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The
most striking and unusual aspect of the Komondor is the coat, and because it is so unusual
Komondor owners seem to have more problems with coat care than anything else. The
Komondor's puppy coat is fluffy and curly, with a tendency to fall into curly ringlets. At
about 8 or 10 months of age, the coat begins to shed and mat. This
matting is the beginning of the cording process. The larger mats must be torn apart into
smaller mats (the cords), which is a simple procedure, although it can be physically
demanding and time consuming if the mats are really tight and large. Once formed, the
cords will lengthen with age, eventually reaching the ground if not cut.The Komondor sheds
his undercoat twice a year like all dogs do, and the softer undercoat binds together with
the long, strong outer coat, lengthening the cords from the skin out.
The cords will have to be separated again each time the coat goes through this stage, as
they will tend to mat together near the skin. This is not difficult once the cords are
established, requiring a few hours of work each year. To many people the cords resemble
the strings of a mop or spaghetti, and many Koms have names which play on this resemblance
(Mop or Pasta, for example). Other than separating the cords twice a year and bathing the
dog, there is not much special grooming required. The hair must be plucked from the ear
canal, as with all long-haired breeds, and the hair kept trimmed from the bottoms of the
feet. Many pet Komondor owners keep the cords trimmed to a length of 8 or 10 inches. This
looks nice and is easier to care for than a floor length coat. The dogs also may be
sheared 2 or 3 times a year, if desired. Either way, the Komondor should be a handsome,
well-cared-for looking dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if this breed is really the best for me?
We strongly suggest that anyone who is thinking of getting a Komondor should make every
effort to see some adult Komondors in their homes before making a final decision. The
Komondor Club of America (KCA) or Middle Atlantic States Komondor Club
(MASKC) will assist you in locating owners of Komondors in your part of the country
(or in other countries in many cases). Many Komondor owners are willing to let you visit
with their dogs and will explain what it is like living with this unusual breed. The
reason that we feel this is so important is that Komondor puppies, with their
(Next Page)
Komondor
Origins and History
Breed Characteristics
Komondor Temperament
Komondor Grooming
Frequently Asked Questions
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