Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
for the dog to be effective, that independence must be carefully channeled by
a fi rm and loving master.
Kuvasz
A Kuvasz (plural: Kuvaszok) has a rough, white coat and dark lips, eyes, skin,
and nails. The males weigh 100 to 130 pounds (45.4 to 59 kg), the females
90 to 110 pounds (40.8 to 49.9 kg). Natives
of Hungary, many Kuvaszok were killed there
during World War II, sadly depleting the
original stock.
The Kuvasz is independent and not eas-
ily obedience trained — “no” must be strictly
enforced. It is very protective of its own prop-
erty. Once they learn the boundaries, these
dogs protect them fi ercely. The females seem
more alert, whereas the males are more apt to
kill predators. They are able and agile runners
and catch or corner a predator easily. While
capable of functioning without supervision
(after proper training), this breed seems to
have an emotional need for a certain amount
of human company.
Kuvasz
Maremma (Maremmano Abruzzese)
The Maremmas have a sleepy-eyed, relaxed look and a rough coat that is usu-
ally white. These guardians have been used in
the mountains of Italy to guard sheep for cen-
turies. Usually two or three per fl ock are ade-
quate to protect all sides from wolves; these
dogs protect very well as a team. In Italy their
ears are usually docked as pups to prevent a
wolf from getting a grip on the head.
These dogs are independent but obey sin-
gle commands they have been taught as pup-
pies. They interpret commands in terms of
context and duty — loyalty to the fl ock always
prevails. Maremmas are one of the most suc-
cessful breeds used in the Livestock Guard
Maremma
