The Komondor (plural: Komondorok) looks a little like an Old English Sheepdog had a baby with a mop. But their distinctive corded coats serve an important purpose: their hair acts as camouflage, allowing them to hide among sheep and surprise would-be attackers. Needless to say, this breed makes for a valuable guard dog.
Komondorok are an ancient breed — they're even mentioned in the code of Hammurabi, one of the oldest legal documents in the world.
Originally from Hungary, this large-sized and medium-energy breed can grow upwards of 80 pounds and lives an average of 10-12 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Working group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Guardian |
| Origin | Hungary |
| Breed group | Working |
| Average lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Size | Extra Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 147 |
| Family | Livestock dog |
| Date of origin | Ancient times |
| Original function | Sheep guardian |
| Today's function | Sheep guardian |
| Average size of male | Height: 25.5 Weight: 70 |
| Average size of female | Height: 25.5 Weight: 70 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Low energy |
| Exercise needs | Low |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderate maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | High tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A KOMONDOR'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Komondorok are protective and especially devoted toward children. This protective instinct means they can be somewhat suspicious of strangers, however. They make brave, loyal canine companions to their chosen people but will do best as the only dog in your heart and your home. This is a courageous and dignified breed.
WHAT IS KOMONDOR BEHAVIOR LIKE?
They're the busiest mops you'll ever meet. These moderately active dogs need daily exercise and room to run and stretch their legs. Komondorok are serious and hard-working — and like many dogs bred to be guardians, they can be a bit barky.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A KOMONDOR?
This is a dog who will stare down hungry wolves from the middle of a sheep herd: you better believe they're
independent-minded and strong-willed. You'll need time, patience, and experience to train a Komondor. Make sure you keep this working dog busy or entertained: a bored Komondor is prone to be destructive and noisy.
Start training early and be patient and consistent with your pup. They respond well to food, play, or praise rewards. Frequent socialization while your Komondor is still young and small is essential.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO KOMONDOROK SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
The Komondor sports a high maintenance hairstyle — their long white coat is dense and distinctively corded. They don't shed much, but their cords pick up a lot of debris. And those cords need separating, not brushing; plan to do this often (probably every day) to shake out dirt and discourage mats and tangles.
This breed has the heaviest fur of any dog — their coats alone can weigh fifteen pounds and have more than two thousand dreads.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO KOMONDOROK HAVE?
This is a generally healthy breed. Some Komondorok develop eye disease or hip dysplasia.
