Puli (Hungarian Water Dog)

The history of the Puli breed stretches back centuries, closely intertwined with the nomadic past of the Magyar tribes. It is believed that the ancestors of modern Pulis arrived in the territory of present-day Hungary with the Magyars over a thousand years ago, around the 9th century. These dogs were indispensable helpers for shepherds, assisting them in managing large flocks of sheep on the vast plains of the Puszta. Their compact build, incredible agility, and loud bark made them ideal for this work – they could easily manoeuvre among the sheep, guide them, and warn of danger.

Several theories exist regarding the Puli’s more ancient origins. One connects them to ancient Asian herding dogs, possibly even ancestors of the Tibetan Terrier. Archaeological findings suggest the existence of dogs with a similar corded coat in the region even before the Magyars’ arrival. The Puli’s unique coat, which mats into cords, provided excellent protection from severe weather – both cold in winter and heat in summer – as well as from the bites of predators like wolves.

For many centuries, the Puli worked side-by-side with another famous Hungarian herding breed – the Komondor. These two breeds often performed different roles: the larger and more powerful Komondor typically guarded the flock at night, while the smaller, more agile Puli worked actively during the day, directing the flock’s movement. Pulis would sometimes even use the backs of the sheep as bridges to move quickly through the flock. Interestingly, shepherds valued their Pulis so highly that the cost of a good working dog could equal a shepherd’s annual wages.

In the early 20th century, with changes in traditional agriculture and a decreasing need for herding dogs, the breed faced the threat of extinction. However, thanks to the efforts of enthusiasts, particularly Dr. Emil Raitsits, who started a breed recovery programme in the 1910s, the Puli was saved. The first breed standard was developed in 1915 and officially approved by the Hungarian Kennel Club in 1925. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognised the breed in 1935. Pulis arrived in the USA in the 1930s, where they also gained popularity for their unique appearance and excellent working abilities. The breed was recognised by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1936.

In Hungary, the Puli is considered a national treasure. There are also other Hungarian sheepdogs, such as the energetic Pumi, which is believed to have Puli and French and German terrier-type sheepdogs in its ancestry.

The Puli is a medium-sized dog with a square build, giving an impression of strength and agility despite its relatively light weight. The most characteristic feature of the breed is its unique coat, which naturally forms into long cords or ribbons resembling dreadlocks.

The head of a Puli is in proportion to its body and appears round due to the abundant coat. The muzzle is slightly shorter than the skull and is straight. The stop (the transition from the forehead to the muzzle) is barely noticeable. The nose is black. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark brown, with a lively and intelligent expression. The hair on the head is so dense that it often completely covers the eyes, creating a distinctive “fringe” that, however, does not impede the dog’s vision. The ears are V-shaped, medium-sized, drop-ears, and set at a medium height.

The body is compact and sturdy, with a straight topline. The chest is deep and moderately broad. The belly is slightly tucked up. The limbs are straight, parallel, and well-muscled. The paws are round and tight, with strong pads and dark claws. The tail is set high, usually curled over the back, and is so densely coated that it often blends in with the mass of fur on the rump.

The coat is the Puli’s signature feature. It consists of a dense, soft undercoat and a coarser, wavy or curly outer coat. These two types of hair intertwine to form the characteristic cords. The cording process begins in puppies at around 6-10 months of age and can take up to 2-3 years for the coat to reach its full length and maturity. The cords can be thin or thick, flat or round. The coat can grow long enough to reach the ground in adult dogs. Crucially, this coat does not shed in the traditional sense; dead hairs remain trapped within the cords. This makes the Puli a frequently recommended breed for people with allergies, though no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.

The colour of a Puli can vary:

• Black: The classic and most common colour. It can be a deep black or have a rusty tint from sun exposure.
• White: A pure white with no yellowing.
• Grey (Maskos Fakó): Various shades of grey, from silver to dark. Puppies are born black and lighten with age.
• Fawn: Ranging from cream to apricot, often with a black “mask” on the muzzle.

The skin underneath the coat is usually dark, even in white dogs. A similar corded coat is also found on the Bergamasco Sheepdog, although its flocks (or, more accurately, mats) have a slightly different structure.

The Puli is a dog with a bright, dynamic, and exceptionally intelligent character. They are known for their boundless energy, playfulness, and deep attachment to their family. This is not a dog that will lie quietly on the sofa all day; a Puli needs activity, both physical and mental.

Intelligence and Trainability: Pulis are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They quickly grasp new commands and tricks, often exceeding their owner’s expectations. Their sharp mind and eagerness to please make training enjoyable, but also require consistency and creativity from the owner. Pulis can be somewhat stubborn, so it’s important to start training and socialisation from an early age using positive reinforcement methods.

