Hovawart

Loved by 79% of pet parents

Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family protector and an affectionate companion. Strong instincts make it excellent at both work and play.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

63–70 cm (male)

58–65 cm (female)

WEIGHT

30–40 kg (male)

25–35 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

10–14 years

Hovawart: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Hovawart isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Hovawart's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The Hovawart is known for being loyal, protective, and affectionate with family, while remaining reserved with strangers. They tend to form strong bonds and are often attentive companions.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Loyal and affectionate with family, reserved with strangers

Intelligence

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level

Active breed requiring regular daily exercise

Playfulness

Enjoys games but not overly boisterous

Adaptability

Adjusts moderately to new situations and environments

Strengths

Loyal and devoted to family
Strong natural guarding instincts
Good endurance for outdoor activities
Intelligent and quick to learn commands
Generally healthy with few breed-specific issues

Challenges

Needs extensive socialization from puppyhood
High energy requires daily vigorous exercise
May become stubborn without consistent training
Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
Can be wary or aloof with strangers

Protect your Hovawart

Hovawart are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.

Insure your pet

Intelligence & exercise needs

Hovawarts are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Learns with consistency

Overall rating

Hovawarts are intelligent and quick learners but can be independent and strong-willed, requiring consistent, positive training methods. Early socialization and firm guidance are important for best results.

Trainable Tasks:

Tracking and scent work

Search and rescue training

Perimeter guarding skills

Advanced obedience training

Livestock herding commands

Agility course navigation

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

90–120 minutes daily

recommended per day

This breed has high energy levels and benefits from daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. Activities like long walks, play, and training sessions help prevent boredom and promote overall well-being.

Recommended Activities:

Long-distance hiking

Canine nosework games

Swimming sessions

Outdoor fetch games

Rally obedience classes

Mental stimulation puzzles

Is this breed right for you?

Hovawarts are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Hovawart would fit well in your home.