Breed Spotlight: The Puli Dog
What is that funny looking dog with the corded coat? Well, it’s the Puli Dog! This Hungarian dog is prized for its herding ability and unique coat that resembles dreadlocks. Let’s learn more about this notable breed.
Puli Dog Breed History
The Puli is a breed that is thought to have helped the Magyar people during their migration from Central Asia to present-day Hungary. This breed was used to guard and herd livestock. The Magyar people used the Puli, but they also used the much bigger Komondor for guarding sheep or cattle.
The Puli’s size didn’t lend it to defending from wolves or bears. Instead, they would be used at night to wake up the much bigger Komondors, who would have better success against a predator. Though the Puli was known to defend itself as well. Their thick coat would protect them from being bitten.
The Puli was a prized possession of the Hungarian shepherds who could pay up to a year’s salary to obtain one. Though, the Puli fell from favor at the beginning of the 20th century as many shepherds moved to the new intensive farming model that new technology made available. Since they fell out of favor, the breed almost disappeared. It has been revived though due to the efforts of many international breeders throughout the last few decades.
Puli Physical Traits
The Puli’s coat is almost exclusively black. There is some variation with grey or off-white, but most Pulis are black. They are also a medium-sized breed that grows to be about 16 or 17 inches in height and 25 lbs. once they reach maturity.
The unique coat of the Puli is really what attracts most people to the breed. The dog’s hair continues to grow throughout the dog’s life and eventually becomes matted. It takes a skilled groomer to mat the dog’s coat just right, but when done well the Puli’s coat becomes rope-like cords. As the coat keeps growing, it can eventually touch the ground if not shortened.
Health Traits
While Pulis are a very hearty breed, they do have a few noted health complications. Some problem areas to keep your eye on would be:
- Hip or shoulder issues
- Eye disease
- Dental Disease
- Obesity
While the breed is very healthy, they have a tendency to develop hip problems as they age. They also are susceptible to teeth issues if you do not give their teeth the attention they deserve. The Puli is a very active dog, so if you don’t give them enough exercise they can have a tendency to develop obesity.
Grooming
Because this dog has such a unique coat, it does take a bit of special grooming. At about the age of six months, the dog’s fur can begin to mat. Once the mats are formed, they are actually very simple to take care of. All you’ll need is to separate them from each other. The mats should be no thinner than a pencil. You also need to make sure they stay clean, so regular baths are a must. Just be sure to dry them well after baths. A Puli’s coat can take up to two days to dry on its own.
Besides maintaining their coat, you should clean their eyes, ears, and teeth at least each week. Their nails should be trimmed regularly as well.
Temperament
Puli dogs look big and bulky, but under all that hair is an athlete. They are very active and need to be worked daily just like other herding breeds. A Puli without enough exercise can get into a lot of trouble. You might come home to destructive behaviors, or they may start showing shy and nervous behaviors. They do best with running, running with a biker, or even fieldwork. You need to try and give them the kind of exercise they are used to. A Puli who has been taken care of is very friendly. They actually make great dogs for children.
Final Thoughts
The Puli is an overall wonderful breed as long as you can meet their exercise requirements. They are very loyal once you build trust with them. They require a firm but loving hand. If you take your time and grow with a Puli, they can make amazing family dogs.