Estrela Mountain Dog vs Hovawart
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Estrela Mountain Dog: Calm0.4
Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Estrela Mountain Dog: N/A
Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Estrela Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Estrela Mountain Dog5/5
Hovawart4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Estrela Mountain Dog3/5
Hovawart4/5
Good with Strangers
Estrela Mountain Dog2/5
Hovawart4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Estrela Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint inflammation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Joint Problems: Mobility issues
Hovawart
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Pros & Cons Comparison
Estrela Mountain Dog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Loyal to family
Weather-resistant coat
Independent nature
Good with livestock
Cons
Requires extensive space
Strong-willed personality
Heavy shedding
Not suitable for apartments
Needs experienced owner
Hovawart
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers
Estrela Mountain Dog Fun Fact
These dogs traditionally wore spiked iron collars called 'carlancas' to protect their necks from wolf attacks.
Hovawart Fun Fact
Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.
Heritage & Purpose
Estrela Mountain Dog
Origin:
Dating back to the Serra da Estrela mountains of Portugal, these dogs served as guardians of sheep flocks against wolves and other predators since the Middle Ages.
Hovawart
Origin:
Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.
Special Considerations
Estrela Mountain Dog
Needs regular brushing during shedding seasons, extensive early socialization, and secure fencing. Guardian instincts require proper management and training.
Hovawart
Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.