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History
Brought to Hungary in the 14th Century by the Cumins to guard flocks of sheep, the imposing Komondor is still used for that purpose today. The earliest written reference is from the 16th century. The working Komondor can live for many months of the year outdoors in all kinds of weather, protecting his master's flocks without assistance. In the United States, the Komondor is primarily a home guard and companion, and livestock guard dog.
Description
This unique corded white coat of the massive Komondor helps the dog blend in well with sheep and also helps protect him from beasts of prey that he 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. Though the coat is white, the skin is ideally gray. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a level topline. The head and muzzle are massive and rather short. The eyes are dark brown and the ears are shaped like an elongated triangle, hanging down to blend in with the rest of the coat. The nose is black, and the front plane of the nose is at right angles to the top of the muzzle. A scissors bite is preferred. The bite is quite strong.
Talents
Watchdog, guarding, and police work.
Personality
Serious, confident, alert and commanding. Can be reserved with strangers. Very territorial and highly protective of his family, house, car and livestock. Must be thoroughly socialized with people and other dogs at an early age. Needs 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.
Behavior
Children: Not recommended for children.
Friendliness: Very wary of strangers; highly protective.
Trainability: Somewhat difficult to train.
Independence: Fairly independent.
Dominance: High.
Other Pets: Good with other pets if raised with them from puppyhood.
Combativeness: Tends to be fairly dog-aggressive.
Noise: Average barker.
Notes
Can be fiercely protective and even aggressive, especially with strange dogs but also with people. The unique corded coat needs a lot of bathing and takes a long time to dry. It should not be brushed or combed. This dog does best in a clean country environment where he can receive extensive daily exercise. Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat and skin problems. Buy only from OFA certified stock. Can be a good family dog if socialized as a young puppy, trained thoroughly, and raised with children from the start, but not recommended for most families.
Grooming
Grooming: A little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Long coat.
Shedding: Very light.
Exercise: Moderate exercise needed.
Jogging: A good jogging companion.
Indoors: Relatively inactive indoors.
Apartments: Good for apartment living.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
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