Kuvasz

The Kuvasz sheds a lot (pretty much 24/7), but they typically don’t require professional grooming, as their needs can easily be handled by their pet parents.

The Kuvasz sheds the most during the spring and fall, as they have a very heavy double coat. The silver lining, though, is that they have little-to-no dog odor. Plan on brushing your pup at least once a week. Use a metal pin brush, a slicker brush and a rake to remove any tangles, give the coat a healthy shine and remove the dead hair. Because Kuvaszok have such thick coats, it’s a good idea to trim the fur around their eyes and toes. (So they can see and get a good grip when they’re walking and running.)

You’ll also need to do another type of brushing regularly: toothbrushing. Brush your dog’s teeth daily. It’s best to start when they’re a puppy, so they’ll get used to it faster. Brushing their teeth prevents tooth loss and health problems down the road. And be sure your Kuvasz has an annual professional teeth cleaning by your vet.

Their nails will need a trim once a month, if they’re not worn down from all their activity. You’ll know it’s time for a trim when you hear that familiar clacking on your tile floors. (Get step-by-step instructions on how to cut a dog’s nails here.)

What about baths? Rejoice! Your Kuvasz will only need a bath once every three months, unless they’ve been especially active and need one more frequently.

The Kuvasz is a large-breed dog who is independent and intelligent. This combination will make training a challenge for first-time pet parents; they need a confident, calm and patient leader who understands dogs with this combo of smarts and self-sufficiency.

Like all dogs, a Kuvasz puppy responds well to positive reinforcement. So, focus on the things they do well and redirect their efforts when they do something you don’t want. These dogs don’t like a lot of repetition, so keep the sessions short (10 to 15 minutes) and take a break before either of you gets frustrated. Remember to reward their successes with treats, praise and playtime with special toys.

Because these dogs can be wary of strangers, start socializing your Kuvasz puppy early. Take them on walks and let them get to know new people, dogs and situations in a calm and positive manner. This will help them to be more comfortable in new settings as they get older. Consider attending puppy school; it’s the perfect place for your puppy to learn how to play nicely with other dogs, and they get to mingle with other people. Kuvaszok hit their adolescent phase around 9 months and you might see more undesirable behaviors than usual at that age. It’s important you remain patient and calm and be vigilant during this time—and remember you’ll both work through it.

The Kuvasz typically does well on a high-quality commercial dog food. Be sure to factor in your dog’s age and choose a formula that fits their stage in life (puppy, adult, senior). Consider feeding your Kuvasz puppy a large-breed puppy food. This type of food can help prevent orthopedic issues that can occur with fast-growing puppy bones. And consult with your vet if you have any questions. They can help you nail down a feeding chart to guide you on how much and how often to feed your dog based on their specific needs.

Even though these pups are high-energy dogs, they don’t necessarily need to eat massive amounts of food. Putting on just a few extra pounds can cause orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia. And don’t forget to include treats in your weekly menu—these calories count, too. If your pup needs help losing weight, consult with your vet. They are in the best position to help you put together a plan to help your pup shed the weight and still maintain their nutritional needs.

The Kuvasz has high energy levels and needs quite a bit of activity (about an hour a day). They are happy to exercise themselves in a big, fenced-in yard (that independent streak again!). You may find they’re able to provide themselves plenty of exercise if they’re able to roam a large area—like an acreage—on their own.

These dogs also will enjoy walking with you. However, they were not meant to be walked on leashes in the city (how boring!). They love being active and exploring the outdoors by taking long walks or jogs in the country. An adult Kuvasz is a great hiking companion and is strong enough to carry their own packs. Although they’re not as fond of splashing around in the water, like, say, a Boykin Spaniel is, the Kuvasz can enjoy it and, if introduced to it at a young age, may enjoy it because it’s a great way to cool off.

The Kuvasz dog breed thrives in the country and on farms or in suburban areas with fenced yards where they have plenty of room to exercise. They’re a good fit for active and experienced pet parents, although newbies who understand this independent dog’s unique needs and are dedicated to making training a positive and lifelong experience may do well with this pup.

The Kuvasz dog is generally good with kids, as long as they’re well socialized. All kids in your dog’s life should be taught how to respectfully play with dogs. Kuvaszok should be supervised around other pets—especially if they didn’t grow up with them. And they may be wary around strangers and might try to protect you if they sense something’s amiss. When they know your friends well, they’re more easy-going and accepting. Remember that proper and early socialization goes a long way to helping these pups be well-adjusted members of the family.