Komondor Dog Breed Facts & Information

Hungarian Shepherd Dog
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Have you dreamed of owning a giant dog for as long as you can remember? The kind of dog that lumbers toward you and takes up most of the couch? Well, then the massive, lovable komondor might be the perfect breed for you.

This fluffy dog with its signature coat will definitely take up plenty of space in your house and your heart. These affectionate dogs make great family pets if you have a house and a yard big enough to give them some space to roam around. If the komondor sounds like the perfect pup for you, read on for all the info you need!

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The Basics

The komondor is a Hungarian shepherd dog, and it's known best for its long, white coat that forms into cords that make it look like a giant, mobile mop. Komondors are a large breed, weighing between 80-100 pounds and 25.5.-27.5 inches tall. While Komondors as puppies need plenty of exercise, once they move into adulthood they settle into only moderately active.

Komondors are bred to be watchdogs, so they do tend to bark when they sense a threat. And socializing is key because as they grow up, these dogs might learn to be fearful and bark at anything. So they should be regularly introduced to different dogs, people, and environments.

Komondors are generally considered healthy dogs, but some common ailments include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and bloat. And keeping a komondor from becoming overweight is one of the best ways to keep it healthy.

Hungarian komondor dogs in the park
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The History

The komondor was a sheep herding dog in Hungary for thousands of years. Their white, wool-like coat helped them blend in with the flock. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1937. However, World War II meant that imports from Hungary stopped, so the breed suffered for a long time. But in modern times, the breed has come back into fashion as a fluffy, large companion, and the komondor ranks 154th on the AKC's list of most popular dogs.

Cute Hungarian Komondor
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The Personality

A komondor wants to have someone or something to look after and protect. Komondors are highly affectionate dogs, and they love to shower that affection on their family. Komondors are very watchful, however, and they need to be socialized so that they don't perceive everything as a threat. Because of their size and speed, they need an owner that can project control over it.

Training your komondor from a young age will be very important. These big, mop-like pups are very smart and take to training well, but starting as early as possible is key. Komondors also benefit from healthy socialization around other people and in public places, so be sure to take them on walks, to parks, and to the pet store.

The Appearance

Because a Komondor's glorious, mop-like coat is its shining feature, it definitely needs a lot of attention. The coat gets dirty easily and needs to be cleaned. Also, the cords need to be separated so they don't get tangled. If you get one of these massive dogs, you'll want to make sure you have the time to keep their unique coat looking fabulous.

Komondor essential facts:

  • *Personality: *Dignified, watchful, affectionate
  • Energy Level: Somewhat active, as they get older, their exercise needs decrease
  • *Barking Level: *Moderate, but barks when they sense danger
  • *Shedding: *Seasonal
  • *Grooming: *Daily
  • *Good with Children: *Yes
  • *Trainability: *Very good, eager to please
  • Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
  • Weight: 8-11 pounds
  • *Life Expectancy: *14-16 years

Would you like to meet more dog breeds? Scroll through this piece about different breeds of shaggy dogs and then take a look at the smart, cheerful, endlessly energetic Kooikerhondje!