. With a simple but consistent grooming routine, the Hovawart keeps its noble, natural look and remains comfortable in all weather.

Temperament & Personality

The Hovawart is first and foremost a family guardian, and everything about its personality reflects that heritage. This is a deeply loyal dog that forms a strong, often intense bond with its people. Many owners describe their Hovawart as a shadow that quietly follows them from room to room, always watchful but not constantly demanding attention. They thrive on being included in family life, whether that means hiking, playing in the garden or simply resting at your feet while you work.

With children, a well bred and well socialised Hovawart is usually patient, calm and careful. They often take their self appointed role as protector quite seriously and may position themselves between the child and anything they perceive as strange. However, it is important to remember that this is a large, strong dog. Young Hovawarts can be boisterous and may accidentally knock over small children in play. As with any breed, supervision, gentle guidance and teaching children to respect the dog’s space are essential. When raised together and handled fairly, the relationship between a Hovawart and children can be very special.

Around strangers, the breed is typically reserved rather than outgoing. A Hovawart is not usually the kind of dog that runs to greet every visitor with wagging tail and open heart. Instead, they tend to observe new people calmly, sometimes with a serious expression, and decide for themselves whether this person is welcome. Good early socialisation to different people, sounds and environments is vital to prevent unnecessary suspicion or shyness. Once a Hovawart accepts someone as part of the “safe circle”, they often become warm and affectionate with that person as well.

With other dogs and pets, individual temperament and early experiences play a large role. Many Hovawarts live harmoniously with other dogs, especially if introduced carefully as puppies. They can, however, be quite self confident and will not always back down if challenged. Same sex tension is not uncommon in some lines. With cats and small animals, some Hovawarts do very well, particularly if raised with them, while others may show a stronger chase instinct outdoors. Slow introductions and clear rules are the key to peaceful coexistence.

One of the challenges of the breed is its independence. Compared to highly biddable breeds like Border Collies, the Hovawart often thinks for itself and questions commands. This trait comes from its background as a guard and farm dog that needed to make decisions without constant human direction. As a result, they can be stubborn or slow to respond if they do not see the point of what you are asking. At the same time, they are highly intelligent and sensitive, so harsh methods or shouting can easily damage trust.

Another typical feature is their strong guarding instinct. A Hovawart naturally takes responsibility for house and garden. They will bark when someone approaches the property or when they hear unusual noises at night. Many owners appreciate this alertness, but in urban or close neighbourhood settings it must be managed carefully. Good socialisation, clear rules about who is allowed to enter, and training a reliable “quiet” command can help prevent excessive barking.

In daily life, a well balanced Hovawart is calm indoors, affectionate with family, slightly serious with strangers and always ready for a walk or game. They are not a breed that thrives on constant busy stress, but they do need a structured life with company, tasks and regular exercise. Left alone for long days or without guidance, they may develop problem behaviours such as destructiveness, nervousness or inappropriate guarding. In the right home, however, their steady temperament, courage and devotion make them a truly remarkable companion.

Training & Exercise

Training a Hovawart is both rewarding and, at times, quite challenging. The breed combines intelligence and strong character with a deep sense of responsibility. They are fully capable of learning complex tasks and excel in a variety of dog sports, but they need to understand why something is worth doing. A mechanical, repetitive approach rarely suits them. Instead, they respond best to patient, consistent training that respects their nature and builds partnership.

Positive reinforcement with food, toys and sincere praise works well. Hovawarts enjoy using their brains and like to feel they have succeeded. Short, varied training sessions keep them focused and prevent boredom. Very young dogs can be distractible, so mixing play, simple obedience and small “puzzles” such as searching for hidden treats can be effective. At the same time, clear boundaries and polite manners should be established early. Jumping on people, rough mouthing or uncontrolled barking may seem cute in a puppy but is not acceptable in a full grown guardian.

Because they mature slowly, it is important not to expect perfect obedience too early. Many Hovawart adolescents go through a phase where they test limits and appear to “forget” what they learned as puppies. Staying calm, repeating key exercises and keeping routines predictable usually helps you through this period. Harsh corrections tend to create resistance or anxiety. Fair leadership, on the other hand, earns their respect. A Hovawart does not want a bossy drill sergeant but rather a confident, reliable partner.

