Hovawarts are hardy dogs, insured to all weather, intrepid, watchful, agile, not nervous, affectionate, intelligent and naturally obedient they retain their lively good natured puppyhood until they are at least two years old. They have quick and enquiring minds and need the minimum of a garden to keep them occupied. A lot of mental exercise is recommended and socialisation in puppyhood is essential. It’s a great watchdog and protector, but also a restless playmate and friend of a family. Hovawart is a big, strong and fast dog with good breed qualities. It’s an intelligent family dog, which is fond of every family member and shows respect for pets. It suites well for families with kids, if the kids don’t tease the dog. Hovawart’s are independent and could get dominant, hence it needs training. It can be used as trace dog, rescue dog, guardian and for defensive purposes. He rarely barks, but when he does it is loud and deep! The Breed Standard describes them as "Versatile, companion and working dog. Adaptable, devoted, self-confident, agile and resilient." The Hovawart is a calm and even-tempered breed and is extremely gentle and affectionate. Traditionally bred for stability of temperament he is a kindly, docile dog but retains the alertness, self-confidence, and protective instincts of his forebears. He will take his guarding duties seriously and his hard-wired instinct to protect the home means that he is less likely than many other breeds to hunt and roam. His love of human company means that he is not a dog suited to life in a kennel with little interaction with his people. A Hovawart wants to be by your side and it is not difficult to include him, as a real part of the family as the breed, for all its liveliness and love of exercise, is a remarkably quiet and calm housedog.