Komondor

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: Hungary

Group: Guard dog

Height: males 27 1/2 in. & up; females 25 1/2 in. & up

Weight: males 100-125 lbs., females 80-100 lbs.

Life span: 10-12 yrs.

Trainability: moderate

Good with children: not recommended for young children

Good with other pets: unless socialized very early, not good with other dogs

What is the origin of the Komondor?

It is believed a Turkish nomadic people brought the Komondor to Hungary when they settled there in the 12th and 13th centuries. The Komondor’s most outstanding feature is its coat, which looks like dreadlocks all over its body. The coat offers camouflage against predators when guarding sheep. It also provides excellent protection against hot and cold weather, but now very comfortable when wet.

What does the Komondor look like?

The Komondor is a large, muscular dog, minimum height for males is 27 1/2 inches and up and for females, 25 1/2 inches and up. Weight is 100-125 for males, 80-100 lbs. for females. Eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown. Long ears are triangular in shape with rounded tips and hanging. The nose is black. The coat of the Komondor is the attention-getter. The adults coat is heavy and falls in tassel-like cords all over. Coat color is always white although puppies can be buff or cream, changing to white at maturity. The cords should be separated every 3-4 weeks. Don’t comb or brush, but check the skin regularly for parasites. After bathing the coat can take up to 2 days to dry. If the dog will tolerate it, a hair dryer may be used. The Komondor’s coat is the heaviest of all dogs, weighing about 15 lbs.

What is the temperament of the Komondor?

Komondors are dignified, very strong and courageous. They must have early obedience training with a strong, not harsh hand. The Komondor is easily bored and can be stubborn. The trainer has to come up with different ways of presenting a direction as they don’t like repetition. The Komondor needs very early socialization continuing through its life. They are wary of strangers and control should be exerted around them. They are independent thinkers and as guardians, are intolerant of intruders. Lots of vigorous exercise is required to avoid destructive behavior. The Komondor is very large and strong and is not a suitable pet for young children. While any dog can be made to live in an apartment, the Komondor does best with lots of room to run. Because the coat is weather-resistant, they can live outdoors.

What is the Komondor used for?

The Komondor is a very strong flock guardian and will defend its charges against any predator, large or small. They are still used for guarding flocks. Breeders have bred some of the fierceness out and while still very protective of home and family, they have become good companions with the right people.

Possible Health Issues

Hip dysplasia, eye problems such entropion and juvenile cataracts, bloat/gastric torsion.