Mental work is just as important as physical exercise. This breed was developed to watch, think and decide. Activities that involve problem solving and nose work are particularly satisfying:

• Tracking and man trailing
• Search and rescue style games
• Scent discrimination and article searches
• Obedience and rally exercises that require precision and attention

Many Hovawarts perform very well in dog sports such as obedience, tracking, man trailing, agility and canicross, provided the training remains fair and uplifting. They can also be found in practical work such as search and rescue, therapy visits and, in some countries, as assistance dogs for experienced handlers. Their protective instinct can be channelled into controlled protection sports, but this should only be done with careful selection, ethical trainers and a clear focus on stability and control.

Physical exercise needs are moderate to high. This is not a couch potato breed, but it is also not a frantic endurance athlete. An adult Hovawart usually needs at least 1.5 to 2 hours of varied activity per day, including:

• One or two good walks, with time to sniff and move freely
• Opportunities to run off leash in safe areas
• Structured games such as fetch, tug with rules, or short agility sessions
• Regular training tasks that engage the mind

Young dogs should not be over exercised on hard surfaces, especially with long runs or repeated jumping, since their joints are still developing. Free play on soft ground and several shorter walks suit them better than one extremely long march. Swimming, where safe, is an excellent low impact way to build muscle and stamina.

Consistency is the golden rule in living with a Hovawart. They quickly notice gaps in rules and will test whether you really mean what you say. If you allow a behaviour one day and correct it the next, confusion and conflict follow. If, on the other hand, your expectations are stable, your guidance calm and your training filled with small successes, you will earn a partner who works with you willingly and proudly.

Health

The Hovawart is generally considered a robust and relatively healthy breed for its size, but responsible owners should still be aware of potential health issues. A careful approach to breeding and regular veterinary care make a great difference in maintaining the breed’s well being and longevity.

As a large, deep chested dog, the Hovawart can be affected by hip and elbow dysplasia. These are developmental conditions where the joints do not fit perfectly, which can lead to arthritis and pain later in life. Reputable breeders have their breeding dogs X rayed and scored for hip and elbow quality and select carefully to reduce the risk. Prospective owners should always ask to see the official hip and elbow scores of both parents.

Other conditions that can appear in the breed include:

• Certain types of cancer in older dogs
• Hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones
• Eye problems, such as cataracts or minor eyelid issues in some lines
• Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord disease seen in several large breeds

Not every Hovawart will suffer from these issues, but awareness is important. Responsible breeders use recommended health tests, which may include:

• Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia evaluations
• Eye examinations by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist
• Genetic tests available in their country for relevant conditions such as degenerative myelopathy
• In some regions, additional checks like heart examinations depending on local club rules

A typical lifespan for a Hovawart is around 10 to 14 years, with many reaching their senior years in good condition if well cared for. Keeping the dog at a healthy weight is one of the most powerful tools owners have to support long term health. Extra kilos place unnecessary stress on joints, heart and internal organs. Because the breed is food motivated, it can be easy to overfeed with treats, so balancing rewards with daily rations is essential.

Another concern with deep chested breeds is gastric torsion, also known as bloat. This is a serious emergency where the stomach fills with gas and may twist. Not every Hovawart will experience bloat, but owners should know the signs, such as a swollen abdomen, restlessness, unsuccessful attempts to vomit and sudden weakness, and seek immediate veterinary help if they suspect it. Practical steps to reduce risk include feeding two or three smaller meals per day instead of one large one, avoiding heavy exercise right after eating and encouraging calm after larger meals.

Routine healthcare is important. Regular vaccinations, parasite control and dental care help prevent many problems. Large dogs are sometimes prone to wear on their teeth or tartar build up, so introducing tooth brushing gradually is a worthwhile habit. Ears should be checked weekly for redness or bad smell, especially in dogs that swim frequently.

Because Hovawarts mature slowly, their joints and growth plates need time to develop. Overtraining young dogs or allowing them to jump from heights repeatedly can contribute to problems later in life. A sensible combination of free play, age appropriate exercise and careful nutrition supports sound growth. Good breeders and veterinarians can guide new owners through feeding, supplements if needed, and realistic expectations for puppy and adolescent exercise.

In short, while the Hovawart is not an extremely fragile breed, it is still a large, complex living being that requires investment in health testing, quality food and ongoing veterinary support. Choosing a responsible breeder, keeping an eye on weight and providing thoughtful daily care all contribute to a long, active and comfortable life.

