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Puli

Puli is a medium herding breed from Hungary also known as Hungarian Puli, Hungarian Water Dog.

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Breed overview

Puli is a medium herding breed from Hungary also known as Hungarian Puli, Hungarian Water Dog.

An ancient Hungarian herding breed with a distinctive corded coat that naturally forms into dreadlock-like cords. Brought to Hungary by the Magyars over 1,000 years ago, they were essential for managing sheep flocks on the Hungarian plains.

People looking into Puli usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 25–35 lbs • 14–18 in.

Hungarian PuliHungarian Water Dog

History and origin

Puli is tied to originating from Hungary, specifically Hungarian plains, with sources often placing its development around 800 CE.

Puli is described here as placed in the herding group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient Hungarian herding breed with a distinctive corded coat that naturally forms into dreadlock-like cords. Brought to Hungary by the Magyars over 1,000 years ago, they were essential for managing sheep flocks on the Hungarian plains.

Browse dog breeds from Hungary Browse more herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
herding
Size
Medium
Origin country
Hungary
Region
Hungarian plains
Origin year
800 CE
Weight
25–35 lbs
Height
14–18 in
Lifespan
10–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
1 / 5
Barking tendency
4 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Puli is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

CordedLongDense

Puli is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized herding dog with distinctive corded coat
  • Long, rope-like cords covering entire body
  • Usually solid black, but can be white or gray
  • Agile, square build hidden beneath the cords

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient Hungarian herding breed with a distinctive corded coat that naturally forms into dreadlock-like cords. Brought to Hungary by the Magyars over 1,000 years ago, they were essential for managing sheep flocks on the Hungarian plains.
  • Their unique coat serves multiple purposes - it provides protection from weather and predators, helps them blend in with sheep, and the cords actually repel dirt and debris. The cords can take 4-6 years to fully develop.
  • Nearly wiped out during World War II, with many killed by bombs or eaten during food shortages. The breed was revived post-war by Hungarian breed enthusiasts who collected the few remaining dogs from remote farms.

Health and care notes

Puli is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Degenerative Myelopathy

Coat details: Corded, Long, Dense

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Puli come from?

Puli is closely associated with Hungary, especially Hungarian plains in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Puli get?

Typical size details for Puli on this page are 25–35 lbs, 14–18 in, 10–15 years.

What is the Puli known for?

An ancient Hungarian herding breed with a distinctive corded coat that naturally forms into dreadlock-like cords. Brought to Hungary by the Magyars over 1,000 years ago, they were essential for managing sheep flocks on the Hungarian plains.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Puli reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.