Puli Breed Information
Breed Group: Herding
Weight: 25-35 lbs
Height: Male: 17; Female: 16 inches
Color(s): solid black, rusty black, gray, and white
Overview
The Puli, also known as the Pulik crossed the plains into Hungary with the Magyards a few thousand years ago when they were commonly used as sheep dogs. The Puli was used mainly for driving and herding flocks, while the larger Hungarian breed, the Komondor, was used as a guardian for flocks. Many shepherds preferred the Puli, as they stood out easier among the flock, while the Komondor was used to blend in.
Character
The Puli surprisingly makes a very good watchdog, as they are very protective of their master and territory. This is a very intelligent breed making him fairly easy to train. This breed does very well in obedience and agility and is a favorite in the show ring. His light and agile movement give this breed an advantage when it comes to guarding flocks of sheep.
Temperament
Happy, cheerful, and devoted, this dog does very well in a home environment, however is not recommended for a home with small children. The Puli can do well with other animals if they are properly socialized at puppyhood, but should not be trusted around smaller and more passive animals. If children are taught how to handle a dog properly, this breed can do well providing the children do not pester or pull on the long cords of hair.
Care
The Puli has a strange and unique coat making grooming for this breed a learned technique for the inexperienced. Professional grooming in the beginning should be required. After bathing, drying of the coat can be a task. Blow-drying with cold air works best. Brushing is not required, as the Puli should always have naturally formed cords.
Coat
The Puli has a very unique coat. The coat is fairly weather resistant and is dense and profuse. The outer coat should be wavy or curly, while the undercoat is soft and wooly. In an adult Puli, the coat should form cords naturally and never be man made. The coat should never be clipped, always natural.
Training
Pulis are very intelligent and are eager to please making them fairly easy to train. With a firm and consistent hand, this breed can do amazingly well in obedience and agility. Obedience classes for this breed are recommended at an early age, however training can be taken upon the owner if they are experienced.
Activity
The Puli should have regular exercise, as they love to play and roam free, however should always be in a fenced in yard. An average sized yard works best for this energetic breed. They love to jog with their owners, and does very well running along side a bike. The Puli enjoys hikes, however the coat should be protected.