Puli Breed Guide
Also known as: Hungarian Water Dog, Mop Dog
Hungarian herders with corded coats, Pulis are alert, agile working dogs whose unique appearance and intelligence appeal to those wanting distinctive companions.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
10-16 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
10-16 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
About Pulis
The Puli originated in Hungary over 1,000 years ago, brought by Magyar tribes who used these dogs to herd sheep and other livestock. These distinctive dogs were bred for their intelligence, agility, and unique corded coat that provided protection from harsh weather and predators.
Pulis are medium-sized dogs with distinctive corded coats that form naturally as the dog matures. Their coats come in black, white, grey, or cream colours. They're known for their bouncy gait, alert expressions, and intelligent, spirited personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, energetic, and make excellent family pets for active households. They're generally good with children and are known for their loyal, protective nature. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation, excelling in herding and agility. Their unique coats require special care to maintain the cords properly. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, certain eye conditions, and skin problems. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Pulis
Expert advice on keeping your Puli healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of a Puli's wellbeing, with their unique energy levels and physical characteristics requiring careful dietary consideration. These active dogs thrive on measured portions of high-quality food that delivers balanced nutrition through a thoughtful combination of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Portion control plays a vital role in maintaining optimal health, as Pulis can be prone to weight gain if allowed to free-feed. Rather than leaving food available throughout the day, establish regular mealtimes with carefully measured portions based on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Working closely with your veterinarian helps determine the ideal daily caloric intake for your individual Puli.
Given their naturally high energy levels, Pulis often require adjustments to their feeding schedule and portion sizes based on their exercise routine. Active dogs engaged in regular herding activities or agility training may need additional calories to maintain their energy reserves, while less active pets require careful monitoring to prevent excess weight gain. Regular assessment of your Puli's body condition, combined with veterinary guidance, ensures their nutritional needs remain properly met throughout different life stages.
How healthy is your Puli?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Pulis from our community of pet parents
Pulis are known for their intelligent, agile, and energetic nature. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and herding trials. Pulis are also known to be deeply loyal to their families, often forming strong bonds with their human companions. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require early and consistent socialisation to prevent over-protectiveness.
Dog Breeds Similar to Puli
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Puli
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Shaggy Polish herders, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are confident, intelligent working dogs whose thick coats and alert nature suit active households.
Komondor
Living mops with guardian hearts, Komondors are powerful livestock protectors whose corded coats and fearless nature suit experienced owners with adequate space.
Bearded Collie
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