Energy and Playfulness: This is an extremely active breed. Pulis love to run, jump, play with a ball, and participate in any family activities. They need long daily walks, the opportunity to run freely in a safe area, and regular mental stimulation in the form of games or dog sports (e.g., agility, obedience, flyball). Without enough activity, a Puli can become restless and even destructive.

Loyalty and Family Relationships: Pulis are very people-oriented and form a strong bond with their family. They are affectionate, loving, and strive to be the centre of attention. They get on well with children, especially if they grow up together, becoming excellent playmates. However, due to their herding instincts, Pulis may try to “herd” small children by gently nipping at their heels. This behaviour should be corrected from a young age. With other pets, Pulis usually get along well if they have been properly socialised.

Watchdog Qualities: Despite their relatively small size, Pulis are excellent watchdogs. They are very alert, attentive to everything happening around them, and always ready to announce the approach of strangers or any unusual sounds with a loud bark. They are typically wary of strangers but not aggressive unless they feel a direct threat. Their bravery is unquestionable.

Tendency to Bark: Pulis can be quite vocal. Their tendency to bark is part of their herding nature, as barking was one of their tools for managing the flock. It’s important to teach a Puli to control its barking from an early age to prevent it from becoming a problem for neighbours.

Independence and Sensitivity: Although Pulis are eager to please, they also have a streak of independence in their character. They can sometimes make their own decisions, a legacy of their herding work. Pulis are very sensitive to their owner’s mood and the atmosphere in the home. They do not tolerate harsh treatment, shouting, or unfair punishment, which can lead to stress or even depression in the dog. A similar sensitivity and loyalty can also be found in the Long-Haired Pyrenean Sheepdog, which is also an excellent herder and companion.

The Puli is generally considered a healthy and hardy breed with an average lifespan of 12-16 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic diseases and health issues. Responsible breeders test their breeding stock for common hereditary diseases to reduce the risk of passing them on to offspring.

The main health problems that can occur in Pulis include:

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a common condition in many dog breeds where the hip joint develops incorrectly, leading to arthritis and pain. It’s important to choose a puppy from parents who have been screened for dysplasia.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A group of genetic eye diseases that lead to the gradual degeneration of the retina and, eventually, blindness. Genetic tests are available to identify carriers of PRA.
• Cataracts: A clouding of the lens of the eye that can impair vision and even lead to blindness. It can be hereditary or develop with age.
• Skin Conditions: Due to their thick, corded coat, Pulis can be prone to skin problems if the coat is not properly maintained. Insufficient drying after bathing can lead to the development of fungal infections or dermatitis. It’s also vital to regularly check the skin under the cords for irritation, parasites, or foreign objects.
• Ear Infections: The Puli’s drop-ears, covered in dense fur, create a warm and moist environment that is conducive to bacterial and fungal infections. Regular ear cleaning and keeping them dry is essential for prevention.
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): A progressive disease of the spinal cord that can lead to weakness and paralysis of the hind limbs. A genetic test for susceptibility to DM is available.

Preventative Measures:

1. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Annual (or twice-yearly for older dogs) check-ups with a vet will help detect health problems at an early stage.
2. Vaccinations and Parasite Control: Adhering to a vaccination schedule and regular treatment for internal and external parasites is crucial.
3. Balanced Diet: High-quality food that is appropriate for the dog’s age, size, and activity level is the cornerstone of good health.
4. Sufficient Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps to maintain an optimal weight and a healthy cardiovascular system.
5. Grooming of Coat, Eyes, and Ears: As mentioned, special attention should be paid to the unique coat, and the eyes and ears should be regularly inspected and cleaned. Wiping the eyes with a chamomile tea solution or a special lotion can help prevent inflammation.
6. Choosing a Responsible Breeder: When buying a puppy, ensure that the breeder conducts genetic tests on their dogs and can provide the relevant certificates.

Timely diagnosis and correct treatment significantly improve the prognosis for many diseases. It is also worth remembering the health of other herding breeds, for instance, the Slovak Cuvac, which, being a larger dog, also has its own specific predispositions to musculoskeletal disorders.

Grooming a Puli’s coat is perhaps the most crucial aspect of keeping this breed, requiring time, patience, and specific knowledge. The Puli’s unique corded coat needs regular attention to stay healthy and tidy.

