Puli Dog Breed - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin
The Puli is an old Hungarian herding dog breed, but most likely, they have origin in Asia and the Puli ancestors first came to Hungary more than 1000 years ago when Magyars migrated from Central Asia. Magyars lived as nomads on stock breeding and Puli was used as a herder and guard.
2) Worker
The pulik, which is a plural form of Puli, were used as energetic and skilled sheepdogs. Most often they worked together with larger Hungarian dogs, like Komondor or Kuvasz. Typically the Komondor would guard the flock at night and the Puli would herd and watch over the flock during the day. When the Puli saw incoming danger, like incoming wolves or bears, they would start barking to alert the pack and to let the Komondor or Kuvasz know. Than the larger dogs would deter the intruders. But even group of Pulik could deter wolves on their own, especially thanks to their thick coat that protect them from bites.

3) Rare breed
Back in the days, Puli was quite popular in Hungary. That changed around 1800s when need for sheep dogs began to diminish, along with their numbers. They almost became extinct in the beginning of the 20th century, but they were saved by Dr. Emil Raitsits. World War II was also devastating for the breed and for all Hungary, but the Puli survived and became household companions. The Puli is not on verge of extinction these days, but it is considered as a rare breed, especially outside Hungary.

4) Companions
The Puli is a great companion. They are very sensitive, highly intelligent and they love children. They are also quite protective over the kids and the whole family. They do have herding instincts, so sometimes they can try to herd other animals, but they can live with them, especially when they are raised together from the puppyhood. Overall, this is a great faithful family companion.

5) Coat
The hallmark of this breed is definitely the unique long and dense coat that hangs down in long corded strands, which is a result of a controlled matting process. The cords are woolly, varying in shape and thickness, either flat or round. Most common color is solid black, but you can also find Puli in white and all shades of grey. A fully corded and grown coat can weigh up to seven pounds, which is 3 kg.

6) Size
The Puli, thanks to the corded coat, looks larger than it actually is. The average height is between 16-17 inch which is 40-44 cm and weight is typically between 25-35 pounds, which is 11-16 kg. Females are little bit smaller than males.

7) Training
The Puli is extremely smart dog. They had to be, so they can succesfully herd the flock on their own. But the training is not extremely easy, because they are also independent, stubborn and strong willed. This is why patient and firm training is required to raise an obedient Puli.

8) Exercise
This is highly energetic dog that was used to actively work for long hours. Today, if you are not using this breed for working purposes, you will have to properly exercise them every single day. They love running, hiking, field work or interactive playtime. Without proper exercise, the Puli will become mischevious and they can develop some unwanted behaviour, like destruction. This is a great adept for various dog sports like agility, rally, flyball, tracking or of course, herding events.

9) Long puppyhood
The Puli is known for being puppyish for a long time, well into their older years. They will stay very playful and active dogs with great sense of humour for a long time. This is great, but you should be prepared for that.

10) Grooming
The Puli is low to no shedding dog, but that does not mean that the grooming is easy. Quite the opposite. You must take proper care about their corded coat. they do not get brushed like most other dog breeds. Instead of untangling the fur with a brush, you should first wet the coat with water, and next use your hands to separate and twirl the strands into cords. Just like with all dogs you should regularly check their eyes, ears and nails to clip them or clean them if needed.