Monday, October 13, 2008

Komondor dog

The Komondor dog or Komondorok is a livestock guardian dog breed that originally came from Hungary.

Females Komondor measures 27 in/69 cm at the withers while the male Komondorok measures 27 inches at the withers but many are over 30 inches tall which makes the Komondor dog one of the larger common breeds of dog. People who are unfamiliar with the breed are often surprised by how quick and agile the Komondor dogs.

The Komondor dogs has long, thick, uniquely and strikingly corded white coat. the Komondor dogs has the heaviest amount of fur in the canine world that looks like dreadlocks or a mop. The puppy coat is soft and fluffy. However, the coat is wavy and tends to curls as the puppy matures. The dreadlock looking coat is formed naturally from the soft undercoat and the coarser outer coat combining to form tassels, or cords. These cords are formed naturally as a result of the soft, wavy undercoat intertwining with the coarser outer coat. The length of the cords increases with time, as the coat grows. Shedding is very minimal with this breed, contrary to what people might think. Heavy shedding only occurs when this breed is in puppy stage. The Komondor is born only with a white coat, unlike the similar-looking Puli, which is usually white or black, or sometimes grayish. However, a working Komondor’s coat may be discolored by the elements, and may appear off-white if not washed regularly.

Komondor temperament is calm and steady when things are normal just like the other livestock guarding dogs. But in case of trouble the dog will leap to defend its territory. Komondor was bred to think for itself and many people find it very intelligent as well as extremely affectionate with its family and friends and gentle with the children of the family. They are wary of strangers but will accept them when it is clear that no harm is meant. It is very protective of its family, home and possessions. They Komondor will instinctively guard his family, home and possessions without even any training. The Komondor dog breed has great speed and power and will leap toward a predator to drive it away or to knock it down. The Komomndor can be used successfully to guard sheep from wolves or other predators.

Because of the Komondor’s size, power, and speed, its owner must have it under control. Obedience training is highly advised specially at at early age around 4 - 8 months. Komondorok are usually intelligent and take well to training if started early. Komondorok become obstinate when bored, so it is imperative that training sessions be upbeat and happy. Praise is a must, as are consistent and humane corrections and make sure that any unfriendly or hostile behavior will not be tolerated because it will always think such behavior is appropriate. Therefore, consistent corrections even with a young puppy are necessary to ensure a well-adjusted adult Komondor. Socialization is also extremely important. This dog breed should be exposed to new situations, people and other dogs as a puppy. Because it is a natural guard dog, a Komondor that is not properly socialized may react in an excessively aggressive manner when confronted with a new situation or person.

Given the proper environment and care, a Komondor can become a very responsible and loving dog. They are devoted and calm without being sluggish. As in any breed, there is quite a range of personalities, so your needs should be outlined clearly to your breeder. Your experienced breeder can help you identify personalities that will be suited to be an independent livestock dog or one which can be a good obedience dog or family pet. Adolescence can be marked by changes in a Komondor’s temperament, eating habits, trainability and general attitude.

Komondorok do not suffer many heredity problems. Perhaps because the breed has descended from centuries of hardy working stock, Komondorok have few genetically linked problems. Like retinal eye problems found in other breeds, nor is there dwarfism or hereditary blood disorders.