I have a dog that we were told was a mixed breed but he looks remarkably similar to a Hovawart.  He fits all the standards for the breed I've read and has no faults known to the breed.  How can I know for sure if he really is a Hovawart?  Are there any characteristics that could help determine?  Thanks in advance.
~Ravenna

I would make contact with the Hovawart Club http://www.hovawart.org.uk/.  What a shame their show was only last week and you could have met lots!
Enthusiasts are usually ecited about their dogs and happy to show them to those who are interested.  They would maybe give you an opinion on yours.
The nost important thing is that you love your boy, whether he is or he isn't!! :p

I thought Hovawart litters were as rare as hens teeth, so can't imagine one being sold as a x-breed!

My friend has a hovawart and they are hard to come by and not cheap. I also have seen a dog that was very similar looking but it was a cross between a Setter and somehting else.