Family:
Breed Group: Flock Guard, AKC Working
Origin: Hungary
Date of Origin: Ancient breed
Originally used for: Livestock guarding
Used today: Livestock guarding, companion
Other Name(s): Hungarian Komondor, Hungarian Sheepdog
History of the Breed: The Komondor is a large and ancient flock guardian breed, for at least 10 centuries it has served as a shepherd
and protector of the flock. The breed would typically work alone without a shepherd and often had to fight off wolves and bears. These dogs were
brought to Hungary in the 13th century, likely from Asia. The name Komondor comes from the Cuman people that originally lived near the Yellow River.
General Appearance: A very unique looking large breed with a very large head. The skull is broad with well-developed arches over the eyes
with a moderate stop. The muzzle is wide, coarse, and truncated. The top of the muzzle is straight and is parallel to the top of the skull. The
black nose is wide with wide nostrils. The dark brown eyes are almond shaped and medium sized. The long ears are slightly rounded and are medium-set
and hanging. The chest is powerful, wide, and deep. The breast is broad and well-muscled. The rump is wide and muscular. The tail is long and level
with the back. The white double coat is dense and covered with a heavy coat of long hanging cords that resemble dreadlocks.
Height & Weight:
Height 25.5 - 33 inches
Weight 80 - 110 pounds.
Coat: A very dense, protective coat. A double coat, the under coat is
dense, soft, and woolly, the outer coat is coarse and covered with a heavy coat of hanging cords that resemble dreadlocks.
These cords are formed when the outer coat fuses with the undercoat to form felt that hangs in long cords. The quantity of
these cords or dreadlocks are based on age with older dogs having the largest quantity.
Color: White.
Grooming needs: Medium, The coat is divided into cords and trimmed with scissors as needed.
The coat requires a lot of bathing and it takes a considerable time to dry.
Temperament of Breed: Excellent and loyal, this breed can be aggressive with strangers. Proper socialization is strongly recommended
at an early age.
Friendly with children: Yes, with family members, proper socialization at an early age is strongly recommended
Friendly with other dogs: Yes, with proper socialization at an early age
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: Low, daily exercise is recommended, this breed tends to be lazy when kept as companions.
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Bloat, hip dysplasia
Minor: Skin problems
Life Expectancy: 11 - 13 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 148
First Registered by the AKC: 1937
Registries: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, NZKC, ANKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Komondor Club of America, Inc.