History & Origins

The Hovawart is an old German breed, with roots that reach back to medieval times. The name is thought to come from old German words similar to “Hofwart”, meaning “farm guardian” or “estate watchdog”. Historical texts and paintings describe and depict large, long coated dogs that guarded farms, livestock and castles in central Europe. These early guardian dogs protected their families and property from thieves, predators and intruders, often working largely on their own judgment.

By the late 19th century, however, many traditional farm breeds across Europe were in decline. Industrialisation, changes in agriculture and the growing popularity of foreign breeds pushed older types toward extinction. In Germany, a dedicated group of dog enthusiasts in the early 20th century began to search for remaining dogs that matched the old style of the Hovawart. They travelled through rural areas, especially the Black Forest region, looking for strong, reliable farm dogs of the right appearance and temperament.

These foundation dogs were then carefully bred and, in some cases, crossed with other working breeds such as German Shepherds, Leonbergers and possibly Newfoundlands to stabilise traits of guarding ability, courage and family attachment. Over time, through strict selection, the modern Hovawart type emerged. The breed was officially recognised in Germany in the 1930s.

During the Second World War, the Hovawart, like many other European breeds, suffered a severe setback. Numbers dropped and breeding was disrupted. After the war, committed fanciers rebuilt the population again, always with an emphasis on working ability and sound character rather than showy looks alone. The German breed club laid down clear guidelines about health and temperament that still influence responsible breeders worldwide.

Today, the Hovawart remains a relatively rare breed outside its homeland, but it has found devoted followers in many countries across Europe and beyond, including Scandinavia, France, the United Kingdom and North America. Modern Hovawarts are still valued as family guardians, but they are also seen in a variety of roles. Many take part successfully in tracking, search and rescue, man trailing, obedience and certain protection sports. Some individuals work in therapy programmes or as assistance dogs where their calm presence and strong bond with a handler can be used in a positive way.

Despite these modern activities, the essence of the breed’s original purpose remains visible. A good Hovawart is naturally territorial, attached to its “home”, vigilant yet not nervy, and closely tuned to the moods of its family. In a sense, owning a Hovawart today connects you with centuries of European farm and estate life, when a reliable dog at the gate was central to the household’s safety. That history explains why the breed is so devoted, protective and sometimes independent in its thinking. It is not a decorative companion invented for city life, but a working guardian adapted to modern families who appreciate its heritage and character.

Living with the Breed

Living with a Hovawart is a long term commitment that shapes everyday routines, from where you live to how you spend your free time. For the right person or family, this breed offers deep companionship, security and joy. For someone looking for an easy, low maintenance pet that fits into any situation without thought, the Hovawart may not be the best choice.

New owners should first consider their living environment. A house with a secure, well fenced garden is ideal. The Hovawart likes to patrol and keep an eye on its territory, and having outdoor space to do so helps fulfil that instinct. Apartments are not automatically unsuitable, especially if there is good access to parks and nature, but in such settings you must be prepared to provide extra structure, socialisation and exercise. A bored guardian dog listening to every sound through thin walls can easily become a nuisance barker.

Time commitment is another crucial factor. This breed does not thrive when left alone for long workdays on a regular basis. While an adult Hovawart can learn to stay alone for reasonable periods, daily life should include plenty of company, mental activity and physical movement. Families where someone works from home, or where schedules can be arranged so the dog has company most of the day, are often the best match. Consistency in routines, such as fixed times for walks, meals and quiet rest, helps the Hovawart feel secure and reduces stress.

Financially, owning a large, active breed brings ongoing costs. These typically include:

• Quality large breed food, with potential adjustments for growth, activity and age
• Regular veterinary care, vaccinations and parasite control
• Insurance, which can be significant for a big dog in some countries
• Training classes and possibly dog sports or working trials
• Equipment such as sturdy leads, well fitted harnesses, beds, grooming tools and safe toys

On average, annual costs can easily reach several hundred to over a thousand in local currency, depending on your country and level of activity, with unexpected veterinary bills always a possibility. It is wise to budget for emergencies or consider comprehensive pet insurance.

In terms of equipment, some items are especially useful for Hovawart owners:

• A strong, comfortable collar and a robust, non retractable lead
• A well designed harness for tracking, hiking or canicross
• A large, supportive bed or mattress that protects joints
• A good quality brush and comb for regular coat care
• Food puzzle toys and scent game accessories, such as treat dispensing balls or small containers for hiding food

Inside the home, clear rules help everyone relax. Decide early whether the dog is allowed on furniture, where it will sleep and how guests will be greeted. Teach polite greetings, such as sitting instead of jumping, and practise going to a mat or bed when the doorbell rings. This prevents your guardian from taking control of the front door and making their own decisions about visitors.

