3 Extraordinary Looking Dog Breeds with Unique Corded Coats

Many dog breeds are known for their lovely appearances—some are adorable and cute, others are strikingly handsome. However, few can stop people in their tracks like those with truly extraordinary coats. This article highlights three distinctive breeds recognised for their unique corded coats, which resemble woolly sheep, making them truly stand out.

The Hungarian Puli

The Hungarian Puli is famed for its dense, corded coat that forms naturally as thick, woolly cords, providing well-earned protection from harsh weather. Originally prized as a reliable herding dog in the mountainous regions of Hungary, the Puli’s coat serves as a defence against cold and wet environments. Despite their spectacular appearance, Pulik are known for being kind, gentle, and fun-loving companions who show fierce loyalty to their owners. However, they may be reserved with strangers until they get to know them well.

These dogs are compact, with males standing around 40 to 44 cm tall and females slightly shorter. Males typically weigh between 13 to 15 kg, with females lighter. Although their thick cords may mask their physique, Pulik are sturdy and muscular. Their coat comes in various colours ranging from black to white, with many shades in between.

The Komondor

The Komondor is another Hungarian breed renowned for its impressive white corded coat. Like the Puli, its cords serve as excellent protection from the elements, especially important for a livestock guardian often working outdoors in challenging conditions. The Komondor’s coat blends with sheep’s wool, aiding its protective role.

Larger than the Puli, male Komondors typically stand 65 to 80 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh 50 to 61 kg, while females are slightly smaller and lighter. Beneath its long cords, the Komondor is a strong, well-muscled dog with a large head relative to its body. Puppies are born with soft curls that mature into thick cords over time, which are longest on the rump, loin, and tail and shorter elsewhere to define the dog's shape. Their outer coat is wavy or curly with a soft undercoat, providing both harshness and softness as appropriate for protection and comfort.

The Bergamasco

Originating in northern Italy, the Bergamasco is distinguished by its dense and loose mats and cords hanging along its flanks, offering solid protection and a unique appearance. Historically prized for herding and loyalty, this breed is becoming more popular in the UK among experienced owners aware of its particular grooming and care needs.

The Bergamasco is well-built, muscular, and of moderate size. Males stand around 60 cm at the shoulder and weigh between 32 to 38 kg, with females less tall and lighter. The cords on the coat differ in texture, being softer on the head and legs while harsher across the body, adding to their protective layering. Its undercoat is short, dense, and combined with a greasy-feeling top coat to shield from weather. This breed comes in a range of colours from black through grey to fawn, with some having white patches.

Responsible Ownership and Care for Corded Coated Breeds

Owning any of these extraordinary breeds means committing to regular grooming to maintain healthy, mat-free cords. Their coats do not shed as typical dog hair does, but instead require expert care to prevent matting, which can cause discomfort and skin issues. These breeds need socialisation, regular exercise, and mental engagement to thrive. Potential owners should seek out reputable breeders or adoption centres to provide a well-socialised, healthy puppy raised ethically.

Choosing one of these unique breeds is rewarding, offering not only a striking companion but also a dog with a rich history and strong character. Their cords and mats aren’t just for show—they serve practical purposes, protecting them from weather and harsh environments where they were originally bred to work.

When looking to find a Hungarian Puli puppy, Komondor, or Bergamasco, ensure you understand their care requirements to give your new pet the best life possible.