Komondor - Appearance & Grooming
Dog Breeds
Introduction
Appearance & Grooming of the Komondor Dog Breed: The average Komondor stands 25.5 to 27.5 inches high at the shoulder and weighs between 80 and 125 pounds. Their long ropey coat does not shed much, but should be frequently bathed and trimmed. The coat should never be brushed or combed in any way.
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Appearance
At first glance, the Komondor may resemble a mop, but his long, corded white coat actually helps the dog to blend in with sheep and protects him from predators who may be stalking the flock he has been charged with guarding. The cords are felt-like and are made up of the undercoat fusing with the topcoat. The body of the Komondor is slightly longer than it is tall, with a level topline. The head and muzzle are quite large, but are rather short. The eyes are dark brown and the ears are shaped like an elongated triangle, hanging down to blend in with the rest of the coat. The nose is black. It is preferred that the teeth meet in a scissors bite, and the bite of a Komondor is quite strong.
Size and Weight
This is a large breed, with male Komondors standing 27.5 inches or more at the withers and females standing 25.5 inches or more. Males weigh over 100 pounds and females weight 80 pounds and up.
Coat and Color
Komondors have a very distinctive and unique coat. As puppies, they sport soft curls that grow heavier as the dog matures. These curls eventually become long cords that resemble the strands of a mop. The undercoat is soft and the topcoat is coarse. Adult Komondors are white, but as puppies they may be cream or have some buff shading.
Grooming Needs
The Komondor does not need to be brushed, but the coat is anything but low-maintenance. The coat begins to form its cords at eight to 12 months. The process occurs when the undercoat is trapped by the topcoat, and it is essential to keep the hair clean and dry so the the cords do not become discolored. It can take 12-16 months or more for the cords to completely form.
Once the cords have been formed, they must be separated on a regular basis in order to keep the dog clean and prevent matting. Bathing a Komondor is a lengthy process, as it can take all day for the dog to dry. Owners of non-competitive dogs may elect to trim the hair for easier maintenance, but the dog loses his distinctive Komondor appearance when the coat is trimmed short.
Check the ears on a regular basis for signs of wax buildup, irritation or infection. Clean the ears with a cotton ball and a veterinarian-approved cleanser; never use a cotton swab in a dog's ear canal. Teeth should be brushed on a weekly basis to prevent tartar buildup, promote gum health and keep bad breath at bay. Trim nails monthly if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally outdoors.
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Temperament & Personality