Facts & Origin
Profile: Hovawart-German Shepherd Mix (Hovawart and German Shepherd mix).
The Hovawart-German Shepherd Mix is a remarkable combination of intelligence, willingness to work and loyalty. He is excellent for training tasks, protective services, or simply as a loyal family companion. With proper training, clear boundaries and lots of love, this mixed breed will shine in both the working environment and the family.
Origin of the parent breeds
Origin The Hovawart-German Shepherd Mix combines two of Germany's best-known and most versatile working dog breeds. While the Hovawart originally served as a guard and protection dog on farms, the German Shepherd was bred as a herding dog and later used for police and military duties worldwide.




Alternate Name | - |
Origin | Germany |
Life expectancy | 9 - 17 years |
Care requirements | low-maintenance - high-maintenance |
Activity level | high - average |
FCI group | not recognised |
AKC group | not recognised |
KC group | not recognised |
More German Shepherd mixes
More Hovawart mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits
Combining the intelligence and willingness to work of the German Shepherd with the loyalty and alertness of the Hovawart creates a unique character:
- Loyal and Protective: Strong protective instinct and deep bond with family.
- Intelligent and Trainable: Willing to learn with a quick apprehension.
- Willingto Work: Has a natural need to perform tasks and work.
Suitability and attitude
The Hovawart-German Shepherd Mix is a good fit for families, active individuals, or work settings. While he can live in an apartment, this requires regular, intense exercise.
Character
Care and health
Regular brushing of his coat will prevent matting and keep it healthy.
One should watch for common health problems of both breeds, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye diseases. Regular vet visits and preventive exams are recommended .
What does this mixed breed look like?
The combination of these two breeds produces an imposing, well-proportioned dog:
- Coat: Medium to long coat that is dense and weather resistant.
- Colors: A mixture of the colors of both breeds, often black and brown, but also gray, yellow or red.
Fur length | long - medium |
Fur | flat coated - wavy |
Ear shape | Standing Ears - Triangle |
Tail | fanned out - lang |
Anatomy | massive, strong, rugged |
Size ♀ | 55 - 65 cm |
Weight ♀ | 22 - 40 kg |
Size ♂ | 60 - 70 cm |
Weight ♂ | 25 - 40 kg |
Suitable For | - |
Known Diseases
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
FAQ
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They have an average life expectancy of about 10 to 15 years.
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Hovawart-German Shepherd mixes can have many different colors, including black, brown, red, gray and white.
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Yes, because they are very affectionate by nature, these mixed breeds keep a close bond with their owner.
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Depending on the dog's hair structure, a Hovawart-German Shepherd mix requires quite a bit of grooming.