The Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is an ancient breed of dog that originates from Hungary. The Kuvasz predeceasing breed is believed to date back to 200 B. C. as they are known to have been used by the Magyar tribe. The Magyar tribe conquered Hungary in 896 A. D. and with their conquering force came the Kuvasz-type dogs. The Kuvasz has traditionally been used as a livestock guardian and to also guard royal palaces. In 1978, a fossilized skeleton of a 9th Century Kuvasz-type dog was discover near Keszthely. The morphology of the fossilized dog's skeleton is almost identical to that of the modern Kuvasz, which makes the Kuvasz one of the oldest identifiable dog breeds as few breeds date back as far as the 9th Century! The Kuvasz breed became almost extinct during World War II. The Kuvasz breed was known to fiercely defend their families and were therefore often exterminated by the invading German and Soviet armies. After the war fewer than thirty Kuvasz remained in Hungary. Since the breed's near extermination, dedicated breeds have actively worked to revitalize the Kuvasz breed. Fortunately, the Kuvasz has seen an increase in popularity due to the successful work of the dedicated breeders! The Kuvasz is a large breed of dog that has an extremely dense white double coat that is known to be odorless. Despite the breed's coat being white, the Kuvasz's skin is actually of a blackish pigment and they have a large round black nose. The breed's coat and skin coloration are signifiers of the breed's history in livestock guarding, as they look very similar to sheep and could therefore camouflage themselves amongst them. The temperament of dogs is normally affected by the following factors: individual personality, heredity, training and socialization. It is therefore important to make sure that you meet the puppy's mother before purchasing a Kuvasz. It is also important to make sure to thoroughly socialize your Kuvasz with strangers, children and other animals during its puppyhood. Generally speaking, the Kuvasz is known to be an intelligent, loyal, patient and humorous breed. Due to their history in livestock guarding, the Kuvasz is also known to be a highly intelligent, independent and trainable breed that is more than capable of looking after itself. While the Kuvasz is highly affectionate towards its family and people it known, the breed is very wary of strangers and unknown dogs. It is important to closely monitor your Kuvasz whenever it meets someone new or when it is off its leash. It is important to note that as a working breed, the Kuvasz has a high amount of energy which needs to be expended. If the Kuvasz has a buildup of energy it is likely to develop destructive behaviors due to boredom or hyperactivity. Before purchasing any pet it is important to understand that as a pet owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet. It is important to try and learn as much as you can about the animal you are considering to keep as a pet to make sure that your lifestyle, household and financial status are suited to provide your pet with the best possible care. This guide has been designed to provide you with both precise and concise information about a Kuvasz's basic needs to help you provide your pet with the best quality care practices. This guide will give an in-depth explanation on training your Kuvasz, raising your Kuvasz from a puppy, grooming, health care and everything in between! "The Kuvasz: A Complete and Comprehensive Owners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your Kuvasz," by Michael Stonewood is the perfect purchase or gift for a first time Kuvasz owner. This guide includes sections on caring for a puppy, breeding, health care, training, the basic cost of owning a Kuvasz and much more. This book is the second edition - the first edition was published by 'Dog Care Professionals.'