History of the origin of the breed
There is little information about where and when this shaggy shepherd with dreadlocks was bred. Most likely, the Komondor began to live next to humans more than a thousand years ago. The first homeland of dogs is considered to be one of the regions of the Black Sea, where, living in a house next to people, they helped them herd cattle. Later, the dogs moved towards Hungary, where the formation of the breed took place.
As for ancestors, special types of sheep and wild wolves are recorded in the unofficial pedigree of Komondors. Such an unusual crossing could really give the dog its bright appearance, but scientists are still inclined to the fact that the ancestors of the Hungarian were ancient shepherd dogs and wolves.
The spread of Hungarians around the world was simultaneous in European countries and America. In this regard, there was often a mixture of breeds, but the established standard of Hungarian Shepherds is very strict and allows little deviation from the norm.
Pros and cons of the breed
The advantages of the breed include:
- devotion;
- excellent security qualities;
- love for children;
- unpretentiousness in food;
- independence;
- high mental performance;
- good health.
The following are considered disadvantages:
- need for early socialization;
- stubbornness;
- the dog requires a lot of space;
- the need for training from an early age;
- excessive mobility;
- desire for leadership.
Description of the breed
Komondors are large dogs. Their height at the withers reaches 80 cm in males and 70 in females. At the same time, the average weight is about 50 kg, although heavier representatives are also found. In general, a feature of the Hungarian standard is the fact that the size of dogs is not limited. The larger and more muscular the dog, the higher its price.
The entire body, including the head, is covered with long, thick hair twisted into strands. The coat color can be white or slightly gray. Small dark eyes are always hidden by hair, and triangular ears hang along the cheeks. The tail is carried down, although the dense fur prevents this from being visible.
The body is strong and muscular, but due to the fact that the coat is very voluminous, it can be difficult to see its true dimensions. The neck is high and level, and the chest, although not too wide, is very powerful. The paws are strong and as muscular as the rest of the body.
Character and behavioral characteristics
The character of the Hungarians is as unusual as their appearance. On the one hand, these are active, friendly dogs that behave like puppies even in adulthood. On the other hand, there are freedom-loving animals with a fighting or hunting disposition.
Hungarians usually feel dependent on their owner, and therefore behave well-mannered in his presence. But once out of the strict control of the owner's eyes, the dog may show some aggression. They are very friendly towards children, as well as other pets. Often they strive to take care of both, for which they do not allow them to get far from them.
An interesting thing about the character of adult Hungarians is the lack of need for frequent games. As soon as the puppy grows up, he can spend his time quite sedately and calmly, without forcing the owner to take long and active walks with energetic games.
Character of the Komondor
The characteristics of the breed say that these shepherds come in two types: freedom-loving and dependent on people. A breeder who knows the character of each baby will help you choose a suitable puppy.
Representatives of the breed mature only at the age of three.
Before this, they are characterized by increased playfulness, mobility and trustfulness, and in general behave like children. This behavior is completely incompatible with the enormous size of the animal and often causes bewilderment among unknowing people.
An adult dog has a well-developed intellect and excellent ingenuity. With proper training, you will get an obedient pet.
Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/asw909/46416366155/
The Komondor knows how to quickly analyze a situation and make the right decision.
If he senses danger, he will attack the enemy without waiting for the owner’s command.
The Hungarian dog is stubborn.
If she senses relaxation on the part of the owner, she will quickly take the reins of power into her own paws and try to adjust all family members to herself. For this reason, the upbringing process must be taken responsibly, starting from a very early age.
Early socialization of the dog is mandatory.
If you do not pay due attention to this point, the puppy will turn into an aggressive dog that will begin to show negativity towards both people and animals.
Attitude towards the owner
According to reviews from owners, the Komondor is fully characterized by the quality of loyalty.
In order to win over an animal, you need to win its trust and establish yourself as the owner.
Sometimes this is not easy to do, since from the very first days the puppy is distinguished by independence, stubbornness and even cunning.
But if the owner earns the respect of the four-legged pet, he will be devoted to his loved one all his life.
