Komondor
At first glance, the Komodor and the Puli dogs might look the same and both might attract attention due to their unique looks.
Both the Komodor and the Puli dog are breeds that originated in Hungary. Historically, both types of dog were working dogs whose primarily duty was to protect, safeguard, and herd the flock or livestock of a Hungarian farmer or shepherd. These dogs were well-loved and considered indispensible in the farm.
A great distinguishing factor of both breeds is their unique look, which consist of a coiled, wavy coat that looks like dreadlocks. The dogs’ coat protects the animals from hot and cold weather, dangerous vegetation, as well as enemies and predators. Their coats are waterproof and have little or no shedding. The coat can be a problem in terms of grooming. Bathing a Komodor or Puli is a task. Dying the animal is also time-consuming because the individual cords must be dried properly to prevent mildew. Baths should only be given in times of necessity, and the coat should never be brushed or combed. The individual cords must be separated by hand.
The coat of a Komodor is always white, but Pulik (the plural form of Puli) can have white, black, or gray coats. The black coat is usually the best for hiding dirt, while the white coat of the Komodor allows the animal to blend in with the sheep, a camoflouge ability from its herding days. Beyond the color of the coat, Komodor and Puli also differ in size. Everything about the Komodor is larger and more massive, while the Puli is smaller in comparison. The weight of a Komodor is usually 130 pounds, while the Puli only weighs about 25–30 pounds. The Puli is also shorter by a foot than the Komodor. The Puli’s smaller frame makes it more manageable in the grooming department.
As mentioned, the Puli and the Komodor used to work together to guard and herd livestock. The Puli would serve as the herd dog during the day and the Komdor would take the nightshift. In case of large predators near the pack, the Puli often required the help of the larger Komodor for both offense and defense.
Puli dog
Both dogs have similar and different traits. They share the following characteristics: protective, gentle, loyal, obedient, devoted, sensitive, loving, headstrong, tough, reliable, love of the outdoors and exercise, stubborn, independent, energetic and determined. The following traits are exclusive to the Komodor: laziness (because it had to recover sleep from the previous night’s shift), predator control, serious, confident, commanding, territorial, aggressive, wilful, smart, respectful, easily bored, and quick to start fights with other dogs. On the other hand, the Puli has its own traits like being quick, agile, intelligent, playful, calm, and lacking of aggression.
Both Komodor and Puli are great as family pets because they will protect the family and the home. They both can live from 10 to 12 years. Both breeds can have a litter of 3 puppies and can adapt to different climates.
Both the Komodor and the Puli can have hip dysplasia. In addition, the Puli can have eye inflammation because its hair covers its eyes.
Summary
- The Komodor is larger than the Puli. On the other hand, the Puli can have a variety of coats—black, white, and gray—compared to the Komodor’s white coat.
- As herding and guard dogs, the Puli takes the day shift while the Komodor is only on standby to help with predators. At night, the Komodor does the guarding.
- The Komodor is heavier and taller than to the Puli.
The Puli’s energetic and playful behavior is a foil for the Komodor’s commanding, aggressive, and serious demeanour.