Dogs with dreadlocks. What breeds exist?

Dogs with dreadlocks? It’s not a joke! In fact, there are dog breeds with such unusual coats. This makes them not very popular because their hair is not easy to care for. However, they look fantastic!
Dreadlocks on dogs are unique and extremely rare. They are essentially found only in two breeds – the Puli and the Komondor.

Komondor: General Information

Dogs with dreadlocks of the Komondor breed, according to the FCI classification, belong to the group of shepherd and herding dogs. This is a Hungarian breed, though it is not subject to working trials. It’s impossible to say for sure where the name “Komondor” originated, but it has been used since 1544. In written sources from that period, the dog is mentioned as a guardian of cattle and sheep. Documented breeding of this breed began in Hungary in 1910. Another name for it is the Hungarian Sheepdog.

Komondor: Historical Overview

These dreadlocked dogs come from Asia, where their ancestors arrived with nomads who migrated to the Carpathian region with their herds. The ancestors of the modern Komondor lived almost unchanged for about 500, or even 800, years.

The appearance of this breed was shaped by the functions the dogs performed, the climate, and the conditions of the Hungarian Puszta and the Carpathians. The dogs’ dreadlocks were created to protect them from harsh weather conditions, and they also served as armor – protecting them from the teeth and claws of predators like wolves, lynxes, and bears. These dogs worked as shepherds and protectors of herds of livestock, sheep, and cattle. The Komondor withstands temperatures as high as 30°C and as low as -30°C. The dogs’ dreadlocks also allow them to blend in with the flock of sheep and absorb their natural scent. As a result, attacking wolves or other predators can’t sense the presence of the dog, which in turn makes it more effective at guarding the herd.




For centuries, the Komondor has successfully served Hungarian, Turkish, and Asian shepherds, always remaining a loyal and reliable friend, helper, and protector. These peculiar dogs with dreadlocks are proven, insightful, and vigilant guardians, and to this day, they work successfully on farms.
The breed’s father is considered to be Hungarian cynologist Dr. Andor Reitzitz, who bred Komondors after World War I and developed the first breed standard in 1921. The FCI officially recognized the breed 15 years later (1925), assigning it the number 53.

Komondor: Appearance

Komondors are the quintessential dogs with dreadlocks. Their fur is very similar to that of the Puli. The hair is twisted into felted, fairly thick cords that form dreadlocks. This type of coat provides excellent insulation. The Komondor is quite a large dog, weighing between 49-52 kg for both sexes. The height at the withers is about 80 cm for males and around 70 cm for females.
Until the mid-1960s, the breed standard allowed two types of coats: corded and lobe-like, but over time, the lobe-like coat was eliminated. It turned out that the flat dreadlocks fell out easily due to their own weight. Moreover, lobe-like coats result from neglect and are only seen in non-working dogs. Therefore, only well-maintained corded hair is currently allowed and encouraged. The dreadlocks should be the same thickness along their entire length.

Komondor: Behavior and Character

This breed has a complex character, including a tendency toward dominance and poor submission to inexperienced people. As a sheepdog originally used to guard cattle and sheep, the Komondor is also distrustful and fierce toward strangers, though it doesn’t usually show unwarranted aggression. Interestingly, as a natural flock guardian, the Komondor doesn’t need training for this – it still has a strong territorial instinct. It’s also very independent, brave, confident, and a silent home guardian, attacking without growling or barking. These dogs are more active at night and prefer to vigilantly rest during the day, often napping in the center of their territory.
However, the Komondor enjoys interacting with its owner and family, as well as with other animals in the house.

Komondor: Health and Care

The dreadlocks of this breed don’t require brushing – just occasional separation from the skin. The formation of the dreadlocks in Komondor puppies starts at around 8-9 months. At that time, owners need to help a little with the formation of individual cords. But you only need to divide the dreadlocks on the back and croup, as they will form naturally on other parts of the body. Komondors don’t need frequent bathing due to their abundant coat. However, drying them is especially troublesome – the process can take an entire day. The hair shouldn’t be left damp and must be blow-dried. Air drying can take days, causing discomfort or illness for the dog. Fortunately, they don’t shed at all. Interestingly, even the heaviest rain won’t soak their oily coat.

Puli: General Information

Who’s the second dog with dreadlocks? The Puli, also known as the Hungarian Sheepdog or Hungarian Puli. This breed is also included in the group of herding and shepherd dogs. The Puli is a Hungarian breed without working trials.

Puli: Historical Overview

This breed is very similar to the Komondor. It is also an ancient herding dog with Asian roots, which eventually developed in Hungary as a herding and guard dog. However, the Puli is an even older breed. Its ancestors lived in Mesopotamia around 2300 BC.

These semi-wild dreadlocked dogs were used from the very beginning to guard herds and property. They also accompanied nomads traveling through Asia and Western Europe around 1200 BC. In China, they were called “Puli Hau” and “Hun destroyers.”
The Huns invaded ancient Rome in the 5th century AD, and during their travels, they brought the Puli to the Danube region, where it interbred with local Germanic dogs like the Beauceron and Briard, forming the modern Puli.

Puli: Appearance

These dogs are much smaller and lighter than the Komondor. They are square-shaped, medium-sized, and muscular. Male dogs weigh 13-15 kg, while females weigh 10-13 kg.
The Puli is known for its dense coat, which forms tight cords and patches similar to the Komondor’s coat.

Puli: Behavior and Character

The Puli has a more agreeable character than the Komondor. They are energetic, smart, and always ready to learn. Despite their smaller size, they are also very confident and ready to protect their owner from danger. Pulis need close contact with people, responsible training, and regular activity to avoid boredom. If neglected, they can become withdrawn, destructive, or overly barky.