Hovawart — breed guide
A German estate guardian named in a 1200s legal text, rebuilt in the 1920s from farm dogs. Guards without the hair trigger of the mastiff breeds.
At a glance
- Group
- working
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 25–50 kg (55–110 lb)
- Life span
- 10–14 years
- Coat
- Long, slightly wavy, medium-dense double coat
Living with a Hovawart
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Moderate shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Vocal when there is a reason.
- Good with children.
- Usually fine with a familiar dog; strange dogs need managing.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Even-tempered · Protective · Confident · Slow to mature
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Bloat (GDV)
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Hovawart good with kids?
Generally yes. Hovawarts are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Hovawart good with cats?
Usually yes. Hovawarts typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Hovawart need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Hovawart handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Hovawart's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.