Komondor Dog Breed Information

Group

Working

Weight

40-60kg

Height

60-70 cm

Lifespan

10-12 years

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About the Komondor

Reviewed by:

Dr. Dilber Hussain

Veterinarian

The Komondor might look a little like a cross between a sheep and a floor mop but beneath that super shaggy coat is a loyal companion with a big personality. Komondor – or plural Komondorok – are incredibly intelligent dogs who form close bonds with the right trainer but can prove a bit of a handful for the novice pet parent.

Keep reading our guide on Komondor dog breed information to find out if this is the right pooch for your pack.

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.

What is a Komondor breed?

A large working dog with an iconic, tasselled white coat consisting of mop-like cords, the Komondor was originally bred to watch over livestock and they retain this guardian dog prevalence. They are incredibly powerful and almost scarily smart… but if they see you as part of their herd, a loyal Komondor will protect you with its life.

This ancient breed is a bit unique and can prove to be both a loving family dog and dutiful guard dog wrapped up in a big, corded coat.

Who is a Komondor 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.

Komondor Grooming & Shedding

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 Komondors bark a lot?

They are usually calm and quiet, their large size 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.

What is the average weight & height of a Komondor dog?

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).

Are Komondors easy to train?

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!

How do Komondors behave? A look at their temperament and personality

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.

Does the Komondor have any common health issues?

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 does a Komondor need to be fed?

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.

How much can you expect to pay for 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!

Komondor FAQs

Is a Komondor ideal for a first-time dog owner?

No. They can make for affectionate pets, sure… but training a Kom and getting it to respect you as the leader is no easy task. As it matures it is likely to become increasingly stubborn and its heightened intelligence makes it quick to bore. An experienced trainer will know how to turn this dog’s independence into an asset.

A first-time dog owner is likely to find themselves in a standoff with a staring mop dog.

Do Komondors suffer from separation anxiety?

Yes. These dogs are natural-born guardians and might become anxious when they are apart from their beloved herd. They are also smart… like super smart… making them prone to boredom without a companion around to watch over.

Are Komondors hypoallergenic dogs?

No. Technically speaking, they are not hypoallergenic. However, most people who suffer from allergies to hair or dander struggle to live with dogs who shed, leaving hair all over the floor and furniture.

Since these woolly guys have tightly knit hair and tend not to shed – they might drop the occasional cord – they can still be a pretty good option for someone who suffers from milder allergies.

Will a Komondor need professional grooming?

This depends on the experience of the dog owner. A Kom doesn’t require brushing but it does need to be bathed regularly – and bathing and drying this mop-like pooch is a bit of an ordeal. With its double coat and thick white cords, it might be an idea to take it for the occasional professional wash just to make doubly sure it’s completely clean and free from pestilential hitchhikers.