Komondor: the dog that looks like a mop
The Komondor is a dog breed native to Hungary, famous not only for its imposing stature, but also for its distinctive coat that resembles a floor-cleaning mop.
According to Hungarian scholar Paul Honsch, the ancestors of the Komondor came to Hungary and then to Europe along with the Cumani people in the first half of the 13th century.
It was employed as a guard dog but mainly to protect the flocks from predator attacks so much so that in some documents from the 1500s it is mentioned as the shepherds’ best helper.
Appearance and size of the dog with dreads
The Komondor is a large dog, ranging in weight from 40 to 80 kg and height at withers from 65 to 80 cm.
Its physical characteristics include a strong and muscular body structure, which gives the dog an imposing and powerful appearance.
The coat of the Komondor is typically white in color, which can vary in shade from pure white to off-white.
One of the most striking features of the Komondor is precisely its coat, formed by long cords of fur similar to dread that develop from the age of about one year.
These cords, almost a woolen fur, provide excellent protection against climatic adversity.
One of the common questions regarding the Komondor is whether it loses hair
Komondor undergoes a natural “creasing” process.
During this process, the hair naturally separates into cords and there may be loss associated with this phenomenon.
Although the volume of hair loss is significantly less than in other dog breeds, it is still present.
The hair care of a Hungarian shepherd Komondor
Once formed, dreads do not require special grooming except in keeping them free of knots by carding or hand knotting.
During the molting period, it may be helpful to increase the frequency of brushing to remove dead hair and prevent accumulation of dirt or parasites.
It is also critical to check the underlying skin for signs of irritation or infection, as the coat may be hiding skin problems.
In addition to jointing, it is advisable to wash the Komondor every six months, using a dog-specific shampoo to help keep the coat and skin in optimal condition.
What is the character of the Komondor
The temperament of the Komondor is generally balanced, calm and patient.
He has an independent nature characterized by an innate predisposition to make independent decisions.
Territorial and protective, he is an excellent janitor of his home and family members, to whom he is deeply attached.
If well socialized from puppyhood, the Komondor can develop good sociality, interacting positively not only with its family members but also with other animals and people.
This makes it suitable for families with children, as long as it is handled with respect and care.
It is good to specify that Hungarian shepherds need space to move and play, so they are suitable in settings where they have gardens or large outdoor spaces, but that does not mean they should be perpetually relegated outside the home.
The recurrent pathologies
Like many large breeds, Komondors can be susceptible to orthopedic conditions.
Among the most common conditions are hip and elbowdysplasia, which can affect their mobility and quality of life.
Other issues include gastric torsion, which is a life-threatening condition, and skin diseases, especially if hair care is not performed properly.
In addition, Komondors may be predisposed to heart disease and eye problems such as cataracts.
It is essential to have regular veterinary checkups to monitor the dog’s overall health and intervene early in case of suspicious symptoms and behavioral abnormalities.
For advice on the proper approach with your Komondor, for vaccines and periodic check-ups, contact our Staff Veterinarians who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
