Dogs 101 - KOMODOR - Top Dog Facts About the KOMODOR

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The Komondor, sometimes called the Hungarian Sheepdog, is a large breed of livestock guarding dog, known for its unique corded coat. The breed’s ancestors probably came to Hungary in the 12th and 13th centuries with the Cumans, a nomadic tribe from Eastern Europe fleeing the Mongols. In fact, the breed’s name translates to ‘the dog of the Cumans’. These large sheepdogs became very popular in their adopted land because of their resemblance to the Hungarian sheep, which worked as perfect camouflage when being used as guard dogs. The importance of these dogs in Hungary made shepherds prohibit any crossbreeding with other varieties of dogs. During World War II, there are stories of how Germans and Russians had to kill these courageous guard dogs before gaining entry into the Hungarian farms – resulting in the breed reaching extinction level numbers. But, by then enough dogs had been exported out of Hungary for breeders to be able to save the Komondor. The breed was first brought to the US in the early 1930s.

Time for some Ruff Trivia:
- The Komondor was typically used for herding in collaboration with another Hungarian breed. Name this other breed that resembles the Komondor, but is smaller in size and is black in color.
o A: Kuvasz
o B: Ovcharka
o C: Puli
What do you think, give it your best guess in the comments below before we get to the answer! Hang on tight and we’ll get back to this Ruff Trivia Question toward the end of the video.

Height specifications of the breed provide a lower limit and an average. The lower height limit for an adult male Komondor is 27.5 inches and average is 31.5 inches. The lower limit for the female is 25.5 inches, with average being 27.5 inches. The Komondor is a large, muscular dog, with long legs. The most notable feature is its heavy, corded coat, which gives the appearance of dreadlocks or a mop. The coat color is always white, but a dog working outdoors and not cleaned regularly can turn off-white. The puppy is born with a soft and fluffy coat, and the cords take around two years to fully develop. The length continues to increase, as the dog grows older. The dog has a broad head, with the muzzle being slightly shorter than half the length of the head. The lips and nose are black.

Grooming: The Komondor does shed hair when a pup, but as the cords are formed, the shedding becomes minimal. Most owners opt for professional help or training in order to care for the coat. An occasional bath helps to keep the dog clean, but a Komondor can take up to two and a half days to dry properly. Some owners choose to clip the coat, but it is generally not advised. Other grooming steps like trimming of nails, cleaning of ears and brushing of teeth have to be regular.

Environment: True to its livestock guarding genes, the Komondor is known to be a calm and quiet dog, affectionate and protective when it comes to its family and home. It gets along well with all members of the family, including children and other pets. It can get aggressive with other dogs, and is not naturally friendly with strangers. This, along with its strength and courage, makes it an excellent guard dog.

Training: Given the Komondor’s size, strength and natural temperament, early obedience and socialization training is highly advisable. Like most sheepdogs, it can be stubborn and independent-minded, requiring experience and patience from the trainer. It is an active breed, and requires a long walk or a good game in the yard. It is generally not recommended for apartment living.

Health: The life expectancy of the breed is 10 to 12 years. Skin infection because of dirt being trapped under its cords is a common problem, which can be prevented with proper cleaning. It is a largely healthy breed, with hip dysplasia and eye diseases being seen in some dogs.

A dog of unique appearance, the Komondor is known for its power and pluck. Devoted to its family, it asks for the same care from its owner for its grooming and training.

Find out if the Komondor would be a good addition to your home. Now you can visit Brooklyn’s Corner.com to take our quiz and find out which dog would be the best match for you.

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