Hovawart

Hovawarts are large working dogs with German origins. Their name loosely translates to “yard watcher,” and they were originally bred as livestock herders and guardians on farms, according to the Hovawart Club of North America (HCNA).

As an intelligent and active breed, Hovawarts often participate in search and rescue organizations, therapy dog activities, and service dog training. They’re recognizable by their long black-and-tan coat and floppy ears. They can also have blonde fur, which makes them look like Golden Retrievers. 

Hovawart dogs stand 23–28 inches tall and weigh 65–90 pounds.

Caring for a Hovawart

Because of their strong-willed personalities, the HCNA does not recommend Hovawarts as a breed for first-time dog parents, as they require a significant amount of time and attention. But those who do have the time—and the patience—to dedicate to this working dog will be rewarded with a loving and loyal companion.

Hovawarts are smart dogs who need lots of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy and healthy. It’s not enough to let this breed into the backyard alone—a Hovawart dog needs their person engaged with them, whether that’s on a hike or with frequent obedience training sessions.

Hovawart Health Issues

The average Hovawart lifespan is 10–14 years, and they tend to be a healthy dog breed. However, they can be predisposed to some common health issues.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia, a common concern among large dog breeds, is when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, resulting in a loose joint. This can be influenced by growth rate, hormones, diet, and/or exercise.

Hip dysplasia can cause pain, limping, and difficulty standing. When left untreated, the condition leads to arthritis in dogs.

According to the breed club, the rate of hip dysplasia in Hovawarts is “exceptionally low,” though still possible. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is important prevention.

Many vets recommend low-intensity exercise, omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil), and/or joint supplements for dogs diagnosed with hip dysplasia. In severe cases, your vet might need to perform surgery to correct the hip dysplasia.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder that happens when the thyroid gland loses its ability to produce thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as:

• Unexplained weight gain

• Decreased energy level

• Recurring ear and skin infections

• Thinning fur

• Dry, scaly skin

This condition can be managed with lifelong medication. 

Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

Gastric dilatation-volvulus is a life-threatening form of bloat in dogs, where the pup’s stomach inflates and twists. This cuts off vital blood flow to and from the stomach and spleen. It’s more common in large dogs with deep chests, such as the Hovawart breed.

GDV is a medical emergency, and an affected dog must receive veterinary care immediately. Signs of GDV include:

• Retching without producing vomit

• Distended abdomen

• Pacing

• Excessive drooling

A preventative procedure called a gastropexy is sometimes done when a dog is spayed or neutered. During this surgery, the dog’s stomach is secured to the abdomen wall to prevent future twisting. Ask your vet if your Hovawart is a good candidate for a gastropexy.

What To Feed a Hovawart

Partner with your veterinarian to develop a feeding plan that’s nutritionally complete and balanced for your pup’s age, size, and health history. 

In general, Hovawart puppies need to eat a puppy food made specifically for large breeds to promote healthy growth before switching to an adult dog food formula. Ask your vet for specific food recommendations and how often you need to feed your dog.

Remember: All food needs to meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

How To Feed a Hovawart

To reduce the odds of bloat and GDV, take some precautions when feeding your dog:

• Restrict intense exercise for an hour before or after your Hovawart eats.

• Feed your dog from slow feeders, puzzle toys, or snuffle mats to stop them from eating too quickly and bloating.

How Much Should You Feed a Hovawart?

How much to feed your dog depends on your Hovawart’s size, metabolism, health, and lifestyle. The best way to know you’re feeding your dog the right amount is to talk with your veterinarian and consult the feeding guide labels on your chosen dog food.

Nutritional Tips for Hovawarts

Healthy Hovawarts eating an AAFCO-compliant food receive a complete and balanced diet. So in most cases, added vitamins and minerals are unnecessary.

But if your Hovawart has a certain medical condition, your vet may recommend dog-formulated supplements, such as fish oil or joint supplements.

Behavior and Training Tips for Hovawarts

Hovawart Personality and Temperament

The HCNA describes Hovawarts as alert, faithful, trustworthy, extremely intelligent, fun loving, and strong-willed. They like to have a job to do—or else they will “use their creative nature to find one.” This makes exercising your Hovawart for at least two hours every day an important part of their care.

Every dog is an individual with their own personality. But you can typically expect a Hovawart to be friendly with those they know and a bit guarded around strangers. When properly socialized, they can be good with children and with other dogs.

Because of their large size, children and smaller pets should especially be supervised around Hovawarts, as they might get knocked down unintentionally during play. 

Hovawart Behavior

Hovawarts aren’t known to be big barkers, but they will let out a resounding bark if they see something they think is out of the ordinary. They need a lot of mental stimulation (the hallmark of any working breed) or they might develop unwanted behaviors, like excessive barking.

Hovawart Training

Begin training your Hovawart puppy as soon as you bring them home. Follow positive reinforcement training methods, using treats and other rewards to praise your dog for good behavior.

Socializing your puppy also needs to happen early and often. This helps your Hovawart grow into a confident dog who is comfortable in new situations.

Fun Activities for Hovawarts

• Agility

• Swimming

• Obedience trials

• Hiking

• Tracking

• Nose work

Hovawart Grooming Guide

Hovawarts require less grooming than many other dog breeds, but grooming is still necessary—and an important part of caring for this breed.

Skin Care

Hovawarts typically don’t require special skin care. However, if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, it’s a good idea to regularly check their skin for ticks. Your dog should also be kept on monthly flea and tick preventatives.

Contact your vet if you notice changes in your dog’s skin or if your Hovawart seems itchier than usual. These can be signs of a skin condition that needs medical treatment.

Coat Care

Hovawarts have a long, wavy coat of fur that sheds moderately and is prone to matting. Brush their coat at least once a week.

Matting tends to happen behind their ears and on the feathering behind their legs, so pay special attention to these areas. You may need to increase your grooming routine, depending on your specific dog and their lifestyle.

Eye Care

Hovawarts aren’t predisposed to any eye conditions, but it’s still a good idea to regularly check their eyes for signs of problems, like redness and cloudiness. If you notice changes in your pup’s eyes, talk to your veterinarian.

Ear Care

Ear infections are a possibility thanks to the Hovawart’s long, floppy ears. Talk to your veterinarian about how and how often you should clean your dog’s ears. If you notice signs of infection (such as pain, shaking, foul odor, or redness), schedule a vet appointment. Your vet can also recommend the best ear cleaners to use.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Hovawarts are hardy, watchful, and intelligent dogs. They bond closely with their humans and need to be part of a family; they should never be an exclusively outdoor dog. Hovawarts need space to roam, run, and sniff, and they don’t typically do well as an apartment dog unless they get multiple opportunities for outdoor adventures every day.

Because of their working background and willful personality, a Hovawart dog may not be the best choice for a first-time pet parent looking for a companion. But under experienced guidance, Hovawarts can be reliable companions and working pups. Above all, they cherish time spent with their family.