The Hovawart is a very old German breed who’s history stretches back at least as far as the 13th century. Early breeding standards would sometimes lead to other breeds being mixed in, like German Shepherds and Leonbergers. However, as the breed came into the modern era, the selection of breeding stock became carefully chosen, to help ensure that the breed remain as true as possible to their origins. After the medieval period these dogs began to lose some of their popularity, but by the turn of the 20th century efforts were being made by some fanciers to restore the Breed. Their work paid off, and in 1922 first litter of Hovawarts was registered with the German Breed Registry, and the German Kennel Club would go on to recognize the breed in 1937. The Second World War would also take a heavy toll on the breed, drastically reducing their numbers again. Thankfully, a few managed to survive and were found by fans of the breed after the war and used to rebuild the breed once again. The Hovawart was recognized by the German Kennel Club in 1964, helping to bolster the breeds popularity both at home and abroad. Though they are not very numerous, these dogs can still be found in loving homes around the world.