Breeds 101: Meet the Komondor

Today’s feature breed for the “Breeds 101” series is the Komondor (plural Komondorok). These so called “mop dogs” are loyal flock guardians that are easily recognizable by their long, white, corded hair.

Komondorok were brought to Hungary by the Kuns (Cuman, Koman). According to the Komondor Club of America, “[i]t is thought that the word “Komondor” meant the “dog of the Kuns”. The word  “Komondor” can be found in Hungarian documents dating from the 16th century, though references to large sheepdogs predate that.”

According to the breed standard from the American Kennel Club, 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, covered with an unusual, heavy coat of white cords.”

Koms only come in one color which is white. This is because they are bred to be guardians of sheep. This color, in addition to specialized coat type, helps them to blend in with their flock.

The Komondor is a Hungarian breed that has been used a flock guardian for centuries; they are easily recognized by their unique corded, white coat.

Specialty coats like the Koms require some experienced care, especially when they are young and the coat is beginning to form into the cords. When the Komondor is born their coat is short and wavy, as they start to age the coat will get longer and fluffier. By 9-10 months the puppies should have the beginning plates that need to be separated into cords. The coats must be cored by 2 years of age. Once the coat is corded it should not be brushed, it does still require bathing and care must be taken to throughly rinse and dry the coat or residual shampoo & water can make it smell.

As an athletic breed, Komondorok require regular exercise. Precautions should be taken at the dog park though since the breed’s natural instinct is to guard against predators, they may not take kindly to seeing loose dogs running around.

Bred to be a very independent dog that would be on guard with a flock alone, training must start early. They thrive when they have a clear understanding of who is in charge, if not they can become overly protective of their herd. This herd doesn’t always have to be livestock, Koms can make wonderful family pets as they do great with a family unit. They are devoted to their guardianship which can leave them more reserved with strangers.

A very healthy breed, the Komondor has no breed specific health issues. As with many larger dog breeds, bloat, which is a life threatening enlargement of the stomach can be a concern.

A popular video was shared across a variety of social media platforms that helped skyrocket one Komondor to fame. She was featured swimming with her cords gliding across the top of the water. This Kom, Hanga, is one of only two living in Lithuania and can be followed on her instagram page.