The breed’s protective nature also means careful planning when friends of children visit or when tradespeople enter the property. A crate or separate room where the dog can relax, with a chew or toy, is often a good idea until you understand how your individual Hovawart reacts. Many dogs, once they know the situation is under control, will accept guests calmly, but it is your responsibility to manage introductions and maintain safety.

Social life with a Hovawart can be rich. Many owners build strong friendships through training clubs or breed societies, where they meet others who share their appreciation for this special dog. Regular participation in group walks, tracking days or working trials keeps the dog fulfilled and offers guidance from experienced handlers. This support is particularly valuable in the challenging adolescent period.

In daily living, you can expect a mix of calm and activity. A well exercised Hovawart is usually quiet in the house, content to lie near you and watch the world. They often enjoy gentle physical contact, such as leaning against your legs or resting their head on your foot. At the same time, they remain alert and will quickly respond to unusual sounds, sometimes with deep, booming barks that may surprise visitors. Over time, many owners come to appreciate this sense of security.

Ultimately, living with a Hovawart means sharing your life with a thinking, feeling, independent guardian who will give everything to its family. If you have the time, patience, space and interest in training and partnership, this breed can become not only a pet, but a true companion in every aspect of your life.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does a Hovawart typically have with family and strangers?

This breed is usually deeply devoted and affectionate with its family, but naturally reserved or suspicious with strangers. Many are confident, calm and stable when well bred and well trained, yet they keep a strong protective instinct that needs thoughtful socialization from a young age.

How much daily exercise does a Hovawart really need?

Most adults need at least 1.5 to 2 hours of physical activity each day, plus regular mental challenges such as tracking, obedience or scent work. They were developed as working farm and guard dogs, so a quick walk around the block is not enough to keep them balanced and relaxed in the home.

Is a Hovawart a good choice for first time dog owners?

This breed is often too independent, strong willed and protective for most first time owners. They respond best to calm, consistent leadership and clear rules, so experience with medium or large working breeds is very helpful for managing their temperament and training needs.

How does a Hovawart compare to a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd in personality?

Compared with many Golden Retrievers, they are usually more reserved with strangers and have a stronger guarding instinct. Compared with many German Shepherds, they are often a bit more independent and less intense, but they still require similar levels of training, socialization and activity.

Are Hovawarts naturally good guard dogs or does that require special training?

They have a natural guarding and territorial instinct, which means many will alert and protect with minimal formal protection training. What they really need is careful socialization, obedience work and clear boundaries so that their guarding remains controlled and appropriate rather than anxious or overreactive.

What health issues are Hovawarts most prone to?

The main concerns are hip and elbow dysplasia, certain joint problems and occasionally thyroid or eye issues. Reputable breeders usually screen their breeding dogs for hip and elbow health, so it is important to ask about test results and avoid puppies from unscreened parents.

How much grooming does a Hovawart’s coat need and how much do they shed?

They have a long, weather resistant coat that typically needs brushing a few times a week to prevent tangles and to remove loose hair. Heavy seasonal shedding is common in spring and autumn, and more frequent brushing during those periods helps keep hair and mats under control.

Can a Hovawart live in an apartment or small home if exercised enough?

It is possible but not ideal, because they are a large, active guardian breed that benefits from space and a secure yard. If living in an apartment, they need very consistent, high quality daily exercise along with careful training to manage barking and their natural watchdog behavior.

Are Hovawarts good with children and other pets?

Many are gentle and tolerant with children in their own family if raised with them and supervised, but their size and strength mean adults must always oversee interactions. With other dogs and small pets, early controlled socialization is important, since some individuals can be selective or territorial, particularly as they mature.

How trainable are Hovawarts and what training approach works best?

They are intelligent and capable, but also independent and sometimes slow to mature, so training should be firm, fair and patient rather than harsh or repetitive. Short, varied sessions that combine obedience, scent work and problem solving usually suit them better than drilling the same exercises for long periods.

Sources

• Hovawart Club of Great Britain
• Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH) - Hovawart
• Svenska Hovawartklubben
• Hovawart Club e.V. (Germany)
• Hovawart Club de France