Buzz
Is it a dog or a mop? Uncover the truth about this breed often mistaken for a sheep.
1. THEIR ORIGINS TRACE BACK TO HUNGARY.
Debates surround the origins of these shaggy dogs, but many believe they arrived in Hungary alongside the Cumans—a nomadic Turkic group escaping a Mongolian invasion in 1246. Komondor-like skeletons have been discovered in Cuman burial sites. Some theories propose that the Huns brought the breed after encountering it during their travels in Russia. The first documented references to the Komondor appear in a 16th-century Hungarian manuscript.
2. THEY ARE DIRECTLY RELATED TO A RUSSIAN HERDING BREED.
Petful // CC BY 2.0
The Komondor is believed to have descended directly from the Aftscharka, a Russian herding dog. These dogs were utilized in southern Russia for guarding livestock and had thick, curly coats in various colors.
3. THE CORRECT PLURAL FORM OF KOMONDOR IS KOMONDOROK.
Petful // CC BY 2.0
In Hungarian, the letter k functions similarly to the English letter s. For instance, ember (person) transforms into emberek (people).
4. THEIR COAT SERVES AS CAMOUFLAGE.
Hannah Keyser
Contrary to appearances, this breed wasn’t designed for floor cleaning. Their mop-like coat serves as an ingenious camouflage mechanism. While guarding sheep, Komondorok seamlessly blend into the flock due to their woolly fur. This allows them to ambush predators like wolves, protecting the livestock from harm.
5. THEY EXCEL AS GUARD DOGS.
Due to their heritage as herding dogs, Komondorok are exceptional guardians. However, this also makes them suspicious of strangers and less friendly toward animals outside their household. Early socialization is crucial to avoid potential issues with neighbors or their pets.
6. A FAMOUS ALBUM COVER SHOWCASES THIS BREED.
Beck’s 1996 album, Odelay, prominently features a Komondor mid-jump on its cover. Over time, this image has become iconic. Interestingly, the decision to use the photo was spontaneous: As noted in 100 Greatest Album Covers, Beck chose it hastily to meet the release deadline. His girlfriend, Leigh Limon, discovered the image in a dog breed book, originally captured by renowned photographer Joan Ludwig. Robert Fisher, Beck’s co-art director, added the text. Fisher recounted in 100 Greatest Album Covers:
After selecting the dog photo, I sought the original transparency… [Ludwig] lived nearby and was thrilled to have visitors. Her garage was packed with dog pictures, but after hours of searching, I couldn’t locate the original. I ended up scanning the image directly from the book, which gave the cover a unique, albeit imperfect, aesthetic.
7. THE BREED STANDARD DEMANDS EXTENSIVE CORDS.
As per the American Kennel Club, Komondors lacking their distinctive corded coats are ineligible for competitions. Achieving this unique look typically takes around two years, as their fur transitions from soft curls to dense cords. On average, a Komondor’s coat can feature up to 2000 cords and weigh approximately 15 pounds.
8. THEIR COATS DEMAND EXTENSIVE MAINTENANCE.
Ger Dekker, Flickr // CC BY-SA 2.0
While Komondorok don’t require brushing due to their natural dreadlocks, their grooming is far from simple. Owners must meticulously separate the cords to prevent matting. Their coats also attract dirt and debris, necessitating regular baths. Bathing is a lengthy process, and drying the cords takes considerable time. Additionally, trimming around the muzzle is essential to prevent food stains. Without proper care, their heavy coats can develop a musty odor.
9. HUNGARY REGARDS THEM AS A NATIONAL ICON.
Hungary’s most beloved canine, also its largest, is regarded as a national treasure. The country takes great pride in preserving the breed’s standards, vigorously safeguarding them from any alterations.
