Puli At a Glance
Country of Origin:
Hungary
Breed Group:
AKC (Herding); ANKC (Working); CKC (Herding); FCI (Sheepdogs); KC (Pastoral); UKC (Herding)
Size:
Medium. Weight: Males 28–33 lbs; Females 22–28.5 lbs Height: Males 15.5–18 inches; Females 14–16.5 inches
Coat:
Fully-corded
Color:
Solid Black, Rusty Black, All Gray shades, White, Apricot
Life Span:
12 to 14 years
Breed Profile
Affection Level
Barking Tendencies
Cat Friendly
Cold Weather Tolerance
Exercise Needs
General Health
Grooming Needs
Hot Weather Tolerance
Intelligence
Kid Friendly
Playfulness
Shedding Level
Social Needs
Watchdog Ability
Did You Know?
The plural term for Puli is Pulik.
Puli Overview
As Hungary was invaded by Magyars a few thousand years ago, they brought along their shepherding dogs. These dogs then developed into three breeds, the Puli, the Komondor and the Kuvasz. Pulis were smaller and more agile, used for herding and droving. His unique coat also helped him to avoid predators, kicks from livestock and the elements.
Puli Characteristics
This dog breed is most well-known for his wavy and sometimes corded coat. This natural coat, similar to that of the Komondor, helps to protect the Puli while herding. The coat also helps the breed to blend in with their livestock, confusing predators. He is a happy, mop-headed dog whose look helps add to his popularity.
Puli Temperament
They are tough and focused on their jobs. They are a sometimes suspicious and watchful breed, something needed when guarding livestock. They also do well to protect their family and home. Often times their eyes are covered by his coat, hiding one of his most loved traits, loving, affectionate and devoted eyes.
Puli Care
They live on average 12 to 14 years, typical for a medium sized breed. A few breed health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, luxating patellas, progressive retinal atrophy and Von Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder.
Puli Coat
Their coat becomes extremely easy to maintain once it is fully corded. The cords only need separation on occasion to help keep them from tangling and matting. Some owners however, opt to keep the dog’s “puppy” style coat, keeping the hair trimmed short and wavy, instead of letting it cord. This requires much more intensive grooming as well as trips to a professional groomer.
Puli Training
As a herding breed, he is a quick and eager learner. They do well with positive reinforcement training and will happily pick up any tasks given to them. They also excel in dog-sports such as herding trials and agility.
Puli Activity
They are a working breed, and as such has the stamina to keep active all day. A daily job that keeps him busy, or long hikes and off-leash playtime are necessary to keeping him active and happy. Enrolling him in dog related sports will also help keep him mentally fit in addition to physically fit.
