Slovensky Cuvac

The breed is an animal of imposing stature. It has a large head, half of which is taken up by the nasal canal. It has strong jaws, with a scissors bite. The oval-shaped eyes are dark and lively. The ears are long and hanging while carried on the sides of the head. The tail is thickly furred, and it hangs down when the dog is at rest. The coat is completely white, and the hair can be as much as 4 inches (10 cm) long. The height for males can be as much as 28 inches (70 cm), while females at the most are 26 inches (65 cm) in height. The weight for males ranges 77 - 99 pounds and the weight for females is 66 - 88 pounds.

The dog is known for its hardy constitution, sturdy frame and shaggy white coat. Its frame is massive, and his temperament is naturally lively, watchful, undaunted and alert. These dogs thrive best in an environment of a large family, children and livestock to care for. Farms and ranches make the best homes. These dogs are natural guard dogs. They are gentle and loyal with their family and possessions.

The Slovac Cuvac is well documented as far back as the 17th century. As wolves slowly disappeared from the European mountains and modern herding practices came about, the Cuvac almost became extinct. A man by the name of Dr. Antonin Hruza of the Brno School of Veterinary Medicine saved the breed with his successful breeding program after World War II. A written standard was established and approved in 1964, and the breed was recognized internationally in 1969. The Slovensky is similar to the Kuvasz, however the Kuvasz is a slightly larger breed. It is a popular companion in Central Europe, but is still relatively quite rare. The breed’s name is spelled Cuvac in Czechoslovakian, but the English and German spelling, Tchouvatch, reflects the pronunciation (chew-votch). Some of its talents are guarding flocks against wolves and other predators, hunting big game, border patrol and search and rescue.