When buying a Komondor, remember that this is not a toy. It is very difficult for a dog to tolerate a change of owner.
Attitude towards children
The Komondor dog simply loves children, and this is not an exaggeration. She treats even the little ones with patience and understanding, allowing her to play with herself and taking care of the little ones. Older children are friends of the dog; he will treat them patronizingly and become an integral part of their everyday life, walking them to school and joyfully licking them when they meet.
You can safely let your children and your dog go outside.
No one will offend your kids, because there is hardly anyone who can move the “stone wall” that will certainly arise between the child and the offender.
Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/asw909/33455374428/
Komondors love only “their” children and only allow them various pranks.
All other children are strangers to them, the dogs treat them accordingly.
Attitude towards strangers
The Hungarian dog is an excellent watchdog; it is always in a state of “combat readiness”. If no one shows aggression towards the dog’s loved ones or tries to violate the boundaries of the protected territory, the dog remains in a state of calm and balance. But as soon as the animal senses danger, it will act quickly and, in most cases, mercilessly.
Komondors are wary of strangers whom they see for the first time.
You need to take into account this feature of the representatives of the breed and not leave them alone with people who came into your home for the first time.
A dog can break a person's collarbone with a blow to its head.
She acts in exactly the same way towards a four-legged opponent: she breaks his back with her head.
Education and training
Like other large shepherd dogs, Komondors need training and education from the first months of life. Well-socialized and trained animals easily understand commands and are obedient. The only situation when the dog’s orders are not taken seriously by the owner is anger due to the danger to the family. If a dog rushes to protect its own, then it will be impossible to stop it.
Animals perceive all information related to learning easily and quickly. But the training process will be slowed down if you do not provide the animal with variety. Constantly changing exercises is the key to successful training. Another important detail that can make the learning process easy is complete trust between the dog and the owner. If a dog does not respect his owner, he will take the initiative and make his own rules.
Training
Independence leads to stubborn behavior, so parenting is difficult for beginners. During training it is important:
- Take into account the age factor. Basic commands are put into the puppy's head from the 1st day of his appearance in the house. If the pet is taken at a more conscious age, then the basics must be fixed by the breeder.
- Add variety. The dog does not like the same type, so it begins to get bored with a monotonous program. Use game forms of classes.
- Avoid punishment. The use of physical force is not permitted. To express dissatisfaction, it is enough to change your intonation.
- Praise for any achievements. Even tiny successes should be rewarded.
- Prove your leadership. The Komondor must understand that he is not the boss in the house. Dogs are not that difficult to handle, and dogs tend to be dominant.
- Don't miss classes. Training lasts a lifetime, as any relaxation leads to destructive behavior. The pet is desperately trying to break the prohibitions, and all efforts come to naught.
Diseases
The lifespan of Hungarians usually reaches 11-12 years. At the same time, they are characterized by a small number of typical diseases. All of them are associated with the unique coat of the animal. Without proper care, pets will almost certainly be exposed to infectious diseases and parasites. In addition, during the period of main growth, the animal’s paws may suffer. They can become deformed under the weight of the animal. This is why dogs need a special physical training regimen.
Otherwise, Hungarian Shepherds are not at risk of such canine diseases as hip dysplasia or kidney problems. They are very hardy and physically hardened. True, you will still have to show the dog to the doctor periodically for preventive purposes.
Care
The main care for Hungarian Shepherds is built around taking care of the pet's fur. It does not require combing or frequent washing, but newly growing strands must be carefully sorted to prevent them from becoming tangled. In addition, the fur and ears should be constantly checked for the presence of parasites, and the eyes should be washed.
Hungarians do not have any difficulties with molting. Wool twisted into strands does not fall out, but remains inside the cord for life, but this same fact seriously affects its purity. Since washing the animal is often not recommended, walking can be done in special overalls, at least in the cold season.
Feeding
These animals are unpretentious when it comes to food. And the breed requires small portions. This is because historically they were accustomed to eating infrequently while working with the shepherd. Modern Komondors will benefit from both special dry food and natural food. In both cases, 1-1.5 kilograms of food will be consumed per day, which must be given once a day, but at the same time.
