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Hovawart Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Hovawart so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Guard Dogs
Popularity Rank375
Reviews2
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Hovawart dog profile picture
OriginGermany flagGermany
Other Names
What other names does the Hovawart have?
Hovie
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Hovawart Size and Weight

Size
Is a Hovawart small, medium or large dog?

How big do Hovawart get?

What is the average size of a Hovawart?

LargeGiant
Weight
How much does the Hovawart weigh? How much should a Hovawart weight? What is the normal weight of a Hovawart? How much does a full-grown Hovawart weight?
55 - 90 pounds (25 - 51 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Hovawart?
55 - 90 pounds (25 - 51 kg)
Height
How tall is the Hovawart? Hovawart height:
23 - 28 inches (58 - 70 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Hovawart?
23 - 28 inches (58 - 70 cm)

Hovawart Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Hovawart puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Hovawart in the United States? How much money is a Hovawart?

Where to buy a Hovawart with a good pedigree?

$1000-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Hovawart, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Hovawart for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Hovawart gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Hovawart? How many Hovawart are there in the world?
Average: The Hovawart is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Hovawart Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Hovawart? Is the Hovawart breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Hovawart ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Hovawart dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Hovawart?
Hovawart dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Hovawart good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Hovawart dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Hovawart dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Hovawart dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Hovawart dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Hovawart can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Hovawart will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Hovawart Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Hovawart have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ActiveDevotedOutrightTemperedWatchfulReserved
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Hovawart sensitivity:
Hovawart dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Hovawart a good family dog?
Average to High: Hovawart dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Hovie need? Hovawart social needs:
Hovawart dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Hovawart to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Hovawart roam?
Hovawart dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Hovawart have high prey drive?
Hovawart dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Hovawart Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Hovawarts, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Hovawart dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Hovie bark?
Low to Average: The Hovawart rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Hovawart good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Hovawart in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Hovawart breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Hovawart indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Hovawart Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Hovawart dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Hovawart be left alone? How long can you leave a Hovawart alone?
Hovawart dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Hovawart Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Hovawart has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Hovawart? How much bite force does a Hovawart have? How strong is a Hovawart bite?

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Hovawart bite force: The Strongest. The Hovawart bite force is among the strongest in the canine world. The bite force Hovawart measurements are typically quite high, which is a testament to their powerful and large stature. The bite force of Hovawart dogs is impressive, and their Hovawart bite PSI is reflective of their powerful nature.

The Hovawart PSI bite should be respected, and appropriate precautions should be taken when interacting with these dogs. The PSI of a Hovawart bite is high, making them one of the strongest breeds in terms of bite force.

They are very protective of themselves and their families, therefore a dog bite from them could be exceptionally dangerous with their PSI being above 400.

To ensure a well-behaved and controlled dog, it's important to learn how to train a Hovawart puppy not to bite from an early age. It is important that they’re trained to be around others safely.

Biting Potential
Do Hovawart bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Hovie? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Hovawart? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Hovawart has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Hovawart do?
Hovawart dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Hovawart dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Hovawart Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Hovawart dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Hovawart is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Hovawart breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Hovawart breed? Most common health risks of Hovawart:
Hip Dysplasia Underactive Thyroid
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Hovawart breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Hovawart see the vet?
Average
The Hovawart should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Hovawart dogs live? How old can a Hovawart be? What is the age limit of the Hovawart? How many years can the oldest Hovawart live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Hovawart?

How long is the lifespan of a Hovawart?

10-14 years
The average lifespan of Hovawart: 12 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Hovawart Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Hovawart have? What is the activity level of the Hovawart?
Hovawart dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Hovawart need? How much exercise do Hovawart dogs require per day?

Do Hovawart dogs need a lot of exercises?

Hovawart dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Hovawart breed need?
Hovawart dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Hovawart Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Hovawart need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Hovawart breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Hovawart? How much food should I feed my Hovawart?
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Hovawart risk for obesity:
Average: The Hovawart has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Hovawart weight regularly.

Hovawart Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Hovawart have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Silky
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Hovawart coats?
BlackBlonde Golden
Grooming
How to groom the Hovawart and how often? How often should I take my Hovawart to the groomer?
Easy to groom: The Hovawart doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Hovawart is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Hovawart dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Hovie? Do Hovawart dogs shed a lot?
Hovawart dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Hovawart need a bath? How often should you give a Hovawart a bath? Can I bathe my Hovawart every day?
2-3 weeks
Frequent. This breed has high-maintenance hair and may require a bath every 2-3 weeks. For example, oilier breeds may need to be bathed up to once a week.

Because many of these breeds are short-haired, a nice brushing won’t do much to redistribute the oils, so while these oils do protect the dog’s skin from overdrying, they can carry a pretty pungent odor.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Hovawart breed hypoallergenic?
No
Hovawart dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Hovawart has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Hovawart drool?
The Hovawart is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the Hovawart could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the Hovawart.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Hovawart Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Hovawart dogs get along with other pets? Are Hovawart dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Hovawart dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Hovawart temperament with other people:
Hovawart dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Hovawart dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Hovawart temperament with children:
Hovawart dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Hovawart dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Hovawart breed live with a cat?
Hovawart dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Hovawart good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Hovawart dogs get along with other dogs?
Hovawart dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Hovawart can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Hovawart breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Hovawart breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Hovawart dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Hovawart dogs good office canines? Do Hovawart dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Hovawart is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Hovawart dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Hovie temperament with senior people? Are Hovawart dogs good for elderly owners?
Hovawarts are usually recommended for elderly people.

Hovawart As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Hovawart be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Hovawart is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Hovawart be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Hovawart be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Hovawart is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Hovawart be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Hovawart is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Hovawart be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Hovawart is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Hovawart be a boat dog?

Not really

Hovawart breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Hovawart be a drafting dog?

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Hovawart breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Hovawart dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Hovawart Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Hovawart pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Hovawart breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Hovawart: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Hovawart have in a litter? How many puppies can the Hovawart breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Hovawart have? How many puppies can a Hovawart give birth to?
6-8 puppies

Hovawart Recognition

AKC Group
Is Hovawart recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Hovawart recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Molossian type section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Hovawart breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Continental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubFoundation Stock Service

Hovawart Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Trainability: Hovawart dogs are easy to train.
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Hovawart doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Hovawart is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Hovawart dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Hovawart dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Hovawart dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Adaptability: Hovawart dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Hovawart dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Hovawart dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Hovawarts are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Hovawart dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Hovawart dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Hovawart breed.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Hovawart dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Hovawart is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The Hovawart Breed

Hovawart Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Anna

    Feb 23, 2023, 10:50:15 PM:

    Even though they are really smart dogs, they are really stubborn and training has to be very consistent. I wouldn't recomend them as frist time dogs. Still they are very friendly and cuddly, but not for beginners as listed here.

  • Ryder

    Jan 5, 2020, 9:40:58 AM:

    A really good breed very friendly with all family members and reliable at guarding and are always vigilant