Puli



The Puli is a medium-sized sheepherding dog originating from Hungary. They are best known for their long, dreadlock-like hair, which begins to form at about 9-12 months of age. The Puli is a member of the Herding Group.

Breed History
The Hungarian Puli was introduced by the migration of the Magyars from Central Asia more than 1,000 years ago. In Asia, the breed dates back 2,000 years, with evidence that suggests a Puli-like dog existed 6,000 years ago.

Puli's commonly worked with the Komondor, a larger Hungarian breed. Puli's would alert the pack if there was an intruder, and then the Komondor's would fight off the intruders. Present-day Puli are primarily used as farm dogs, not so much used as sheepherders.

Temperament


The Puli is sensitive, fun-loving, courageous, but also at times tough and headstrong. They are very intelligent and do well in obedience training if started early. Loyal to their masters, they are usually wary of strangers and take time to warm up to them.

Puli's are very active dogs, and are not suitable for indoor-city living. They require a lot of excercise, making them best suited for farm life.

Appearance
Puli's are solid-colored dogs that are usually black. They can also come in less common colors like white, gray, or cream. White Puli's are often blue-eyed and called Roxies. Puli's are most commonly identified by their long, dreadlock-like coat. This coat requires a considerable amount of grooming to keep neat and clean. Less common, the coat can also be shortened for easy maintenance.

Female Puli's are 16.5 inches tall, and weigh 23 to 25 pounds. Males are larger at 17 inches tall, with their weight being slightly more than their female counterparts.