KOMONDOR Breed Standards
The origins of the Komondor are a bit of a mystery, and different people have different ideas about how the breed came about. Scholars believe the Komondor descends from the Russian Owtcharka, introduced to Hungary by the Huns during the 4th century. The Hungarian people, on the other hand, are content to say that the Komondor has been guarding their herds “since the beginning of time.” The strain of sheep known as Racka that was bred by the Magyars is said to closely resemble the Komondor, allowing these dogs to blend in with the flocks they protected. So skilled was the Komondor at protecting sheep from wild animals that it is believed by some to have eliminated the wolf in Hungary. The Magyar kept the Komondor line steadfastly pure, and did not allow interbreeding.
The Komondor was introduced to the United States in 1933 and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937. The dog’s numbers were significantly reduced in its native Europe during World War II, but through the efforts of European and American breeders it was able to rebound. The time and effort required to maintain its coat has made the Komondor a rather unpopular pet the world over (except in Hungary), though some American farmers are beginning to put it to use guarding livestock. The Komondor is also still used in Hungary to guard flocks, and is a popular pet there
SKILLS: A big muscular dog covered with dense, white cords. The Komondor is serious, confident, alert and commanding. It can be very reserved with strangers and is very territorial and highly protective of his family, house, car, and livestock.
SIZE: The Komondor is a large dog with males standing at least 27 1/2" at the shoulders, while females must be at least 25 1/2" tall. Occasionally one may see a Komondor as large as 31" or even bigger, but these cases are rare. While large, the Komondor is not an overly heavy dog. Males usually weigh more than 80 pounds and females more than 60 pounds.
COAT: This corded white coat helps the dog blend in well with sheep and also helps protect them from beasts of prey that it 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 and 5 years to reach the desired length. 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. It has a large head and generally massive bone structure, a hanging tail, and a very strong scissors bite.
CARE REQUIRED: Their hair must never be brushed or combed. It is divided into cords and trimmed. Its coat needs a lot of bathing and takes a long time to dry. It sheds very little if any.
CHARACTER: Despite its size, the Komondor is astonishingly fast, agile and light on its feet. The quick movement, large size, unique coat and majestic appearance of the Komondor can be awe inspiring. A fearless dog, the Komondor's main task is to guard flocks of sheep or other livestock against predators such as wolves, coyotes, feral dogs, or human predators. The nature of the Komondor is that of a calm watchful dog who thrives on responsibility.
TRAINING: It is possible to keep this breed in an urban environment although the country is more to its liking. If the Komondor is kept outdoors, it will naturally meet its own needs for exercise. This dog can be extremely lazy and will sleep and rest for hour upon hour.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: As a pet, the Komondor is quiet around the house, unless it perceives a threat to those entrusted to its care. If challenged, the Komondor becomes a fearless protector knocking down an intruder or breaking windows to protect its "flock". In the field, the Komondor is vigilant and trustworthy, reducing losses and even caring for orphans. It is important to remember that the Komondor is, first and foremost, a stock guard dog. When evaluating whether this is the breed for you and your family, keep this in mind. If you are seriously considering acquiring a Komondor, we strongly urge you to see adult dogs in their home environment before making your final decision.
EXERCISE: The white coat allows the dog to mingle unnoticed among the sheep while allowing the shepherd to see him at night. Also the coat acts as a protective barrier from the harsh weather and jaws of an attacking animal. The cords both insulate and cool. They are open to the skin so that they allow air to pass through, yet the density and length of the cords protect he animal underneath. In the U.S., Komondors have been effectively used to fend off coyotes and bobcats. Even in livestock guarding situations, however, Komondors must be trained to know the owners rules. Many a Komondor who works well with the sheep cannot be taken to the vet when the need arises. All dogs must be trained to be handled by the owner and strangers when necessary.
