And now for something completely different. For a few days I was away for a special kind of reunion. From my presentation page you might already know that I am a nut when it comes to great dogs, especially from the one breed called kuvasz [koov-ahs, koo-vahs]. Guess what, I even have a kuvasz stretched out right now in front of the door, on the porch. So, the reunion I was attending is an annual meeting of the kuvasz breeders and fanciers in Hungary. A rare occasion to meet special people, all in love with this outstanding dog. For those of you who haven’t heard of it, the kuvasz is an ancient Hungarian breed, a very special kind of guard dog with an amazing history of thousands of years. Not many breeds are still carrying that kind of natural force in their genes. Unfortunately the kuvasz breed is now affected by modern lifestyle plagues, being in danger of loosing its purpose, thus its millenary inheritance. Being part of the effervescence around helping the kuvasz regain its rightful place is a significant experience to me for many reasons.

Mirroring the qualm of national consciousness

So far I haven’t seen a better frame that mirrors the actual qualm of the Hungarian national consciousness. The kuvasz, all together with the other nine Hungarian dog breeds, is by law declared National Treasure in Hungary. Still, right now is in trouble, some say close to extinction. The immense dichotomies that have always marked the characteristics of the Hungarian soul are very much present even now in the daily lives of Hungarians. As a natural consequence, this is clearly mirrored in so many aspects, the whole being reflected in its parts. One part of the whole being the fate of the kuvasz breed.

The fanciers and breeders suffer from getting biased in the great duality present even in political influences. The dichotomy is present in many forms, ex. in the form of nationalism vs internationalism. Some say that it is time to bring into the foreground our traditions, thus emphasizing the kuvasz from the perspective of its historical inheritance, being a living treasure. Others say that it is more important to emphasize its utility, usefulness and get in sync with modern times, “get real”. Both perspectives are serious arguments to preserve the breed. The kuvasz itself carries both perspectives, carries the dichotomy, like a true symbol of the Hungarian soul.

Benefits of frustration?!

The tension created by the almost paradoxically different views is seen right now as unhealthy by most of those involved. Understandable to some degree as it generates many frustrations. But a tension can be also seen as tonic, it gives tonicity to the invisible muscles of a group, it keeps the whole thing in shape.

What I have also found to be captivating, is the nature of reactions generated by both poles. The realists are acting in obviously pragmatic terms, returning as often as possible to the ways in improving the kuvasz in its physical qualities (height of whiters, form of head, coat, healthy nervous system etc.). Also acting neutral and often prudish when it comes to more symbolic expressions related to the Hungarian nationalism. Unfortunately the very term nationalism got a pejorative connotation, patriotism being preferred instead. Patriotism being more international, more widely used and accepted. I suspect here some conformism too. The other pole seems romantic and idealist. Mostly acting with intense emotions. And also in unexpected moments, provoking unexpected reactions. There are sometimes some offences taken here, which leads to isolationism.

By all means, this source of tension I sense to be the greatest in this milieu. I personally consider it to be a good influence at its core. It brings in energy to keep the work alive. It pours oil on fire, but just imagine how boring it all would be if everyone would agree on everything.

It is time to get yourself a real dog.

Now that you are reading this – for what I am thankful, – consider a final advice. If you don’t have a dog now – although I know that you have always wanted to have one – I sincerely recommend you to get yourself a kuvasz. The kuvasz is not a lapdog. The kuvasz is a real dog. It has all the ideal characteristics that one should look for in a dog: majestic and impressive in outward appearance, well-shaped, but all the more very intelligent, protective and courageous, strong and harsh if needed, but gentle, loving unconditionally, always ready to even give his life for the beloved ones.

On the photo: Kardosparti Dorisz

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