Komondor Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Komondor?

The mighty Komondor originated in its native Hungary back in the early 16th century (or possibly earlier) where it served as a reliable working dog guarding sheep and other livestock from predators. With their white, floor-length coat the "Kom" camouflaged with the sheep it was protecting, unseen by predators until the very last moment.

The American Kennel Club recognised the noble Komondor dog breed in 1937. This already uncommon breed almost went extinct during World War II though, leaving only a small number. Efforts to breed have proven successful, yet this strong-willed dog still ranks low in popularity compared to other breeds of similar intelligence, such as the ever-popular German Shepherd.

Who are Komondor dogs best for?

Like many dog breeds, the Komondor can make a wonderful family pet if adopted as a puppy. However, as natural-born guard dogs, they become fiercely protective of their humans and readily see other dogs as potential threats. The shaggy Kom might not be the best addition to a multi-pet household.

Komondor owners should expect a super-smart companion which will test the boundaries of anyone trying to give them a command. This breed is not the best choice for a first-time owner, since they require dedicated training and respond best to a strong leader who can understand and work with a Komondor's independent thought process. Yup, these guys are complex creatures.

If you're thinking that a Komondor might be the right pooch for you, make sure you have all the space it needs to run because this large, agile dog will not thank you for keeping it cooped up indoors all day. The ideal home for a Kom will have a large, securely fenced yard for it to roam about to its heart's content.

How much grooming does a Komondor need?

Sporting its own unique style of luxurious coat, Komondorok hairs form tight cords which hang long and somewhat wild and require a dedicated grooming regime to keep clean. A Komondor's mop-like coat occurs naturally at about nine months, replacing its soft puppy coat. Once this happens, expect grooming to become a big part of being a Komondor guardian.

The good news is that you don't need to brush your Komondor's coat or you might damage its corded hair. Instead, proper coat care means bathing regularly to keep it free from parasites and debris. Experts recommend using a diluted shampoo and drying thoroughly to prevent a strong smell of mildew - the dignified Kom will know if it smells... and it will make sure you know too.

Do Komondor bark much?

They are usually calm and quiet, their large sizing meaning they tend not to feel the need to announce themselves. This dog is likely to bark when it senses something or someone new, especially if it's not accustomed to strangers and instinctively perceives them as a threat.

Socialising your pup early on will reduce its tendency to bark at strangers because when these guys bark... they really bark.

Do Komondor bite?

Okay, these guys can do a lot of damage if they feel like it. Their immense size and fearsome strength mean they have an above-average bite power to boot.

The good news is they are not snap-happy dogs. Although fiercely protective, they are more likely to bark than they are to bite. (Possibly because their terrifying bark keeps people too far away to bite!) As long as you treat them with respect and socialise them with other people and animals, biting shouldn't be a problem.

What is the temperament & personality of a Komondor?

Of all working dog breeds, the Kom is among the most protective. They are devoted guardians to their family and make for loving companions. Generally calm in their own environment, their guard dog instincts mean they often perceive strangers or other dogs as potential threats.

You might want to enrol your Komondor in a puppy class or multi-breed club. Socialising your dog from an early age will encourage it to see people and animals as potential friends, so you wind up with a big, fluffy, well-mannered dog.

What is the weight & size of a Komondor?

Every dog is different, but on average this breed weighs in at: 40 kg+ (male) or 36 kg+ (female).

They stand tall at a height of: 70 cm (male) or 66 cm (female).

How much training does a Komondor need?

This breed of dog is incredibly intelligent and quick to learn. However, it is also more of a strong-willed and independent thinker than many other dogs making it a challenge for first-time pet parents.

A Komondor will benefit from early obedience training. Be prepared, however, as it's known to ignore what it considers an "unnecessary" command - so pick your battles!

What are some of the most common health issues for a Komondor?

Bred with that thick, sheep guardian coat, Komondor dogs are a typically hardy breed. However, there are a few potential ailments you should keep an eye out for if you are planning to adopt a member of this breed, including: hip dysplasia, entropion and bloating.

What is the lifespan of a Komondor?

With proper healthcare and a nutritious diet, expect this breed of dog to live for 10-12 years.

How much should you feed a Komondor?

Just like any dog, your loyal Kom should dine on high-quality dog food that is full of all the vitamins they need. These dogs don't eat a lot for their large size and are known to skip a meal if they just don't feel like it. The best thing you can do is speak to your veterinarian about choosing the right type of food for the age and lifestyle of your canine companion.

What is the price of a Komondor in Australia?

These pups are incredibly rare so expect to be looking at paying about $1000.

Since they are uncommon in Australia, contact your local veterinarian or animal shelter for information on a responsible breeder. These dogs are often adopted without a proper understanding of their requirements and can be sadly abandoned. Try searching for a rescue Kom in need of a forever home - you might just find one!