Komondor

Probably descended from Asian breeds, it would have been brought over a thousand years ago by Magyar tribes to the plains of Hungary. The Komondor originally provided protection for flocks against predators (wolves and bears). Indeed, its long thick and curly coat proved to be an effective protection against the fangs and claws of these natural flock predators. The name "Komondor" probably comes from gumandur, formed from the suffix -dur of Turkic languages and the name of the Kumans, a now-extinct people of nomadic riders from Central Asia who settled in Hungary in the 13th century. In 2011, under the government of Viktor Orbán, Hungary adopted a dog tax from which the Komondor is exempt on the grounds of being "of Hungarian breed," in the sense of Greater Hungary, although it is known to be responsible for a large number of bites.

Outside the flock, it retains this protective instinct, becomes strongly attached to its owner and watches over a property. It quickly becomes aware of the limits of its environment, and always finds the right place to monitor effectively while resting. It rests often but knows how to be lively and playful. It needs space and cannot be happy in an apartment. Of powerful build, flinching at nothing, it deters simply by its impressive presence and its deep, dissuasive growl. Intelligent, it quickly recognizes those close to its owner and knows how to greet them warmly. Children are often impressed by the dog's size on first contact, but the Komondor knows how to become accepted and appreciated. It loves children and protects them. The owner must truly be master of their dog in every sense of the term. The Komondor is a dog that is trained and socialized from birth. This work is begun by the breeder and must be taken over by every new owner. The male is a dog that reaches 80 kilos, the female 60; they are confident and of impressive power. The Komondor looks like a large sheep with its wool meticulously unfrizzed. It should not be confused with the Puli, which is smaller in size.