Kuvasz: Hungary’s Fearless Guardian That Trusts No One But You

The Kuvasz (pronounced KOO-vahz) was built to stare down wolves, guard kings, and make life-or-death decisions in freezing mountain passes without human help. That’s not ancient history — it’s their personality today, sitting in your lounge room.

This Hungarian giant is one of the most impressive livestock guardian dogs ever developed. Standing up to 76 cm tall and weighing over 50 kg, the Kuvasz is a wall of white fur, dark intelligent eyes, and an unwavering commitment to protecting whatever it considers “its” — whether that’s a flock of sheep, a family of four, or the entire front yard.

They’re also one of the rarest dog breeds you’ll encounter in Australia. Dogs Victoria currently lists zero registered Kuvasz breeders in the country. If you’re serious about owning one, you’re looking at international imports, long waitlists, and a breed that most Australian vets have never treated.

This guide covers the Kuvasz honestly — temperament, real health costs in AUD, grooming realities, training challenges, and whether this magnificent but demanding breed suits Australian conditions and lifestyles.

What You’ll Learn

  • Breed traits & temperament
  • Health concerns to know
  • True cost in Australia
  • Training & exercise needs
  • Is this breed right for you?

Quick Facts: Kuvasz at a Glance

TraitDetails
Breed GroupWorking Group (AKC), FCI Group 1 — Sheepdogs & Cattle Dogs
OriginHungary (ancient roots in Mesopotamia/Central Asia)
SizeLarge to Giant — Males: 71–76 cm, Females: 66–70 cm
WeightMales: 48–62 kg, Females: 37–50 kg
Lifespan10–12 years (some individuals reach 14)
CoatDouble coat — medium-length, wavy to curly outer; soft dense undercoat
ColourWhite only (skin is heavily pigmented slate grey or black underneath)
TemperamentLoyal, protective, independent, intelligent, aloof with strangers
Exercise NeedsHigh — 60–90+ minutes daily plus mental stimulation
SheddingHeavy — year-round moderate with major seasonal blowouts
Good with Kids?Adults: gentle and patient. Puppies: too rambunctious for toddlers
Good with Other Dogs?Can be dominant; early socialisation essential
AKC StatusFully recognised (Working Group) since 1931
Availability in AustraliaVirtually nonexistent — zero current registered breeders
Kuvasz Dog Breed Profile Image

The Kuvasz origin story stretches back further than most breeds can claim. Clay tablets from northern Mesopotamia dating to around 1300 BC reference “ku-assa” — meaning “dog-horse” — describing dogs that guarded horses and riders along trade routes. Whether this is a direct ancestor of the modern Kuvasz or a related type is debated, but the lineage is ancient.

What’s certain is that the Magyar tribes brought Kuvasz-type dogs with them when they settled the Carpathian Basin around 896 AD. A fossilised skeleton from a 9th-century dog discovered at Fenékpuszta near Keszthely was morphologically near-identical to the modern Kuvasz — placing this among the oldest identifiable dog breeds in the world.

The breed’s golden era arrived under King Matthias Corvinus (1458–1490), who kept large numbers of Kuvasz dogs as personal bodyguards. The king famously trusted his dogs more than his courtiers and gifted Kuvasz puppies to visiting dignitaries — including, according to legend, two dogs sent to Vlad Dracula of Wallachia as a wedding present. During this period, the Hungarian Kuvasz also served as a large-game hunting companion, capable of taking on wild boar.

The breed’s darkest chapter came during World War II. Kuvasz dogs were so effective at guarding Hungarian families that German and Soviet soldiers actively hunted and killed them. By the war’s end, fewer than 30 Kuvasz remained in Hungary — some sources suggest as few as 12. The breed was rebuilt from this razor-thin genetic foundation by dedicated breeders, and today’s Kuvasz population is healthy but still relatively small worldwide.

The AKC registered the Kuvasz in 1931. The Kuvasz Club of America was founded in 1966. The FCI accepted the breed standard in 1934, with full recognition confirmed in 1954. In Australia, the first Kuvasz arrived in 1998, with the first Australian-born puppies in late 1999. The breed has never established a significant presence here, and as of recent Dogs Victoria listings, there are currently no registered Kuvasz breeders in Australia.

