Family:
Breed Group: Herding, AKC Herding
Origin: Hungary
Date of Origin: 10th century
Originally used for: Herding, guarding
Used today: Herding, guarding, companion
Other Name(s): Hungarian Puli, Hungarian Water Dog
History of the Breed: The Puli is a very old breed that likely descended from the Tibetan Terrier. Used as a herding and guard dog
for livestock for more than 1,000 years. Introduced into Hungary by the migration of the Magyars who were livestock nomads from central Asia.
The Puli breed was nearly lost as a result of extensive crossings with other breeds.
In 1912, Emil Raitsits began a program to reconstitute the Puli.
The first standard for the Puli was written in 1915 and approved by the FCI in 1934. The AKC registered the breed in 1936.
General Appearance: A medium sized breed with a square build and a head that appears round because of the profuse coat.
The medium sized dark eyes are almond shaped and deep set. The medium sized, V-shaped ears have rounded tips.
The muzzle is a third of the head length ending in a small black nose.
The chest is broad and deep with well sprung ribs. The loin is short, strong and moderately tucked up. The tail is carried
over the back and appears to blend into the backline. The body is covered in cords that are made from the undercoat and topcoat
blending together. The cords become more significant in length with age.
Height & Weight:
Height 16-17 Inches
Weight 25-35 Pounds
Coat: A double coat that is weather resistant. The undercoat is soft, wooly and dense and the outer coat is wavy or curly.
The under and outer coats clump together and form cords in the adult. These wooly cords are flat or round based on the coat texture.
The coat can reach the ground in length based on the dog's age.
Color: Solid rusty black, black, fawn, with a distinct black mask, gray, and white.
Grooming needs: High, frequent bathing for odor and weekly brushing.
Temperament of Breed: A lively, easy to train dog that loves children
Friendly with children: Yes, but may try to herd them
Friendly with other dogs: Yes, with proper socialization starting at an early age. They will try and herd other dogs and pets.
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: Very energetic, the Puli needs daily vigorous exercise. This breed is not suited for hot climates.
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, PRA -progressive retinal atrophy, retinal dysplasia
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 12-15 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 140
First Registered by the AKC: 1936
Registries: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Puli Club of America
Hungaria Puli Klub