How to Understand the Komondor

The Komondor also known as the Hungarian Komondor and the Hungarian Sheepdog has a distinctive look that has everyone falling in love with them at first sights. Their long corded coat is one that attracts attention, which makes them look like a cuddly toy; however, their size does just the opposite.

The Komondor is actually a descendant of the Tibetan dogs or possibly, from the Cumans, which were brought to Hungary to guard flocks of sheep.

Height and Weight

The male Komondor will stand at 27 ½ inches from the withers and weigh between 100 to 125 pounds. Females are 25 ½ inches tall and weigh around 80 to 100 pounds.

Colors and Coat

As a puppy, the Komondor will have a soft furry coat, but as he grows, his fur will begin to create cords short at first and then falling to the ground with growth. The Komondor does have a soft woolly undercoat that resembles his puppy fur. The corded fur will cover his body including his head and legs.

The color of the coat is white with a small amount of cream or buff while they are puppies. A full-grown Komondor will have a white coat.

Temperament and Living Environment

The Komondor is a serious minded breed trained to guard the flock, which can and does include his family. He will be a bit reserved with strangers and is very territorial conscience. Can be a great family dog if trained properly. He is overly protective of his property and this will include anything on the property including children, the car, or any other object or person.

The Komondor can live very well in an apartment as long as he receives enough exercise, however, he would prefer to live in the country with plenty of room to roam. The can live in any type of climate and even outdoors without any problems.

One thing to remember, the Komondor’s puppy personality is with him until he reaches age three.

Training

The Komondor does need training and it should begin when he is 4 to 8 months of age. A Komondor that is not socialized will not do well with people, often becoming aggressive. If children are in the family, the Komondor should be trained to be live harmoniously with small children. The Komondor is strong and has been known to kill bears to protect his family. The training should be consistent and upbeat. Do not train with a mean or hateful attitude.

Grooming

Never brush or comb the Komondor’s coat. This breed does need regular bathing and the coat will take a very long time to dry. Due to the long corded coat, the skin should be checked regularly for parasites, which can hide beneath the coat. The ears should also be cleaned regularly.

Diet and Exercise

You should feed your adult Komondor three cups of high quality dog food per day, given in three different meals. Do not overfeed or provide your dog with too many supplements.

The Komondor is a working breed and he needs exercise. Remember, he originally guarded flocks and will enjoy a brisk long walk daily. The Komondor is truly a bit on the lazy side and can sleep for many hours so you need to get up and active.

Health issues and Life Expectancy

The Komondor is prone to bloat, skin problems, hip dysplasia, entropion, ear infections, and parasites. Life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.