The Puli
Size: Medium
Exercise Requirements: Medium
Grooming Requirements: Medium
Weight: 10-15 Kg
Life Span: 15 Years (approx)Appearance: The most striking and distinctive feature of this shaggy dog is its corded coat. The non shedding (non-allergenic to some) coat can reach to the ground in 4 to 6 years. Pulis are found in a range of colours: black, rusty black, white, all shades of grey and apricot with or without a black mask. The overall appearance of all variants must be that of a solid colour. Coloured legs or patches of colour on the body are a fault. In Australia the most common colour is black. The correct Puli coat consists of a coarse outer coat and a fine, dense, woolly undercoat. The correct balance of outer and undercoat develops into the properly corded coat. Careful grooming during the cording process can make for a neater appearance. Coat types can vary considerably among pedigree lines and individuals. Puppies from the same litter can have different coat types too.
History: Not only is the Puli a fascinating breed visually, it has an interesting history. Known in Hungary since the Magyar invasion of the 10th century, the Puli has been part of the lives of the Hungarian shepherds for more than a thousand years. They were bred to be their sole companion and workmate during the long days and months of isolation on the grazing lands of the vast Hungarian Plain. It was not until early last century that dog fanciers and zoologists began to study and document the Breed. The first Hungarian Standard (blue print) for the Breed was written in 1915 by Emil Raitsits. The Puli first appeared in the show ring in Budapest in 1923. World War 2 almost brought about the complete decimation of the Breed when dogs in Hungary were slaughtered by the invading army. It was only though a controlled breeding programme, assisted by dedicated breeders around the world that ensured the survival of these unique little Hungarians. Today the Puli is well established and popular in many countries, as well as Hungary, where he is now regarded as a national symbol and, very much a national treasure. Hence the saying, it is a joy to be “owned by a puli.”
Temperament: Their intelligence, trainability and overwhelming desire to please allow these hardy little workers to learn new tasks rapidly. This makes them “par excellence” for any dog sports, including obedience and agility training, as well as herding livestock. They are sensibly energetic and today’s Pulis love walks & stimulating games, as well as sitting on the couch with their modern day shepherd. They are a “smarty” and make great companion and activities dog. The Puli is an affectionate, intelligent and home loving companion. He is sensibly suspicious and therefore an excellent watchdog. Some Pulis have a “dominant” nature and like to be “top dog”! They must learn early to be accepting of other dogs and pets.
The Puli seldom barks without cause and will always appear to be going somewhere in a hurry. These dogs are happiest when romping and playing, especially if their owner or a companion dog joins in the fun. Pulis will adapt to a variety of living conditions whether in an apartment, suburbia or on a farm. Without a sizable yard, they can achieve a good workout with a jog, a game or obedience classes. They are suited to all climates and are content to be outside in temperate or cool climates. The Puli’s unusually thick, corded coat helps it withstand extremes of weather. They should not be left outside or overworked in hot weather. Some of them are fond of water and can swim very well. But not all have this tendency and should be always supervised around water.
The importance of sound temperament cannot be over emphasized. Well developed inner qualities, such as courage, intelligence, independence and determination, animate this little dynamo!
Care / Grooming: Puli puppies are born with a short wavy coat which is soft. As the puppy develops, the coat becomes progressively thicker. At 8 weeks pups look like a ball of fluff. From 6 months to 2 years, the soft cords become more pronounced, dense and harsher, and the mats of undercoat may require some splitting. The most intensive mat splitting period on most Pulis is between 9 to 18 months. Some Puli coats just drop into cords. After this, the coat settles down and requires a regular maintenance routine including bathing and drying, the main grooming aides are your fingers. A fully corded adult coat reaches the ground at about 5 years, which may take quite some time to dry naturally. The use of a blow dryer helps to dry the coat faster. A Puli not destined for a show career can have the cords kept shorter at any length for easier maintenance.
Health: Pulis have no major health problems but reputable breeders will screen for hip dysplasia and eye abnormalities.
