Child-friendly
Energy level
Experience
Coat care
Shedding
Facts and Information
The Puli is a unique and ancient herding breed known for its distinctive corded coat and lively personality. Originally from Hungary, this medium-sized dog was bred to herd livestock and is still valued for its agility, intelligence, and protective nature. The Puli’s dreadlock-like coat not only gives it a striking appearance but also serves as protection against harsh weather and predators.
Despite its small stature, the Puli is an energetic and hardworking dog with a strong bond to its family. It thrives in an active home where it can be both physically and mentally engaged.
Temperament
The Puli is a highly intelligent, alert, and affectionate dog that forms strong connections with its family. It is known for its playful and lively nature, always eager to interact and engage in activities. However, the breed also has a protective instinct, making it an excellent watchdog.
While the Puli is affectionate with its family, it can be reserved around strangers. Proper socialization from an early age helps ensure they remain friendly and well-adjusted. They are naturally independent but enjoy being part of family life and do not like being left alone for long periods.
Due to their strong herding instincts, they may try to herd children, other pets, or even adults by circling or nudging them. This behavior is harmless but should be managed through training.
Activity Level
The Puli is an extremely energetic and agile breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Originally bred to herd flocks all day, they still have a high endurance level and thrive in active environments.
Daily long walks, playtime, and training sessions are essential to keep a Puli happy. They excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials, where their intelligence and quick reflexes shine. Without sufficient activity, a Puli may become bored and develop destructive behaviors.
This breed is best suited for an active family or owner who enjoys outdoor activities and can provide a stimulating environment.
Coat Care
One of the Puli’s most distinctive features is its corded coat, which naturally forms into woolly dreadlocks as the dog matures. While their coat does not require brushing like other breeds, it does demand regular maintenance to keep it clean and properly separated.
- Cord Formation: The coat begins to form cords at around 6–12 months old. Owners must carefully separate the hair into even cords to prevent matting.
- Cleaning: Their thick coat traps dirt easily, so regular baths are necessary, though drying can take hours due to the density of their fur.
- Shedding: The Puli hardly sheds, as the hair stays in the cords rather than falling out. This makes them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
- Trimming: Some owners choose to trim the coat shorter for easier maintenance, though this alters the breed’s iconic look.
Despite the effort required to maintain their coat, many Puli owners appreciate the breed’s low shedding and natural weather resistance.
Training
The Puli is highly intelligent and quick to learn but also independent and strong-willed. Training should start early and be firm, consistent, and positive to prevent stubborn behavior.
- Obedience Training: Teaching basic commands early on is essential, as they can be headstrong.
- Socialization: Introducing them to different people, animals, and environments helps prevent them from becoming overly protective.
- Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, obedience games, and agility training keep their minds sharp and engaged.
- Herding Instincts: Since they naturally try to herd, structured activities like herding trials or agility courses provide an excellent outlet for their instincts.
Pulis respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise. Harsh training techniques can make them resistant and uncooperative.
Size and Weight
The Puli is a medium-sized, athletic dog, well-proportioned and built for agility.
- Height:
- Males: 41–46 cm (16–18 inches)
- Females: 36–41 cm (14–16 inches)
- Weight:
- Males: 13–15 kg (28–33 lbs)
- Females: 10–13 kg (22–28 lbs)
Despite their small frame, their dense coat makes them appear much larger than they actually are.
Special Traits of the Breed
- Corded Coat: The Puli’s coat naturally forms into long, woolly cords, giving it a one-of-a-kind appearance.
- Extreme Agility: This breed is fast and light-footed, capable of making quick turns and jumps with ease.
- Natural Herding Instincts: Even as pets, many Pulis will instinctively herd people and animals.
- Highly Vocal: Pulis can be barkers, especially when alerting their owners to strangers.
- Excellent Swimmers: Despite their heavy coat, many Pulis love water and are surprisingly good swimmers.
Inherited Diseases
The Puli is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, it is prone to certain genetic conditions, including:
- Hip Dysplasia – A common joint problem in many breeds.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – A genetic eye disease that can cause blindness.
- Degenerative Myelopathy – A neurological disorder that affects mobility.
- Patellar Luxation – A condition where the kneecap moves out of place.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and exercise can help minimize the risk of these conditions.
Diet
The Puli requires a nutrient-rich diet to maintain its high energy levels and coat health. Their diet should include:
- High-quality protein (chicken, fish, beef) to support muscle maintenance.
- Healthy fats (fish oil, flaxseed) to keep their coat shiny and skin healthy.
- Complex carbohydrates (brown rice, sweet potatoes) for sustained energy.
- Joint-supporting nutrients (glucosamine and chondroitin) to maintain mobility.
Portion control is essential, as overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can strain their joints.
Dog Type
The Puli is part of the Herding Group, originally bred to work on farms by herding sheep and other livestock. Their intelligence, agility, and problem-solving abilities make them excellent working dogs, even today.
They are happiest when they have a task to perform, whether it’s herding, obedience training, or playing interactive games.
5 Facts About the Puli
- Centuries-old Breed – The Puli has been herding in Hungary for over 1,000 years.
- Einstein of the Dog World – Pulis are extremely intelligent and quick learners.
- Water-Resistant Coat – Their thick, corded fur repels water, keeping them warm and dry.
- Light on Their Feet – They have a springy gait, making them excellent jumpers and runners.
- Royal Recognition – A Puli named “Beast” belongs to Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder of Facebook!
