Komondor hunting dog: description, maintenance, and photos of the breed

A large dog with a unique appearance, the Komondor is a renowned shepherd. The breed's name reflects the animal's socialization and behavior. Its thick, massive coat, which forms distinctive braids, serves as camouflage.

The breed is low-maintenance, but does require attention. Although Komondors are most often used as guard dogs, they adapt well to family life.

Hungarian Shepherd: photos and breed description

The majestic posture, size, serene, proud calm and sonorous bark of the dog inspire awe at first sight. But warm dark eyes and an inquisitive look First impressions change quickly. Komandras are loving creatures and are very gentle with children.

A strong-boned dog weighing 50–60 kg (110–130 lbs) has an average height of up to 80 cm (32 in) at the withers. Females are 10 cm shorter and weigh between 36 kg (86–110 lbs). The breed standards include:

1. Strong build, and a powerful, muscular body.
2. Tight stomach and wide chest.
3. Medium length muscular neck.
4. Powerful forelimbs with vertical contours. Large paws feature arched toes, hard, gray pads, and black claws.
5. The hind limbs have well-developed muscles and strong bones. They have a straight silhouette and paws with clearly defined joints.
6. A slightly short head with a large forehead and almond-shaped eyes. According to international standards, the eyes must be brown. A dog with blue eyes may be disqualified at a show.
7. Rough, non-pointed muzzle with a straight silhouette.
8. The ears are medium sized and hanging.
9. Gray lips, dark gums and a straight bite.

The Komondor's dense, thick coat protects the dog from the cold. Curls form on its coat from an early age. In puppies The fur is soft, and in adult dogs it has stiff "strands" that resemble felt.The hair around the eyes and on the limbs is softer and more docile, while it is longer on the back and tail. Silky hair can be a disqualification in competitions. Hungarian Shepherds' coat grows throughout their lives. By old age, it consists of approximately 2,000 cords, reaches the ground, and weighs approximately 7 kg.

The Commander's character

Despite its fighting spirit and hunting nature, the Hungarian Shepherd is an "eternal puppy." Only by the age of three the dog acquires basic character traits and adult temperamentIn the first years of life, the breed is characterized by "childish" behavior, increased trust and playfulness.

When choosing a pet for your family, keep in mind that German Shepherds fall into two personality types. They can be either dependent on human influence or freedom-loving. Therefore, a breeder who knows each puppy's personality well should recommend a suitable pet for a specific family.

Komondors are solid and calm dogs that are able to quickly learn new skills. have good obedience and obey commands. However, at the right moment, the pet can make its own decision. If it senses danger, it will attack quickly and swiftly.

Hungarian Shepherds are wary of new people. It's best not to leave them alone with unfamiliar guests. While they behave appropriately with their owner, they may become aggressive when left alone with a stranger.

In a calm environment, the dog is calm and friendly. It is distinguished by its resourcefulness, well-developed intelligence, and fierce devotion to its owner. However, If the commander relaxes his discipline, he will try to force all family members to follow his rules. and exhibit stubbornness. Therefore, this breed needs to be trained and nurtured from puppyhood, immediately showing it who's boss.

From an early age, shepherds need to be accustomed to communicating with other people and animals, otherwise they will behave aggressively towards others. Commanders love children, so they selflessly protect them in any situation and courageously tolerate the pranks and games of children. They also get along well with other family pets. They are indifferent to other children and animals.

Training the Commander

Hungarian Shepherds are highly trainable. Their high intelligence allows them to quickly respond to environmental factors and absorb information well. When training your pet, you need to diversify your commands., since a dog that loves everything new begins to get bored with the same type of training and refuses to follow commands.

Komondor training should be done through play, using the "carrot" method. Aggressive training can lead to aggression and the development of bitterness in the pet. Females are the most docile and obedient during training, while males are known for their stubborn nature.

Care Features

When caring for a Hungarian guard dog, special attention must be paid to its coat. It does not require brushing, so as the hair grows, separate it by hand. The commander is not afraid of shedding, because the hair that falls out of the follicle remains in the cord. Young dogs shed a small amount of hair in the spring and fall.

In addition, the special aspects of pet care include:

1. Bathing. German Shepherds require regular bathing with special dog shampoos. Regular gel or soap is not recommended for washing Komondors.
2. Paws. After walks, check your dog's paws for splinters or scratches. Because they're covered in fur, a wound might go unnoticed, potentially causing it to fester.
3. Ears. Your pet's floppy ears require regular cleaning with a special product recommended by a professional.
4. Coat. Regularly, and especially after walks in parks and forests, the breed's coat should be checked for parasites. If ticks or fleas are found, use special sprays or drops.

The Commander's Nutrition

The large Hungarian Shepherd is a light eater. It can be fed both natural and dry food. Regarding nutrition Commanders are unpretentious and happily eat meat, vegetables, and fruits and porridge. Adult pets need to be fed twice a day. The number of feedings for puppies depends on their age:

1. Up to one and a half months, young dogs should be fed 5 times a day.
2. From one and a half months to six months – 4 times a day.
3. From six months to one year – 3 times a day.

It is better to feed puppies with specialized foods that can provide the growing body with the necessary minerals and vitamins.

If The diet of an adult commander will consist of natural products, then you should know what you should not feed this breed:

1. Bones can damage your pet's teeth, so it's best to avoid them. To sharpen your dog's teeth, special bones are available at pet stores.
2. Dogs' stomachs don't digest fatty meats well, so pork is not recommended. Shepherds are fed chicken or beef.
3. The breed's body does not digest lactose, therefore, the only dairy products that can be given to the pet are cheese and cottage cheese.
4. Treats like chocolate can lead to intestinal problems. They can easily be replaced with various special treats from a pet store.

If the commander eats dry food, he will lose approximately one kilogram per day. Don't forget to give your pet clean water., which should always be freely accessible to him.

This sweet and friendly shepherd with a funny look is constantly active and has a playful personality. But to ensure she understands her owner perfectly and becomes a true friend, she needs should be given attention and nurtured from an early ageWhen choosing a pet, keep in mind that keeping a Komondor in an apartment is problematic. However, in a house, this hunting dog will be an ideal family member.