Very rare and extremely unusual looking, the Puli is the most intense mop you'll ever meet. Seriously, those corded locks make this dog look like she just got to college and discovered Bob Marley. That hair isn't just fashion forward, however — the cords protect this dog from predators and intense weather. These days, though, Pulik (the plural for Puli) are more likely to be on the competitive herding circuit than out in the field with the sheep.
Originally from Hungary going back as far as the ninth century, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 25-35 pounds and lives an average of 10-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Herding group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Herding |
| Origin | Hungary |
| Breed group | Herding |
| Average lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 129 |
| Family | Livestock, herding |
| Date of origin | Middle Ages |
| Original function | Sheep herding |
| Today's function | Herding trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 17 Weight: 25-35 |
| Average size of female | Height: 16 Weight: 25-35 |
| Other name | Hungarianpuli |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Low |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | High tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A PULI'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
They might look silly to some (seriously, watch them run in slo-mo), but this breed makes for tough and intelligent, all-terrain working dogs. They can also be loyal, affectionate, and playful for the experienced dog parent. Pulik remain puppy-like well into their adulthoods. They also have wonderful senses of humor. These dogs will do best if supervised while playing with older children or other pups and are usually not recommended for small children.
WHAT IS PULI BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a very active breed. Pulik like to work. Yours will need plenty of time outside every day, and lots of space to stretch her legs. They're also real homebodies, however. Their alertness and vigor help to ensure that you'll know when strangers come around. These dogs are protective and can be a bit suspicious toward new people.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A PULI?
Pulik are intelligent and very responsive to training. They definitely know their own minds, so you'll need to be patient and consistent with this pup. She'll respond best to treats, praise, and play rewards.
These dogs are serious competitors in tracking, agility, obedience, and herding events. Many also work as therapy dogs.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO PULIK SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Pulik don't shed much, but they are heavy lifters in the grooming department. Their cords will likely need daily untangling and grooming a Puli means individually handling each and every one of her chords. This pup can take days to dry after a bath. Be sure to dry your Puli carefully — otherwise her cords can mildew, which won't look or smell very good.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO PULIK HAVE?
As a breed, Pulik are generally healthy. Some are susceptible to eye disease, hip dysplasia, slipping kneecaps, or spinal degeneration. A few are also deaf. If you have a Puli, be sure to talk with your vet about caring for those eyes. While they have great eyesight, hair in their eyes can cause issues.
