PREDATOR CONTROL

In Hungary, the Komondor is hardly ever seen in cities. Considered to be the chief of the herdsman's dogs, the Komondor is used to protect the herdsman and his animals. Recently, there has been considerable interest in the use of the Komondor as a livestock guardian among cattle, sheep and goat ranchers in the United States.

Federally-funded projects have been established to study the use of livestock guard dogs for predator control and have found the dogs to be successful under certain circumstances. With increasing interest in re-establishing the wolf in the Western United States, more livestock ranchers will no doubt be looking to the Komondor and other guardian dogs to protect their assets. Komondors are well suited for the task of predator control (both two and four legged kind). The white coat allows the dog to mingle unnoticed among the sheep while allowing the shepherd to see him at night. Also the coat acts as a protective barrier from the harsh weather and jaws of an attacking animal. The cords both insulate and cool. They are open to the skin so that they allow air to pass through, yet the density and length of the cords protect he animal underneath. In the U.S., Komondors have been effectively used to fend off coyotes and bobcats.

Even in livestock guarding situations, however, Komondors must be trained to know the owners rules. Many a Komondor who works well with the sheep cannot be taken to the vet when the need arises. All dogs must be trained to be handled by the owner and strangers when necessary. The Komondor Club of America has a committee dedicated to the education and assistance of the rancher. For more information about the Predator Control Committee, contact the Secretary.