The Komondor is a livestock guardian dog breed originally from Hungary.
History: Descended from Tibetan dogs, the Komondor was brought to Hungary a thousand years ago by nomadic Magyars to guard flocks of sheep. The original dog, the Russian owtcharka, was large with long legs and a wooly coat that enabled it to blend in with the flocks it protected. The shepherds valued the breed so much that they did not allow interbreeding. The komondor was an effective foe to enemies of the flock and was fabled to have eliminated the wolf from Hungary. The word “komondor” can be found in Hungarian documents dating from the 16th century, though reference to large sheepdogs predate that.
Appearance: The Komondor is characterized by imposing strength, dignity, courageous demeanor, and pleasing conformation. He is a large, muscular dog with plenty of bone and substance. 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. The Komondor has a long and soft white coat that should always be corded. The coat of the Komondor should always be heavy, and be natural. Color of the coat is white, but not always the pure white of a brushed coat. The buff or cream color of the coat should fade away as the dog grows. The ideal skin color is gray, however, pink is acceptable, but not desirable.
Size: Height: 25.5 inches (65cm) and upward.
Weight: dogs up to 125 pounds (59kg); bitches 10% less.
Temperament: Komondor temperament is like that of all livestock guarding dogs: calm and steady when things are normal. In cases of trouble, the dog will leap to defend its charges. Komondorok are independent, protective, aggressive with strangers, territorial, and very intelligent. Although wary of strangers, the Komondor is a very devoted member of his family, loving and loyal. 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.
Health: watch for bloat, entropian, hip dysplasia, juvenile cataracts.
Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years
Grooming: The Komondor has very sensitive skin when it comes to certain flea and tick preventative, however it must regularly be treated as the coat is thick and corded making it difficult to remove them. Do not brush or comb a komondor’s coat. Only bathe the dog when necessary and let its coat thoroughly dry, which could take up to twenty-four hours. Clean the teeth and trim the nails when necessary. Because their coats take a long time to dry, swimming is discouraged. This breed does not like warm weather and can live outside in temperate to cool temperatures.
Puppy price: $800.00 - $1.200.00