Kuvasz Dog Breed Temperament Playing

The Kuvasz temperament is built on a foundation of fierce independence. This is a dog that was bred to make life-or-death decisions about predators without waiting for a shepherd’s command. That autonomous thinking made them extraordinary livestock guardians. It also makes them one of the most challenging companion dogs you can own.

A well-socialised Kuvasz is gentle, dignified, and surprisingly affectionate with its family. They’re patient with children in the household — often positioning themselves between kids and perceived threats with calm determination rather than aggression. Their loyalty runs deep; once a Kuvasz considers you part of its “flock,” it will protect you with absolute commitment. Many owners describe a clownish sense of humour that persists well into adulthood, adding unexpected lightness to this serious breed.

Kuvasz personality traits include a stubborn independence that will test even experienced owners. They’re wary of strangers by design — centuries of guarding against wolves and human intruders have wired suspicion into the breed’s DNA. A Kuvasz will assess every visitor to your home and make its own judgement about their intentions. Without thorough socialisation, this wariness can escalate to territorial aggression.

They’re also escape-prone dogs with a strong drive to roam and patrol. Left alone in a yard for extended periods, a bored Kuvasz can become destructive or aggressive. Never chain a Kuvasz — being restrained and isolated triggers their survival instincts and can create serious behavioural problems. These dogs need to feel like part of the family, not a sentry on duty.

Kuvasz Dog Breed Health Vet

The Hungarian Kuvasz is generally a hardy breed, but like all large dogs, they carry some genetic vulnerabilities. Their near-extinction during WWII created a genetic bottleneck that, while largely overcome, means health screening from reputable breeders is non-negotiable.

Prevalence: The Kuvasz is predisposed to hip dysplasia due to its large size. OFA screening is considered essential for all breeding stock. The breed’s post-WWII genetic bottleneck — when fewer than thirty Kuvaszok survived — may have concentrated certain orthopaedic vulnerabilities

Symptoms: Stiffness after rest, reluctance to rise or climb stairs, bunny-hopping gait, decreased activity, lameness in the rear legs, and audible clicking from the hip joint. Symptoms may appear as early as 5–6 months in severe cases or develop gradually through adulthood

Treatment Cost (AUD): $3,000–$7,000+ for surgical intervention including total hip replacement in severe cases; $500–$1,500 per year for conservative management with anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, and physiotherapy

Prevention: Feed a large-breed puppy formula to control growth rate. Maintain a lean body weight throughout life. Avoid excessive running and jumping during the growth phase (first 18 months). Only purchase from breeders who provide OFA or PennHIP hip scores for both parents

Prevalence: Recognised in the Kuvasz as a developmental disorder of the elbow joint. Responsible breeders screen elbows alongside hips as standard practice

Symptoms: Forelimb lameness that worsens after exercise, stiffness in the front legs, reluctance to extend the elbow fully, and swelling around the elbow joint. Often affects both elbows, though one side may be more severe

Treatment Cost (AUD): $2,500–$5,000 per elbow for surgical correction; conservative management with anti-inflammatory medications and controlled exercise may suit milder cases

Prevention: Control growth rate during puppyhood with an appropriate giant-breed puppy diet. Avoid repetitive high-impact exercise on hard surfaces during the first 18 months. Ensure breeding dogs have elbow scores before mating. Keep floors non-slip during the puppy growth phase

Prevalence: The single most dangerous health risk for the Kuvasz. As a large, deep-chested breed weighing 40–52 kg, the Kuvasz is in the highest risk category for GDV. Dogs weighing over 45 kg have an estimated 20% lifetime risk. Without treatment, GDV is fatal within hours

Symptoms: Sudden restlessness, unproductive retching or dry heaving, visibly swollen or distended abdomen, excessive drooling, rapid shallow breathing, pale gums, and collapse. This is a time-critical emergency — if you see these signs, go to the vet immediately

Treatment Cost (AUD): $5,000–$10,000+ for emergency surgery including stabilisation, stomach derotation, and gastropexy. Prophylactic gastropexy performed at desexing costs $1,500–$3,000 and is strongly recommended for this breed

