The Puli Breed of Dogs belongs to the Herding Dog Group and has been a member from 1936. Because of their long and extremely curly coat, which is actually weather proof, they are often described as “mop like” looking dogs. The Puli dogs are about 16 or 17 inches tall, and weigh between 25 to 35 lb. These dogs are very quick and agile especially when they are herding.
The Puli dogs are known to be curious, defensive and very energetic. They are known to be quite stubborn at times. These dogs can be quite aggressive towards other dogs and also with strangers. With this type of attitude they make very good watchdogs and protectors. They also like to bark a lot.
The Origin of the Puli Dog Breed
The Puli dogs originated in Hungary and their history dates back to The Middle Ages. They are direct descendants of a sheepdog that belonged to members of the Magyar tribes who inhabited the central Danube area in the 9th century. These tribes had different types of sheepdogs.
Because the Puli dog’s structure resembles that of the Tibetan Spaniel, it is believed that a mixture took place between the two types of dogs. It does not matter what mixtures went into the make-up of these dogs, the result was that these dogs were natural sheep herders. They were very good at their job and by jumping on the backs of the sheep were even able to help steer them in a specific direction.
Hungary was invaded and its people decimated during the 16th century. Sheep and dogs had to be brought in from Western Europe once the population started to increase again. These dogs were interbred with the local dogs, the Pulik (the Puli , which resulted in the creation of the Pumi dogs. This interbreeding continued until the original Puli dog breed was almost extinct.
It was sometime in the 1900s that dog breeders started to work on bringing back the Puli dog breed. It was in 1925 that the first standard Puli breed was created. They became popular all over the world, especially in the United States, as their numbers increased. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Puli dog breed in 1936.
Care and Attention for the Puli Dog Breed
The puli dogs are extremely energetic and to use up this energy they always like to stay busy. They especially enjoy herding. They require daily walks on the leash. To stimulate them mentally they also need lively training sessions. These dogs are easy to train and they do like any vigorous activity.
If necessary, these dogs may live outdoors because they do well in cold temperatures, but they prefer to sleep inside at night with the family. They make well-mannered house pets and enjoy human companionship. The coats of the Puli dogs tend to hold small pieces of dirt and debris so it is necessary to brush their coats daily. The Puli can be completely clipped, but then it will lose its unique appearance.
Health Problems for the Puli Dog Breed
The only major health issue to worry about with your Puli is CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Other minor problems that may occur are PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) and deafness. You should get your Puli tested for eye, hip and hearing problems. The Puli dog may live for about ten to fifteen years.
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