The
Kuvasz is not the dog for everyone. It is not a relationship to be entered
into lightly.
If
you are willing to make the commitment for early
socialization and training, it can be the relationship
of a lifetime.
They are a large, sturdy, powerful
animal with strong protective instincts. They are
fiercely loyal and extremely intelligent. They will
protect their loved ones even if it means to sacrifice
their own life to do it.
The Kuvasz is extremely loyal and
ownership should be considered a life long commitment.
They are slow to mature. Full maturity may not be
achieved until three years old. Females mature more
quickly than males but there is not much difference
between the male and female in temperament. The males
tend to be a little more mellow as adults, but can be a
little more difficult during adolescence.
Their intelligence differs from other
breeds of dogs. Dogs like the Golden Retriever, German
Shepherd, etc., were bred to work with, and take
instruction from, man. Breeds like the Kuvasz were bred
to work independently of man and can therefore make
decisions on their own.
If you are attracted to this breed
purely because they are “pretty,” you, and the breed,
would be better served if you obtained a different breed
of dog. They are not overgrown, very light, easy-going
Golden Retrievers and don't behave like one either.
The Kuvasz has a unique sense of humor
and will most likely begin entertaining you from the day
you take him home. They are very affectionate and willing
to please their families. They are by nature suspicious
of anything unfamiliar. A great deal of socializing in
their first year is very important to teach the dog that
not everyone is a threat. This does NOT hurt the dog’s
guarding instinct, but serves to enhance it.
A Kuvasz with
correct temperament will only apply the necessary
amount of force. He/she will posture, bark, growl,
then escalate to a sort of charge, then retreat.
Most anyone faced with a large breed dog with such a
display will decided they do not want to tangle with
the dog. This is where the Kuvasz excels over many
other breeds. They are happy about that. They lack
the chase/prey drive of some other breeds and are
perfectly happy to see the intruder (animal or
human) depart.
The AKC standard for
the breed says they will sacrifice their lives to
protect their loved ones. Their guarding instinct
comes from an over-developed maternal instinct -
they would most definitely sacrifice themselves if
necessary!
The Kuvasz is a working
dog and therefore has an inherent need to have a job to
do. He has worked for centuries as a guardian; protecting
sheep, goat, and horse herds from predators, thieves, and
other dangers. This natural guarding instinct will serve
to protect his human family, his territory and other
animals.
The dog
cannot be expected to guard his family if he does not
form a strong attachment to them. He cannot realize his
full potential if just left out in a kennel or backyard.
He is not a dog to be chained or allowed to run loose.
He is happiest when included in household and family
activities.
A
properly socialized Kuvasz can be included in family
gatherings with company, or out on public excursions
amidst strangers without worry. He will react fearlessly
to
any real threats to you and your family, but can also be
a social magnet for people who want to pet him.
They are capable of being gentle
with a baby, or rough house playing with an older child or
adult. (Babies and toddlers do not smell,
move, or look like regular people to a dog.
NEVER leave a baby alone with a
dog of ANY breed or any size. )
A
Kuvasz with a correct temperament will take a special
interest in children.
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