Description

The Komondor is a massive dog with a proud gait. Its body is totally covered with an extraordinary felted and corded coat, which is 8 to 11 inches (20-27cm.) long, and always white. This corded white coat helps the dog blend in well with sheep and also helps protect them from beasts of prey that it might be called upon to fight in his role as flock guardian. The outer coat fuses with the undercoat to form felt that hangs in long cords. It can take up to two years for the cords to form completely and 5 years to reach the desired length. The head and muzzle are massive and rather short. Its eyes are dark brown and the U-shaped ears hang down to blend with the rest of the coat. It has a large head and generally massive bone structure, a hanging tail, and a very strong scissors bite.

Origin

The Komondor is descended from Tibetan dogs. Some think the Komondor was brought to Hungary a thousand years ago by nomadic Magyars to guard flocks of sheep. However, newer studies show they came from the Cumans. The name, "Komondor", came from the name, Koman-dor, meaning, dog of the Cumans. Komondor remains have been found in Cuman grave sites. The earliest written reference is from the 16th century. It spread throughout the rest of the world beginning in 1920 when the breed began to be presented in dog shows. The Komondor lives for many months outdoors in all kinds of weather, protecting his master's flocks. In the United States the Komondor is primarily a home guard and companion, and livestock guard dog.

Temperament

The Komondor is serious, confident, alert and commanding. It can be very reserved with strangers and is very territorial and highly protective of his family, house, car, and livestock. Implacable against wolves and bears that would attack the flock with which it is entrusted. In a few minutes the Komondor can get the better of even the strongest enemy. It can be fiercely protective and even aggressive, especially with strange dogs, but also with people. This breed must be thoroughly socialized with people and other dogs at an early age. They need complete and firm obedience training by an experienced owner, as he can be very willful. Smart, but easily bored, loyal to and respectful of his master, but fierce against threats to his charges. Komondors can be good family dogs if they are socialized as a young puppy, trained thoroughly, and raised with children from the start, but they are not recommended for most families.

Height

Height: 25.5 inches (65cm.) and upward.

Weight

Weight: Dogs up to 125 pounds (59kg.) Bitches 10 0.000000e+00ss.

Known Health Problems

They are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat and skin problems.

Conditions for Living

This dog does best in a clean country environment where he can receive extensive daily exercise, but it will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They do well in most climates, for the Komondor lives for many months outdoors in all kinds of weather.

Exercise Requirments

It is possible to keep this breed in an urban environment although the country is more to its liking. If they are not actively working as a This dog can be extremely lazy and will sleep and rest for hours upon hours.

Life Expectancy

About 10-12 years.

Grooming

Their hair must never be brushed or combed. It is divided into cords and trimmed. Its coat needs a lot of bathing and takes a long time to dry. It sheds very little if any.

Group

Flock Guard, AKC Working