Among the food prohibitions for Hungarians are fatty meat, bones, milk, and chocolate, which they like. Additionally, you should take care of special supplements and vitamins, which are often necessary for Komondors. Also, clean, fresh water should always be freely available.
Choosing a puppy
You can buy a Hungarian Shepherd dog only in special kennels. When purchasing an animal secondhand, the owner runs the risk of running into a similar breed. At a young age, Komondors are practically indistinguishable from royal poodles and South Russian shepherd dogs.
Resellers do not have the necessary official papers. Therefore, the pet will be sold “on my word of honor.”
In every major city there is more than one specialized nursery that breeds this breed. Their prices are significantly higher than market prices, but the buyer can be confident in the quality of the contents and the purity of the pedigree.
When choosing Komondors, you should watch them for some time. Active and brave individuals will have fun together, frail and sick ones will huddle in the corner of the enclosure.
The pet's appearance must comply with the standards. Eyes and ears are clean. The wool is combed. The color of the mane is even.
The enclosure where Hungarian Shepherds are kept cannot be cold and dirty. Puppies should have a bowl of clean drinking water freely available.
It is useful to read customer reviews. There are many sites on the Internet where caring people leave their comments about nurseries.
How to choose a puppy
Due to the strictness of the standard, Hungarians are chosen primarily by looking at the parents of the puppies. They should not have any flaws. As for the potential pet itself, a muscular build, clear dark eyes and floppy ears are important for him. You should also pay attention to the animal's bite. Even in a small representative of the species it must be correct. Puppies with light eyes and nose or with erect ears are considered rejected, which means they will not be able to take part in exhibitions.
The appearance of the selected animal should be neat and healthy, its coat well-groomed, and its behavior quite active. It wouldn’t hurt to test your baby’s vigilance with a special exercise with something thrown on the floor. This will show how strong the puppy's guard qualities are. A brave puppy with good skills will certainly run up, look around and maybe even bark at the thing.
Care and maintenance
It is best to keep the Hungarian Shepherd in the enclosure of a private house, where it will have more space. Thick coat will protect the dog even during severe frosts.
Having a high fence is a must. A small fence will not create obstacles for the Komondor if he decides to go outside the yard and “get to know” his neighbors.
The dog is not born to be kept on a chain.
In the process of evolution, Komondors have adapted to living in a city apartment. They just need a longer walk. The only, but very big problem will be the dog’s habit of considering “his” zone not only the house in which the animal lives, but also the territory where it is walked daily.
Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/komondor-dog-guard-dog-animals-3803046/
In Hungary, you can hear a saying that states that it is easier to enter the Komondor's territory than to leave it.
Walks
The Hungarian Shepherd needs exercise. This dog’s need must be satisfied in order for the animal to remain healthy and obedient.
You need to walk your four-legged pet in the morning and evening, each walk should last at least two hours.
A leisurely walk is not enough for a dog; a short run will not satisfy its needs for movement.
Your beloved dog should be taken to a site equipped with obstacles, taken with you on a bike ride and involved in a long-distance cross-country race.
Hygiene
The difficult and harsh conditions in which the breed developed and matured made it undemanding in terms of living conditions.
Representatives of the breed require standard care, which includes the following:
- regular eye examination;
- teeth cleaning;
- weekly examination of your pet's ears;
- trimming claws and hair between the “toes” of the paws;
- bathing.
When bathing Komondors, it is better to use shampoo that contains lanolin.
Other products not only make the skin dry, but also thin the hair.
Be sure to inspect your dog's paws after every walk. Due to the large amount of hair, you may not notice a splinter or wound on the limb of your beloved pet.
Representatives of the breed do not have a specific unpleasant odor.
A dog that resembles a mop is actually very clean and will not force its owner to hang around his person every day.
Feeding
The Komondor dog is not picky about food; it can be fed both natural and dry food.
Special attention should be paid to feeding the puppy. Until he grows up, it is better to feed the baby canned food or dry food, because with such nutrition the baby receives everything he needs for growth and harmonious development. With natural feeding, properly balancing the diet for a small Komondor is quite a difficult task.