Prevention: Feed two or three smaller meals daily instead of one large meal. Use a slow-feeder bowl. Avoid elevated food bowls. Do not exercise vigorously for at least one hour before and after eating. Discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet — this procedure tacks the stomach to the body wall, reducing recurrence risk from up to 80% to less than 5%

Prevalence: Recognised in the Kuvasz as a developmental joint condition. OCD primarily affects large and giant breed puppies during their rapid growth phase, typically presenting between 4 and 10 months of age. The shoulder joint is most commonly affected

Symptoms: Lameness in one or both front legs, reluctance to bear weight on the affected limb, pain when the shoulder or elbow is flexed or extended, swelling around the affected joint, and worsening lameness after exercise

Treatment Cost (AUD): $2,000–$4,000 for arthroscopic surgery to remove the loose cartilage fragment. Conservative management (rest, anti-inflammatory medication) may be attempted for mild cases but surgical outcomes are generally superior

Prevention: Feed an appropriate large-breed puppy formula that controls calcium and calorie intake to avoid excessively rapid growth. Avoid high-impact exercise during the growth phase. Maintain a lean body condition during puppyhood. OCD has both genetic and nutritional components, so purchasing from health-screened parents reduces risk

Prevalence: Recognised in the Kuvasz breed. Hypothyroidism is one of the more commonly diagnosed endocrine conditions in dogs generally, and large breeds are frequently affected

Symptoms: Weight gain despite normal appetite, lethargy and decreased activity, dry or dull coat, symmetrical hair loss (particularly along the flanks, tail, and trunk), thickened skin, cold intolerance, and in some cases behavioural changes

Treatment Cost (AUD): $300–$600 per year for daily thyroid hormone replacement medication (levothyroxine) and routine blood tests to monitor hormone levels every 6–12 months

Prevention: There is no known way to prevent hypothyroidism, but early detection through routine blood screening allows prompt treatment. Annual thyroid panels are recommended, particularly from middle age onward. Once diagnosed and stabilised on medication, most dogs return to completely normal health and energy levels

Prevalence: Reported in the Kuvasz. PRA is a group of inherited degenerative eye diseases that cause the gradual deterioration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness. DNA testing is available for some forms

Symptoms: Night blindness is typically the first sign — the dog may become hesitant in dim lighting, bump into objects in unfamiliar dark environments, or show reluctance to go outside at night. As the condition progresses, daytime vision also deteriorates. A reflective or “glowing” appearance to the eyes may be noticed

Treatment Cost (AUD): There is no cure for PRA. $200–$500 per year for monitoring through regular veterinary ophthalmologist examinations. Environmental modifications to assist a blind or visually impaired dog are relatively low-cost

Prevention: DNA testing can identify carriers and affected dogs before breeding. Request eye health certifications from breeders. Annual eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist can detect PRA early, allowing owners to prepare and adapt the dog’s environment as vision declines

Prevalence: Environmental and food allergies are reported in the breed. The Kuvasz’s dense white double coat can mask early skin irritation, so owners should watch for behavioural signs of itching

Symptoms: Excessive scratching, licking (particularly paws and belly), face rubbing, red or inflamed skin, recurrent ear infections, hot spots, and hair loss in affected areas. Food allergies may also cause gastrointestinal symptoms

Treatment Cost (AUD): $300–$1,000 per year for management including antihistamines, medicated shampoos, elimination diets, and in severe cases immunotherapy or prescription medications

Prevention: Identify and avoid triggers through elimination diets (for food allergies) or allergy testing (for environmental allergens). Maintain regular flea prevention. Avoid over-bathing — the Kuvasz coat naturally sheds dirt and frequent bathing strips the natural oils that give the coat this self-cleaning property. Feed a high-quality diet and consider omega-3 fatty acid supplements for skin and coat health

Gastric dilatation-volvulus is the single most dangerous health risk for the Kuvasz. Ask your vet about preventative gastropexy — a procedure that tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall during desexing surgery. For a breed this size and chest depth, it’s worth the conversation.

Kuvasz Dog Breed Lifespan Senior

The Kuvasz lifespan ranges from 10 to 12 years, which is typical for a giant breed. Some well-cared-for individuals reach 14. Hill’s Pet notes the lifespan can be as short as 8 years in some cases, reflecting the reality that very large dogs tend to age faster than smaller breeds.

