|
© Canon23 | Dreamstime.com
|
Komondor
Also known as: Hungarian Sheepdog
Breed origin: Hungary
Original purpose: Guardian of large herds of animals on the open plains of Hungary.
AKC recognized: 1937
AKC group: Working
Size:
Weight: males at least 100 lbs;
females at least 80 lbs
Size: Height: males at least 27½ inches;
females at least 25½ inches
|
© Anna63 (Anna Utekhina) | Dreamstime.com
|
Color: White, but not always the pure white of a brushed coat.
General characteristics/temperament: The Komondor is strong, dignified, courageous, vigilant, fast, agile, and very faithful. Their unusual, heavy coat of white cords helps them blend in with their flocks and protects them from extremes of weather and from predators. They are typically reserved with strangers, but very devoted to their family and their charges, and will protect them selflessly. They are happiest when they have something to watch over. Because of their size, strength, and speed, their owners must be able to keep them under control and must begin socialization and obedience training early.
Good with children? Yes
Protective? Yes
OK in apartments? No
Grooming requirement: The unique corded coat requires some special care. Between the ages of eight months and a year, the cords begin to form when the woolly undercoat is trapped by the harsher outercoat. As the coat mats together, the clumps need to be separated by following the pattern of the curls in the outercoat. Over time, the clumps will tighten up forming cords, and the cords will continue to grow longer throughout the life of the dogs. Some trimming around the mouth might be necessary to help it stay dry.
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, entropion, ectropion, cataracts, gastric dilatation volvulus, sensitivity to anesthetics.
Additional photos of Komondor
Recommended books for further reading:
|
Komondors
By Oscar Beregi and Leslie Benis
Published in 1993
192 pages
|
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Komondor Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Komondor Club of America Rescue
DogBreedMatch
