The Hovawart is a large dog breed of German origin. The Hovawart is first and foremost a working dog, but is also well suited as a sport and family dog. The FCI leads the Hovawart in group 2.
The life expectancy of the Hovawart is usually 12 to 14 years. In some cases, however, the animals can live up to 17 years.
Males weigh about 40 kilograms and reach a height at the withers between 63 and 70 centimetres, while female Hovawarts with 30 kilograms and a size of 58 to 65 centimetres are considerably smaller and lighter, which is also noticeable with a narrower head.
The Hovawart has a powerful, stretched physique. His head is strong and has a curved, broad forehead. The eyes of the Hovawart are brown. His hanging ears have a triangular shape.
The coat is slightly wavy and long, and the Hovawart can have three different colours with black, blond and black marks.
The Hovawart is characterized by his reliable character as well as a strong and self-confident character. Due to his original breeding goal he still has a pronounced waking instinct, which makes him an excellent guard dog.
If the Hovawart has a good connection to his family, he proves to be a faithful and loyal companion for his owners. However, it is important to offer him clear structures in his upbringing and posture. Owners of a Hovawart should therefore have the necessary experience in dog keeping.
The Hovawart is still first and foremost a working dog that needs employment and tasks. Thanks to its excellent sense of smell, it is well suited as a sniffer dog, which is also often used as a police and protection dog.
Apart from that the Hovawart is nowadays also a popular companion and sport dog, which should be challenged in every case both physically and mentally sufficiently.
In principle, Hovawarts are strong and robust dogs. Nevertheless, there are some diseases which can occur more often in this breed and to which owners should therefore be prepared.
When feeding the Hovawart, a special dog food of good quality should be used. This is the only way to ensure that the four-legged friend is supplied with all the necessary nutrients.
In addition, the energy needs of the Hovawart should be considered. In its determination it is necessary to consider various factors such as age, weight and sporting activities.
With regard to these diseases, we recommend a dietary supplement with Bellfor Gelenke & Knochen (Joints & Bones) to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia.
In the case of hypothyroidism, in addition to treatment with hormones, it is also advisable to adjust the intake of iodine via the feed.
A disease with liver shunt cannot be prevented by a certain diet. However, if the disease occurs, in addition to treatment by a veterinarian, it is advisable to take a dietary food with a reduced content of fat, proteins, copper and iron to relieve the liver. In addition, the proportion of certain amino acids, such as methionine, in dog food must be kept low.
Bellfor's nutrition concept supports the healthy development of your Hovawart from an early age.