Factors that influence longevity include diet quality (large-breed-specific food is essential to prevent rapid growth in puppies), exercise levels, weight management, and early screening for joint issues. Bloat prevention strategies — feeding multiple smaller meals, avoiding exercise immediately after eating, and considering gastropexy — can also be lifesaving.

Puppy (0–18 months): Kuvasz are slow to mature. Feed large-breed puppy food to control growth rate. Start socialisation immediately and intensively. Avoid high-impact exercise on growing joints.

Adolescent (18 months–3 years): The Kuvasz doesn’t fully mature until age 2–3. Expect boundary-pushing and independence. Continue socialisation and reinforce training. This is when guarding instincts solidify.

Adult (3–7 years): A settled adult Kuvasz is a magnificent companion. Maintain joint supplements, annual hip/elbow checks, and thyroid screening. Monitor weight carefully — they’re “easy keepers” that need less food than you’d expect for their size.

Senior (7+ years): Watch for stiffness, slowing down, and vision changes. Twice-yearly vet visits. Orthopaedic beds become essential. Reduce exercise intensity but maintain regular movement.

Kuvasz Dog Breed Grooming Brushing

Kuvasz shedding is legendary. That brilliant white double coat looks stunning — and it will cover every surface of your home during the twice-yearly blowout. The good news? The coat is surprisingly self-cleaning. Mud dries and brushes off easily, and a well-maintained Kuvasz rarely develops a strong doggy odour. The bad news? You will need a very good vacuum.

Grooming Schedule

TaskFrequencyToolsAustralian Products
BrushingWeekly minimum; daily during coat blowSlicker brush, undercoat rake, pin brushFURminator deShedding Tool (Large), Kazoo Slicker Brush
BathingEvery 4–6 weeks (don’t overbath)Dog shampoo for double coatsFidos Oatmeal Shampoo, PAW Sensitive Skin
Nail TrimmingEvery 2–4 weeksHeavy-duty guillotine or DremelMillers Forge large-dog clippers
Teeth CleaningDaily ideal, 3x/week minimumLarge-breed toothbrush + pastePetosan Double-Headed Toothbrush
Ear CleaningWeekly — floppy ears trap moistureEar cleaning solution + cotton padsPAW Gentle Ear Cleaner

Never shave a Kuvasz. Their double coat insulates against both cold and heat. Shaving removes UV protection, increases sunburn risk, and can permanently damage coat regrowth. In Australian heat, provide shade, fresh water, and limit exercise to cooler hours instead.

Kuvasz Dog Breed Exercise Running

Despite their size, Kuvasz dogs aren’t hyperactive. They’re working dogs built for endurance, not sprinting — think long patrol loops, not fetch sessions. That said, they absolutely need daily exercise: 60–90 minutes minimum, split between structured walks and time in a large, securely fenced yard.

The key words: securely fenced. Kuvasz dogs have a strong instinct to expand and patrol their territory. A standard 1.2-metre Australian fence is insufficient. You need at least 1.8 metres, solid (not chain-link they can climb), with no dig-out spots. These dogs are intelligent enough to test every weakness in your fencing.

This is a breed developed for Hungarian winters and high mountain pastures. Australian summers pose a genuine risk. Exercise early in the morning or after sunset. Provide multiple water stations and deep shade. Watch for panting, drooling, and lethargy — signs of heat stress. Indoor access with air conditioning during extreme heat days is essential for a dog wearing a fur coat designed for sub-zero temperatures.

Suitable activities include long walks, hiking, scent work, and free-ranging in secure rural properties. They can excel at carting and weight-pulling. Off-lead dog parks are generally not recommended due to their territorial nature and potential for dog-on-dog conflict.

Kuvasz Dog Breed Training Sit

Training a Kuvasz is less about obedience and more about building a relationship where the dog chooses to cooperate. Harsh corrections will backfire spectacularly — a Kuvasz that feels mistreated can become aggressive or simply shut down and ignore you entirely. Positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience are non-negotiable.

