The Breed In Brief
Pronunciation
♦ SLO-ven-skee CHOO-vahtch
Other Names
♦ Tatranský Čuvač, Slovak Cuvac, Slovac Cuvac, Slovakian Chuvach, Liptok
Place of Origin
♦ Slovakia, in the Tatra Mountains; at one time Czechoslovakia
Rarity
♦ A rare breed dog, not well known in the USA
♦ Very few breeders world-wide
♦ The majority of the dogs are found in Slovakia and the Czech Republic,
with some in Germany, Finland, America, Russia, Belgium and France
Use
♦ Loyal Companion
♦ Family pet
♦ Guardian of home & family
♦ Livestock Guardian
♦ Service Dog
♦ Search and Rescue
Physical Description
♦ Large white dog with an impressive appearance
♦ Soft, thick, double coat
♦ Long, fluffy tail
♦ Dark brown, expressive eyes
♦ Black pigmentation on nose, lips, around eyes
♦ Very agile for its weight and size
Coat Color
♦ Only white
Height & Weight
♦ 23 to 28 inches tall; 66-100 lbs.
Life Expectancy
♦ 11 to 13 years; some live much longer
Known Health Problems
♦ No breed specific problems, but does suffer from many of the same diseases
common in many large breeds
♦ Should be checked and x-rayed for hip dysplasia
♦ Bloat is something to be watched for
Behavior/Temperament
♦ Powerful, but calm
♦ Great companion; faithful and courageous
♦ Affectionate with its human family
♦ Wary of strangers
♦ A natural flock guardian; always alert
♦ Defensively protective, not offensively aggressive
♦ Somewhat independent and strong willed
♦ Very intelligent and a bit stubborn
Suitable Living Conditions
♦ A family dog that wants to be part of your life and activities
♦ Not recommended for apartment living; a large yard is preferred
♦ Usually cautious of strangers and other animals that are not part of the family
Needs
♦ Needs a calm, strong willed owner who will be patient but firm
♦ Must be socialized and trained from birth
♦ Needs a healthy diet appropriate for a large breed
Grooming
♦ Coat is almost self-cleaning; rarely needs a bath
♦ Thick, double coat requires brushing to remove undercoat
♦ Seasonal shedding; sheds more in warm climates
Exercise
♦ Needs daily exercise
♦ If given enough space they will run and exercise quite a bit on their own