When the puppy grows up, he can be switched to natural feeding by introducing foods such as meat, cereals, and vegetables into his diet. Or feed him ready-made dry food and continue.
A dog with dreadlocks does not eat much per day: only 1-1.5 kg of food.
A natural-fed animal should be given vitamin and mineral supplements intended for large breed dogs twice a year.
Be sure to provide your pet with free access to drinking water.
Grooming
The dog's coat will require the most attention. You can only remove tangled dreadlocks with your hands; sometimes brushes are used for this purpose, but they must have very soft bristles.
Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ger_dekker/5054305897/
After walks, be sure to remove any debris that has become entangled in the wool.
It is enough to care for the coat once a month. The longer the dreadlocks are, the less attention they require.
You will have to take care of the hair on the tips of the ears and behind your pet’s ears a little more often.
If the dog does not plan to take part in competitions, it can be trimmed. Grooming of show animals is strictly prohibited.
It is imperative to regularly inspect the animal's coat for the presence of parasites. The length of the coat creates certain difficulties in this matter.
Price and where to buy a puppy
Today there are less than 1000 such dogs in our country, and naturally, its price increases due to this. As with other breeds, the cost of a Komondor also depends on the place of purchase and pedigree. You can buy it second-hand for literally 10 thousand rubles, but from ordinary parents.
If the purchase is made in a nursery, and the parents were participants in exhibitions, the price increases at least 5 times. How advisable it is to spend that kind of money on buying a dog, everyone must decide for themselves. For some non-professional breeders who buy a friend rather than an exhibition specimen, it is easier to buy a slightly defective representative of the species in the same nursery at a reduced price.
Briefly about the main thing
- The origin of the Hungarians is unknown for certain, but most likely they were bred more than 1000 years ago somewhere on the Black Sea, and from there they migrated to Hungary.
- Hungarians are large dogs. Their weight reaches 50 kg, and their height at the withers is 60-70 centimeters.
- The unique long coat of the Hungarian is white or gray and twisted into cords.
- They are friendly in nature, including towards children and other animals.
- The fighting guard character makes the dog very dangerous during an attack on the enemy; at this moment even the owner will not be able to control it.
- The shepherd dog requires good training and socialization, and with the right approach, it learns commands very quickly.
- All care concerns the long coat, which does not need to be washed, cut or combed, but you must ensure that it is curled correctly.
- This is one of the few breeds that is not afraid of typical canine diseases. It's worth keeping an eye on infections and parasites.
- Hungarians are absolutely unpretentious when it comes to food and it is enough for them to get food once a day.
Characteristics and standards
Males of the Hungarian Shepherd reach a height at the withers of 70 cm, females - 65. Representatives of this species are the largest individuals of the breed. They have a light skeleton, despite their external strength. Average weight – 60 kg.
The fur, as it matures, curls into braids, reminiscent of dreadlocks. Komondor puppies are born with a wavy, soft coat. This breed has no undercoat. The first molt occurs after 2 years.
Representatives of the Hungarian Shepherd have impeccable vision, despite the hanging curls. The owner should not worry that long hair on the face causes discomfort to the four-legged pet.
Expert opinion
Anna Abramenko
An avid dog lover. Experience in veterinary medicine since 2009.
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The Komondor's braids grow throughout his life. Therefore, the breeder must regularly trim the mane and monitor the dog's hairstyle. Despite this, the Hungarian Shepherd is bred to live in city apartments.
In adulthood, the Komondor's coat consists of 2 thousand voluminous cords weighing more than 7 kg. This makes the shepherd dogs from Hungary seem massive.
The last FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) certified breed standard for the Hungarian Shepherd was approved in 1924. Dogs with dreadlocks must be white. But many breeders of past decades tried to breed individuals of other colors, for example, black. József Bukowski, the founder of the Hungarian Shepherd, also worked in this direction.
Non-standard Komondors are mixed breeds. They do not participate in exhibitions or shows.
