The Hovawart is a powerful, medium-sized, slightly elongated, long-haired working dog.
Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 10–14 yr
Height: 22–27 in
Weight: 55–88 lb
Care
Most of the year, occasional brushing is enough to keep the Hovawart’s coat in good shape. More frequent brushing during periods of seasonal shedding will keep the dog’s coats free of loose hair.
The Hovawart’s nails grow fast. Trim them regularly to keep them from cracking or splitting. Overgrown nails can lead to pain or trouble walking or running.
Long ears may make Hovawarts more susceptible to ear infections. Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections from developing.
Finally, maintaining good dental hygiene is essential for the overall long-term health of all dogs. In addition to scheduling professional dental cleanings, aim to establish an at-home dental care routine that includes regular teeth brushing.
To keep your Hovawart at a healthy weight, monitor their food intake carefully. It’s a good idea to use a measuring cup when portioning out their meals to avoid accidental overfeeding. And don’t forget to count calories from treats in their daily totals. As a guideline, treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s calories.
Always visit a professional veterinarian if you believe your dog may have health issues.