Background
The Komondor was brought to Hungary by Cumans (Turkish speaking nomads), during the 12th century. The name “Komondor” derives from Koman-dor meaning “Cuman dog.” The breed was used as a flock-guarding dog. Normally he would guard cattle. His job wasn’t to herd, it was only to protect and guard them from thieves and predators.
World War II and the Cold War put an end to importing the breed from Hungary, thus the breed suffered and dwindled to the point of near extinction; however, breeders from the United States reconnected with Hungary in 1962 and were able to bring the breed back to life.
The Komondor was recognized in 1937 by the American Kennel Club.
Sizing up
- Weight: 80 to 100 lbs.
- Height: 25 to 30 inches
- Coat: Heavy, matted, and corded
- Color: White
- Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years
What’s the Komondor like?
The Komondor is one of the largest breeds of dog. He is very muscular and was built for livestock guarding so he is very calm and extremely protective of his family, especially children who he is very gentle with. Some downside accompanies his guard-like tendencies: he can be wary of strangers, but early training will help with this. The Komondor will take well to training if started between 4 and 8 months; praising helps immensely.
The Komondor is without a doubt a great guard dog but training is a must to avoid having him chasing after people he doesn’t know while he’s trying to protect the family. He’s very independent and makes his own decisions so a puppy kindergarten class is highly recommended. Be sure he knows who the alpha dog in your house is.
The coat of a Komondor is 20 to 27 inches long, which gives him the heaviest fur in the canine world and resembles dreadlocks or a mop. As a puppy the coat, if you can believe it, is actually quite fluffy and soft. As he matures the outer coat begins to form tassels or cords which take about 2 years to fully form. Because of the length and density some help is required in separating the cords. You can make it a part of the grooming process.
Health
The Komondor is generally a healthy breed but be on the lookout for any of the following:
- Hip dysplasia
- Entropion
- Juvenile cataracts
- Gastric torsion
Takeaway Points
- The Komondor’s coat requires extra handling so it doesn’t get too matted or messy.
- The Komondor should start socializing early in order to avoid aggression towards strangers.
- The Komondor is a very large breed, so he is not always ideal for a city life.
- The Komondor likes to be active. If left alone with nothing to do he could become destructive.