The Hovawart is a very old German working dog breed. The name's origin stems from Middle High German (an old form of German); Hova (Hof) means yard or farm and wart (Wachter) means watchman. The Hovawart is the watchman of the yard or farm.
 
They make excellent family dogs as they are totally devoted to their family. However, since they are a working dog breed, they do require a consistent and loving yet strict training and meaningful activity throughout their lives.