Puli Dog Breed Profile

by Luke Blaise

AKC Group: Herding Group

The Puli dog, is a Hungarian breed has been used to herd sheep for over 1,000 years. It's thick corded coat kept it warm in harsh climates. A smaller version of the Komondor breed. Its coat requires a lot of care.

History

As one of the oldest dogs of Hungary, the Puli dog has been herding flocks for Hungarian Shepherds for 1,000 years. Puli dog's family history was delivered to the country by Magyars and was like the Komondor and Kurvasz at that time. The Puli was almost lost in the seventeenth century because of interbreeding, however the breed was revived in 1912.

Physical Features

The Puli dog is a well-balanced, square appearing, compact dog of medium size. He's active, alert and vigorous.

The shaggy cover which, mixed with his distinctive movement, and light-footedness, has helped him for the intense work of herding flocks in the flatlands of Hungary.

Speed, mixed with soundness of body and mind, is of primary significance for the correct satisfaction of this ages-old task. Essentially, males are 17 inches measured at the withers; bitches, 16 inches. An inch under or over these measurements is okay.

Personality

Naturally a loving, clever and home-loving friend, the Puli is smartly suspicious and is a great watchdog. Extreme shyness or timidity is critical faults.

Common Health Problems

This dog is an extremely hardy breed. All reliable breeders will check their stock for hip dysplasia and definitely will eye test them, though there aren't any major health issues known in the Puli breed.

Return to: Complete AKC Dog Breed List

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