Forming the Cords: Puli puppies have soft, fluffy fur. The process of cord formation begins at around 6-10 months of age. Initially, the coat starts to mat into small clumps or patches. At this stage, it is essential to help the cords form correctly by manually separating them from the skin to the tips. This must be done regularly to prevent the formation of a solid felt-like mat. The cords should be of a roughly uniform thickness (usually like a pencil). This process can take up to 2-3 years until the coat is fully corded and has reached its maximum length.

Important: A Puli’s coat is not brushed or combed after the cords have started to form! Brushing would destroy the structure of the cords. Instead, grooming involves manually separating cords that stick together and removing any dirt, debris, or twigs that may get tangled in the coat.

Bathing: Pulis do not need to be bathed as frequently as dogs with other types of coats. Usually, once every 1-2 months is sufficient, or as needed if the dog gets very dirty. Use a mild dog shampoo, rinsing the coat thoroughly to ensure no residue is left behind, which could cause skin irritation. The most challenging part is drying. A Puli’s coat takes a very long time to dry, sometimes up to 2-3 days if left to air-dry. It is crucial to dry the coat thoroughly right down to the skin to avoid the growth of mildew, fungus, and an unpleasant odour. Many owners use powerful dog-specific dryers. In warm weather, you can let the dog dry in the sun, but make sure the skin under the cords is also dry.

Clipping: Some Puli owners who do not participate in dog shows prefer to clip their dogs to make grooming easier. The coat can be trimmed to a certain length (e.g., 5-10 cm) or even shaved off completely. If you decide to clip your Puli, be aware that the coat will lose its characteristic corded structure and will initially grow back as regular curly fur before it begins to form cords again. Clipping can be a good option for older dogs or in very hot climates.

Other Aspects of Grooming:

• Regularly check the skin under the cords for any signs of irritation, redness, or parasites.
• Trim the fur around the anal opening and genitals for hygiene.
• The fur between the paw pads may also need trimming to prevent matting and the build-up of dirt.

Although grooming a Puli may seem daunting, many owners find the process meditative and a way to strengthen their bond with their dog. The key is regularity and attentiveness. Provide your Puli with the proper care, and its unique coat will be its pride, not a problem.

The Puli is an exceptionally intelligent and quick-witted dog, which makes training them potentially easy and enjoyable. They quickly grasp new commands and concepts, often eager to please their owner. However, their intelligence is combined with a degree of independence and occasional stubbornness, a legacy from their herding past where they had to make their own decisions.

Starting Early: As with most breeds, training and socialisation for a Puli should begin as early as possible, literally from the first few days the puppy arrives in your home. Early socialisation involves introducing the puppy to various people, sounds, places, and other animals in a safe and controlled environment. This will help to raise a confident and well-balanced dog.

Training Methods: Pulis respond best to positive reinforcement methods – praise, treats, and toys. They are very sensitive to the tone of voice and the mood of their owner. Avoid harshness, shouting, and physical punishment, as this can cause fear, distrust, or even aggression in the dog. A mistreated Puli may become withdrawn or, conversely, overly excitable. Consistency, patience, and a positive attitude are the keys to successful training.

Basic Commands and Skills: Start with basic commands such as “Sit!”, “Down!”, “Come!”, “Heel!”, and “Place!”. It is also important to teach the Puli a “Quiet!” or “Enough!” command, as they have a tendency to bark. Teaching them to wait patiently is also a useful skill.

Mental Stimulation: Due to their high intelligence, Pulis need not only physical exercise but also regular mental challenges. A bored Puli may find its own entertainment, and it won’t always be something you approve of (like chewing furniture or excessive barking). Use interactive toys, puzzle feeders for dogs, teach new tricks, and engage in dog sports. Agility, obedience, flyball, and herding (if available) are all excellent activities for a Puli.

Herding Instincts: Remember that the Puli is a herding dog. Even if your Puli has never seen a sheep, its instincts can manifest in daily life. It might try to “herd” family members, especially children, or other pets by gently nipping at their heels or circling them. This behaviour should be gently but firmly corrected from a young age by redirecting its energy towards toys or other permitted activities.

Socialisation: Proper socialisation is critically important for a Puli. Introduce your puppy to different people (men, women, children of all ages, people with glasses, hats, etc.), other dogs (of various breeds and sizes, after appropriate vaccinations), and cats (if you plan for them to live together). Attend puppy training classes, and walk in different places – parks, quiet streets, near shops. The more positive experiences a Puli has at a young age, the calmer and more adaptable it will be as an adult.

Pulis are very sensitive and can become depressed if they feel their owner is displeased with them or is not giving them enough attention. Therefore, it is important to build a relationship based on trust, love, and mutual understanding.

