Breeding suitability guide — Hovawart
For breeders: which tests, which thresholds, which mating rules apply
1. Mandatory tests for parents
Rassezuchtverein für Hovawart-Hunde e.V. (RZV) / Rassezuchtverein für Hovawart-Hunde e.V. requires these tests for breeding approval — they must be on file for every breeding animal.
| Test / condition | Scoring scheme | Passing result | Inheritance | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wesensbeurteilung | Verhaltenstest | result on file | — | Rassezuchtverein für Hovawart-Hunde e.V. (RZV) |
| Eye conditions (ophthalmological eye exam) (ECVO) | Eye examination | clear | Complex | Rassezuchtverein für Hovawart-Hunde e.V. |
| Hip dysplasia (HD) | X-ray | HD A–B | Polygenic | Rassezuchtverein für Hovawart-Hunde e.V. (RZV) |
2. Mating rules
When one parent has a borderline result, the other parent must meet specific criteria.
We currently have no structured mating rules for this breed. Please consult your club's regulation.
3. Recommended additional tests
Sensible additions for line planning.
| Test / condition | Scoring scheme | Passing result | Inheritance | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heart disease | Physical examination | normal | Complex | AI-Vet |
| Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) | DNA test | clear or carrier | Autosomal recessive | AI-Vet |
| Primary hypothyroidism | — | normal | Complex | AI-Vet |
4. HonestDog verification
- Upload a legible certificate (PDF or photo) per test in the breeder dashboard
- Certificate must show date, examining vet, and FCI/VDH logo
- Certificates older than 36 months are flagged as stale
- We extract the results from each upload using AI and check them for consistency with the dog's profile — the profile tile then shows 'verified'