The Kuvasz is a livestock guardian dog from Hungary. Like most LGDs, they require a specific type of owner who can provide them with the structure and care that they need. Unlike herding dogs, livestock guardians would work alone (without people) and watch the flock. They took this job seriously, and if not provided a flock will instead watch over the owner or family in the same way. This bold, fearless breed is sensitive to any change in their surroundings and will alert you to anything that seems “off” – even something as innocent as rearranged furniture!
The Kuvasz thrives when given plenty of room, such as living in a rural home with a big yard. The home should have a secure, 6 foot fence around the perimeter. Most do not make good apartment dogs because they are far to concerned with the constant barrage of people moving outside the building, and can become nuisance barkers with frustration issues. Neither do they make good pets for those who work all day. Remember, they need something to watch over and if they don’t have a flock, you are that flock! With no one at home, they can develop anxiety and become destructive.
These always-white dogs have a lot of coat to keep brushed out and free from knots – and yes, they do shed! Despite this, however, their coat tends to repel dirt and they don’t require frequent baths unless being shown. It’s no surprise with their thick coats that these dogs love cold weather. They can live in warmer climates although their coat might not grow as long or thick. In general, the Kuvasz is a hardy and healthy breed, often living from 10-12 years on average with some living longer. Hip dysplasia, thyroid disorder and an eye condition called PRA are the health conditions most often seen – so make sure the breeder does health tests.
Despite their independent nature (actually, because of it) they must be socialized from an early age and given obedience training throughout their lives. As they can be slow to mature and even stubborn, an owner must be patient with the process. They do best with lots of praise and treats combined with fair discipline. Because long training sessions can bore them, they do better with plenty of short, consistent sessions throughout the day. Although not often seen in the obedience ring, the Kuvasz can still compete and do well in obedience as well as agility, carting, and other sports! 
The Kuvasz makes an excellent companion for children, provided that they are raised with kids. As with the rest of the family, they can be incredibly gentle and sweet to kids although not overly demonstrative. They may have a harder time accepting kids if they never met one in puppyhood. They may also have a harder time with unfamiliar children that come to the house (they tend to be wary of any strangers entering their property). Supervision is always recommended, as well as teaching the kids the proper way to interact with dogs. This breed also may have a hard time being friendly with strange dogs.
The Kuvasz is not the best breed for a first-time dog owner. They require someone experienced in handling dominant breeds. Although they are intensely loyal, they are also fiercely protective which can result in a dog becoming dangerous in the wrong hands. Furthermore, they do not have the easygoing, willing-to-please attitude that many new owners expect from a dog. They are very independent and strong-willed, making them more difficult to train than a sporting or herding breed. Finally, their giant size and incredible strength makes them more dog than many people are able to handle!
While not incredibly active indoors, they still tend to have more energy than other breeds of their size. After all, they were bred to patrol large outdoor areas throughout the day – a trait which required a lot of stamina. The Kuvasz definitely requires daily exercise to keep him healthy and happy. Walks are good although jogging and hiking are even better! The amount of time he will need to spend exercising is another good reason to socialize him early – he will probably meet many strangers when out in public and a well-socialized Kuvasz should be reserved but never aggressive or timid. Socialization will not curb his natural guarding ability, but it will prevent him from becoming a liability.