Proper nutrition is the foundation of your Puli’s health, longevity, and energy. These active dogs require a high-quality, balanced diet that provides them with all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Although Pulis are not generally considered fussy eaters, it is important to follow certain recommendations.

Types of Food:

• High-Quality Dry Food (Kibble): Many owners choose a premium or super-premium commercial dry food. Such food is formulated to meet the needs of dogs, containing a balanced composition of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Choose a food that is appropriate for your Puli’s age (puppy, adult, senior), size, and activity level.
• Natural Diet (BARF or Home-Cooked): Some owners prefer to feed their dogs a diet of raw meat products (the BARF system) or prepare their food at home. This approach requires in-depth knowledge of canine nutrition to ensure the diet is truly balanced and does not lead to a deficiency or excess of certain substances. Before switching to a natural diet, it is essential to consult with a veterinary nutritionist.
• Mixed Feeding: Sometimes a combination of dry food and natural products (e.g., meat, vegetables, fermented dairy products) is used. It’s important not to mix dry food and natural food in the same meal, as they have different digestion times.

Key Components of the Diet:

• Proteins: These are the primary building blocks for muscles and tissues. Good sources of quality protein include meat (beef, chicken, turkey, lean lamb), fish (sea fish, cooked, boneless), eggs, and fermented dairy products (cottage cheese, kefir).
• Fats: Necessary for energy, healthy skin and coat, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Healthy fats are found in fish oil, linseed oil, and lean meat. Avoid an excess of fatty foods to prevent obesity and pancreatic problems.
• Carbohydrates: A source of energy. Beneficial carbohydrates are found in grains (rice, buckwheat, oats) and vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, courgettes, broccoli).
• Fibre: Important for normal digestion. It is found in vegetables and some grains.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Essential for all life processes. When feeding a high-quality dry food, additional vitamin supplements are usually not necessary unless prescribed by a vet. With a natural diet, the addition of special vitamin-mineral supplements may be required.

Feeding Schedule:

• Puli puppies are fed more frequently: 3-4 times a day up to 6 months of age, then 2-3 times a day up to a year old.
• Adult dogs are usually fed 1-2 times a day. It is better to divide the daily portion into two meals to avoid overloading the stomach.
• Feed your dog at the same time each day, after a walk.
• Always provide access to fresh, clean water.

Foods to Avoid:

• Chocolate, cocoa: Toxic to dogs.
• Onions, garlic: Can cause anaemia.
• Grapes, raisins: Can cause kidney failure.
• Bones (especially cooked tubular ones): Can injure the gastrointestinal tract or cause a blockage.
• Fatty, fried, smoked food, spices, salt in large quantities.
• Sweets, pastries: Lead to obesity, dental problems, and diabetes.
• Milk (for adult dogs): Many dogs are lactose intolerant.

Weight Control: Pulis are prone to gaining excess weight if they are overfed and do not get enough physical exercise. Obesity can lead to serious health problems (diabetes, joint disease, cardiovascular issues). Weigh your dog regularly and monitor its condition. The food portion should correspond to its individual needs.

Before getting a Puli, it is important to weigh all the pros and cons. This will help you make an informed decision and understand whether this unique breed is the right fit for you and your lifestyle.

Pros of the Puli Breed:

• Unique Appearance: The Puli’s corded coat makes them incredibly distinctive and original. They are truly an exclusive dog.
• High Intelligence: Pulis are very smart, learn quickly, and are capable of solving complex problems. They are easy to train with the right approach.
• Loyalty to Family: They are extremely attached to their owners, and are loving and affectionate with family members.
• Good Watchdog Qualities: Pulis are alert and always ready to signal danger, making them reliable guardians.
• Energetic and Playful: They are a wonderful companion for active people and families with children who love spending time outdoors.
• Adaptability: Pulis can adapt to life in a house with a garden as well as in a flat, provided they receive sufficient physical and mental stimulation.
• Relatively Low Shedding: Although the coat requires specific care, Pulis do not shed in the traditional sense (dead hairs remain in the cords). This can be a plus for people sensitive to fur, though it doesn’t guarantee complete hypoallergenicity.
• Longevity: With good care, Pulis live quite long, on average 12-16 years.