Socialisation & Training Timeline

AgeFocus AreasHonest Difficulty
8–16 weeksIntensive socialisation (people, dogs, environments, sounds). Name recognition, gentle handling, crate training.Critical — this window defines the adult dog.
4–6 monthsBasic commands (sit, down, stay, come). Lead manners. Impulse control. Continued stranger exposure.Hard — independent thinking kicks in early.
6–18 monthsRecall training, threshold manners, territorial behaviour management, guest protocols.Very hard — adolescent Kuvasz test boundaries daily.
18 months–3 yearsAdvanced obedience, reliable indoor manners, ongoing stranger socialisation. Guardian instinct management.Moderate — maturity brings cooperation.
3+ yearsMaintenance training, enrichment, continued socialisation to prevent regression.Manageable — a well-trained adult Kuvasz is remarkably reliable.

A professional trainer experienced with livestock guardian breeds is strongly recommended. Standard obedience classes designed for retrievers and poodles are not calibrated for the Kuvasz mindset. Look for trainers who understand that cooperation, not compliance, is the goal.


Cost of Ownership in Australia

ExpenseEstimated AUD CostNotes
Puppy Purchase (overseas)$3,800–$6,200 AUDUS/European breeders; expect 12–24 month waitlists
Import to Australia$6,000–$12,000+Flights, quarantine, vet paperwork, import agent
Total Acquisition$10,000–$18,000+Realistic total for importing a Kuvasz puppy
First Year Vet Costs$2,000–$3,500Vaccinations, desexing, microchip, gastropexy consult
Annual Vet Costs$600–$1,200Check-ups, parasite prevention, joint supplements
Food (quality large-breed)$1,800–$3,000/yearSurprisingly moderate eaters for their size
Pet Insurance$60–$120/monthHigher premiums for giant breeds; essential
Secure Fencing (upgrade)$3,000–$8,0001.8m+ solid fence, full perimeter
Training (LGD specialist)$800–$3,000Specialist guardian-breed trainer recommended

All up, expect $15,000–$25,000+ in your first year of Kuvasz ownership in Australia, with ongoing annual costs of $3,500–$6,000. The Kuvasz price reflects both the breed’s extreme rarity here and the significant logistics of importing a giant-breed dog.

For anyone searching for Kuvasz breeders in Australia, contact the ANKC, Dogs NSW, or Dogs Victoria for the most current information. The Kuvasz Club of America can also connect you with reputable international breeders who may ship to Australia.

Kuvasz Dog Breed Family Lifestyle

Experienced large-breed owners who’ve successfully managed independent, protective dogs before. Rural or semi-rural property owners with secure fencing and space. Families without very young children. People prepared to invest heavily in socialisation from day one. Those comfortable with a dog that thinks for itself and won’t blindly follow commands.

First-time dog owners, without question. Apartment or small-yard dwellers. Families with toddlers. Anyone who wants an easy, biddable companion. People away from home for long periods — Kuvasz are prone to separation anxiety. Hot-climate residents without air conditioning and shade solutions.

This is the single most common comparison. Both are large white livestock guardian dogs with similar silhouettes. The Kuvasz has a more athletic, leaner build compared to the heavier Great Pyrenees. Kuvasz temperament is more independent and territorial, while Great Pyrenees tend to be slightly more laid-back with strangers. The Kuvasz coat is wavier; the Great Pyrenees coat is straighter and thicker. Great Pyrenees are significantly easier to find in Australia. If you want the guardian temperament but prefer a slightly calmer, more available breed, the Great Pyrenees may be more practical.

For Australian owners, the Kuvasz vs Maremma comparison may be more relevant since Maremma Sheepdogs are actually available here and well-suited to Australian farming conditions. Both are white livestock guardians with similar temperaments. Maremmas are slightly smaller (35–45 kg vs 37–62 kg), more established in Australian agriculture, and have a larger local breeding population. If you need a working livestock guardian in Australia, a Maremma is the more realistic option. If you specifically want a Kuvasz for its unique heritage and temperament, be prepared for the import process.


The Kuvasz is a breed that commands respect. Here’s the honest summary:

1. A guardian like no other. The Kuvasz will protect your family, your property, and your livestock with a quiet, unshakeable courage that few breeds can match. Soldiers literally had to kill them to get past them.

2. Not for casual owners. This breed demands experience, space, secure fencing, consistent training, and a deep understanding that you’re living with an independent thinker, not a follower.

