Best known for their exceptional livestock guarding abilities, the courageous and noble Kuvasz originally comes from Tibet but was developed in Hungary to be a guardian and companion to nobles. For several centuries they were owned solely by royalty in Hungary and other European empires until they eventually became available to the lower class, who found them to be apt herders and protectors of livestock. These large, agile working dogs are appreciated for their ability to work quite autonomously and to cover long distances over harsh terrain for extended periods of time. As family dogs, they are loyal and protective but tend to be reserved and polite around strangers. They require daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy and their double coats benefit from frequent brushing and occasional bathing.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health, and care requirements. They also work to assure that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed become members of the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission. The nation’s top breed experts are members of the parent club.
The national parent breed club is the first and best place to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