Cons of the Puli Breed:

• Complex Coat Care: The corded coat requires a lot of time and effort to maintain in good condition (regular separation of cords, lengthy drying after bathing). This is not a breed for lazy owners.
• High Activity Needs: Pulis require long daily walks, games, and mental challenges. Without this, they can become restless and destructive.
• Tendency to Bark: As herding dogs, Pulis can be quite vocal, which can be a problem, especially when living in a flat.
• Potential Stubbornness: Their intelligence is combined with independence, so they can sometimes be stubborn. They require consistent and patient training.
• Need for Early Socialisation: Without proper socialisation, they can be overly suspicious of strangers or exhibit herding behaviour towards people and other animals.
• Not for Novices: Due to their specific grooming and training needs, Pulis are not usually recommended as a first dog for inexperienced owners.
• Prone to Certain Health Conditions: Although generally healthy, they are prone to dysplasia, eye problems, and skin infections if their coat is not properly cared for.

• The “Acrobats” of the Dog World: Pulis are known for their incredible agility and ability to jump high. They can easily change direction at full speed, which made them very effective herders.
• The Name “Puli”: The exact origin of the name “Puli” is unknown. One theory suggests it may come from the German word “pudel” (poodle), due to their similar curly coat at a young age, or from the Hungarian word “pulihur,” meaning “one who repels” or “destroyer.” Another version is from the word “Pulihora,” which meant “herding dog.”
• Not Just Herders: In addition to their primary role of herding sheep, Pulis were also used to guard property and as companions. During World War II, they were even used as messenger dogs.
• Coat as Camouflage and Protection: The dense, corded coat not only protected the Puli from the elements but also served as a kind of camouflage among the sheep, as well as protecting them from the bites of wolves and other predators.
• Floating “Dreadlocks”: Despite their dense coat, many Pulis are good swimmers. Their coat, though heavy, can trap air, helping them to stay afloat. However, after swimming, the dog must be dried very thoroughly.
• Pulis in Pop Culture: One of the most famous Puli owners was Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook. His white Puli, named Beast, had his own page on the social network with millions of followers.
• Colour Variations: The most common colour for a Puli is black. It was believed that black Pulis were easier for shepherds to see among white sheep, and white Pulis were more visible at night. Grey Pulis (Maskos fakó) are born black and lighten with age, reaching their final colour over several years.
• A Hungarian National Treasure: The Puli, along with other Hungarian breeds (Komondor, Pumi, Mudi, Hungarian Vizsla, Kuvasz), is considered a national heritage of Hungary and is protected by the state.

Do Pulis shed a lot?

Pulis do not shed in the traditional sense of the word, like a Labrador or German Shepherd. Their coat consists of a soft undercoat and a coarser outer layer that intertwine to form cords. Dead hairs remain trapped within these cords instead of falling onto the floor or furniture. However, this does not mean the coat requires no maintenance. On the contrary, regular separation of the cords is necessary to prevent them from matting into a solid carpet. A small amount of hair may fall out during grooming or if the cords are damaged.

Are Pulis suitable for living in a flat?

Yes, Pulis can live in a flat, but under a few important conditions. Firstly, they need significant daily physical exercise (long walks, running, active games). Secondly, they require mental stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behaviour. Thirdly, given their tendency to bark, it’s important to teach them a “Quiet!” command from an early age and ensure they are not left alone for long periods if this provokes barking.

Is it difficult to care for a Puli’s coat?

Caring for a Puli’s coat requires time and effort, especially during the cord-forming period (from 6-10 months to 2-3 years). It is necessary to regularly (several times a week or daily, depending on the dog) separate the cords by hand from the skin to the tips to prevent them from sticking together. Bathing is a separate process that can take several hours, and drying can take up to 24-72 hours if you don’t use special dryers. If you are not prepared to devote proper attention to grooming, this breed may not be for you. An alternative is regular clipping.

Do Pulis get along with children and other animals?

Pulis generally get along well with children, especially if they grow up together. They are patient and playful. However, due to their herding instincts, they may try to “herd” small children by gently nipping at their heels. This behaviour should be monitored. With other dogs and cats, Pulis usually live peacefully if they have been properly socialised from an early age. It is important to introduce them to other animals gradually and under supervision.

How much does a Puli puppy cost?

The cost of a Puli puppy can vary significantly depending on the pedigree, the breeder’s reputation, the region, and whether the puppy is intended for showing (show class) or as a pet (pet class). In the UK, you can expect the price for a puppy from a reputable breeder to be in the range of £1,500 to £2,500 or more. It is important to choose a responsible breeder who cares for the health and temperament of their dogs, rather than chasing the lowest price.

Do Pulis have a specific “doggy” odour?

One of the advantages of the Puli is that with proper coat care, they have virtually no characteristic “doggy” odour. This is because their skin does not produce as much sebum as some other breeds, and the cords trap dirt and dead skin particles. However, if the coat is not dried properly after bathing or if the dog has skin problems, an unpleasant odour may develop.