3. Nearly impossible in Australia. With zero registered breeders currently active, owning a Kuvasz in Australia means importing. Consider whether a Maremma or Great Pyrenees might meet your needs before committing to the logistics and cost.

If you’re the right owner, with the right property and the right mindset, a Kuvasz will give you a level of devotion and protection that’s difficult to describe. If you’re not ready for the commitment, respect the breed enough to choose something else.


How do you pronounce Kuvasz?

Kuvasz is pronounced KOO-vahz. The plural in Hungarian is Kuvaszok (KOO-vah-sock). You’ll also see the breed called the Hungarian Kuvasz or Magyar Kuvasz.

Are Kuvasz aggressive?

Kuvasz dogs are not inherently aggressive, but they are powerfully protective. Without proper socialisation, their wariness of strangers can escalate to territorial aggression. A well-socialised Kuvasz is calm, confident, and polite with accepted visitors.

Are Kuvasz good guard dogs?

Exceptional. The Kuvasz was literally bred as a royal bodyguard and livestock guardian for centuries. Their protective instincts are deeply embedded. They’re naturally vigilant, bark to alert, and will physically intervene if they perceive a genuine threat.

Are Kuvasz good family dogs?

For the right family, yes. Adult Kuvasz are patient and gentle with children in the household. However, they need experienced owners, extensive socialisation, and supervision around unfamiliar children. This is not a breed for first-time dog owners.

Do Kuvasz shed a lot?

Yes. Kuvasz shedding is heavy. They shed moderately year-round and blow their entire undercoat twice a year. During coat-blow season, daily brushing is essential. A high-quality undercoat rake and a good vacuum cleaner are mandatory investments.

Are Kuvasz hypoallergenic?

Absolutely not. The Kuvasz has a thick double coat that sheds heavily and produces dander. If you have dog allergies, this is one of the worst breeds you could choose.

What is the difference between a Kuvasz and Great Pyrenees?

Both are large white livestock guardians, but they differ in build, coat, and temperament. The Kuvasz is leaner and more athletic with a wavier coat. The Great Pyrenees is heavier-set with a straighter, thicker coat. Kuvasz tend to be more independent and territorial, while Great Pyrenees are generally calmer with strangers.

Can you get a Kuvasz in Australia?

It’s extremely difficult. Dogs Victoria currently lists zero registered Kuvasz breeders in Australia. Your most realistic path is importing from a reputable breeder in the US, Hungary, or Europe, which involves significant cost ($10,000–18,000+), quarantine, and paperwork.

How big do Kuvasz get?

Kuvasz are large to giant dogs. Males stand 71–76 cm at the shoulder and weigh 48–62 kg. Females are slightly smaller at 66–70 cm and 37–50 kg. They’re slow to mature, often not reaching full size until age 2–3.

Do Kuvasz dogs get along with cats?

It depends on socialisation. A Kuvasz raised with cats from puppyhood can coexist peacefully, as they’ll consider the cat part of their flock to protect. Introducing an adult Kuvasz to cats is riskier. Early exposure is key.

1. American Kennel Club — Kuvasz Dog Breed Information: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/kuvasz/

2. Wikipedia — Kuvasz: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuvasz

3. PetMD — Kuvasz Dog Breed Health and Care: https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/kuvasz

4. Wisdom Panel — Kuvasz Facts: https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-breeds/kuvasz

5. Dogster — Kuvasz Dog Breed Info: https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/kuvasz

6. Hill’s Pet — Kuvasz Dog Breed: https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/kuvasz

7. Dogs Victoria — Kuvasz Breed Information: https://dogsvictoria.org.au/choosing-a-breed/browse-all-breeds/142/Kuvasz/

8. Dogs NSW — Kuvasz Breed Information: https://www.dogsnsw.org.au/Breeds/browse-all-breeds/142/Kuvasz/

9. Burke’s Backyard — Hungarian Kuvasz: https://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/fact-sheets/pets/pet-road-tests/dogs-breeds/hungarian-kuvasz/

10. WebMD — What to Know About a Kuvasz: https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-kuvasz

11. FCI — Kuvasz Breed Standard: https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/KUVASZ-54.html

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