Puli

                                             Puli

AKA:Pulik, Hungarian Puli, Hungarian Water Dog
Origin:Hungary
Size:Small/Medium
Ease of training:Low/Medium
Grooming:Medium/High
Shedding:Low
Exercise needed:Daily walks
Energy level:High
Protection:High, guard dog
Good with children:Yes, with older, gentle children
Health clearances:OFA, CERF
Popularity:140/155

Puli Temperament

Very intelligent and quick to learn, the Puli is a lively and spirited animal. These dogs have bags of energy and enthusiasm, and are fun loving, sociable, and sweet natured. He is agile, and has plenty of stamina. However, he can be very stubborn, overly confident, and very demanding, which can make training something of a challenge. This breed is best suited to a confident and assertive owner with experience of dog training and ownership. He is also very quick on his feet, and has an inquisitive nature, which means that his play or exercise area should be safe and secure. This shaggy and lovable creature has a cheerful disposition, and enjoys spending time with his owners - he is not for the inactive, however, as he does need regular exercise.

The Puli gets along well with older, gentle children, as well as with other animals. However, beware his herding instincts, as he will try and herd people and pets into groups. He should also not be trusted around smaller creatures that run around, as his instincts will result in him chasing them. When it comes to strangers the Puli can be a wary dog. Early socialization is recommended with this breed in order to promote a stable temperament. His suspicion does make him an effective watchdog. Although these dogs can be a little naughty and mischievous, as well as extremely lively and demanding, they can make wonderful family pets for those with the time and attention to devote to them - as well as the confidence to handle them!

Puli Appearance

The Puli is a distinctive looking dog with a square, sturdy build, and is medium in size. He always has an eager expression, and often looks as though he is about to do something that he oughtn't. His coat is profuse and forms into cords, which do require extensive grooming. The color of the coat can vary, and includes charcoal, rust black, black, and white. The weight of the Puli is around 28-35 pounds, and the height of these dogs is around 16-17 inches.

Puli Grooming

The good news is that the Puli is a low shedder, so the house proud and those with allergies do not have to worry. However, those with little time for grooming may find that they have bitten off more than they can chew. The corded coat of the Puli requires a lot of attention, although there are a number of options available when it comes to grooming. In order to keep the coat looking good, you will need to separate the cords by hand every few weeks. You will need to bathe him too, and drying can take a whole day. His cords will need to be clipped before they reach the floor. On the other hand, you can keep the cords clipped short to reduce the grooming time for this breed, and some people decide to brush out the cords as soon as they start to form.

Puli Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The Puli is a relatively healthy breed with a life expectancy of around 14-16 years. Some of the health problems to look out for with this breed include cataracts, vWD, HD, and PRA. The parents of the Puli puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

Puli History

Originating from Hungary, the Puli was used to work alongside its cousin, the Komondor, to round up and herd sheep. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1936.