·  Are they good family dogs?

These dogs make very good family pets if you take the necessary time to socialize them as puppies. If small children are a part of the family both the puppy and the child need to be trained to not get rough with each other and respect each other. My dogs love nothing better than to follow me from room to room and they love to be loved on. At the same time, they can be very independent and just watch you move around without acknowledging that they're aware of your every move.

·  Do they shed?

YES!!! All the time altough the worst is twice a year when they "blow" coat. Large hair balls are very common and you'll learn to vacuum several times a week. Lint rollers will be a common sight in the in the house.

·  Do they need a fenced yard?

YES!! The yard will become their territory to protect. If there is no fence they'll define "their yard" for themselves and it may include all your neighbors yards so the neighbors might have a tough time entering their own yards without the permission of your dog. Invisible fences don't work will for this breed. A friend of mine put one in - the dog would sit at the edge of the yard where the collar starts to vibrate to worn them to go no further. She would sit there until the vibrating stopped (which meant the battery was dead) and then walk out of the yard.

·  Are they barkers?

Usually, YES.

·  Do they mind well?

These dogs are very headstrong and are not the pet for the first time dog owner. They want to be the Alpha in the family and it takes a firm hand and lots of patience to train them to do something YOUR WAY. Even when trained they will sometimes look at you, take your command under consideration and get back with you as to whether or not they'll comply. Extremely rewarding if you put enough time and energy into training them early.

·  Do they get along with other animals?

If you raise them with other animals or socialize them enough as pups around other animals they will do fine. My five month old pup goes eye to eye with the doves in their cage. She doesn't try to do anything but watch them. She also thinks our housecat is her buddy and the cat will let her know when she's had enough.

·  What is the average life span?

As a working dog out in the fields probably 7-8 years. As a house pet typically 10-12 years.

·  Do they drool?

Usually not. I do have one in my kennel who slobbers all the time where the others are pretty much dry mouth.

·  What are some of the health issues to watch for?

Like all large dogs they are prone to hip dysplasia but good breeders are doing all we can to eliminate it. Never buy a dog from someone who has not "cleared" the parents (and hopefully grandparents) with an x-ray. Elbows are also usually tested to be free from any disorder and some kuvasz develop thyroid conditions which can be effectively treated with medications.