While the Puli is an older breed, it is not a well-known breed. Their unique look with a compact body and corded hair cannot be mistaken for any other breed. This fun-loving herder is smart, ready to please, and makes a wonderful family companion. One fun fact is the plural of Puli is Pulik and is pronounced the same way. Keep reading to learn some interesting facts about Pulik.
1. Rare Breed with a Storied Past
While the Puli was accepted by the American Kennel Club in 1936 and the Puli Club of America was formed 15 years later in 1951, it is not a well-known breed. Historians believe their ancestors came to Hungary by the Magyars over 2,000 years ago. The Magyars also introduced ancestors of the Komondor and Kuvasz into Hungary.
Also known as the Hungarian Water Dog, the unusual Puli was used to herd sheep and help guard the flock. In Hungary, these dogs are still actively used in the fields. These dogs are also excellent watchdogs when they are home, protective of their family, and very vocal if they perceive a threat.
2. Unique Appearance Unlike Any Other
There are other dog breeds with corded hair, the Komondor, for example, has cords. But unlike the Komondor, the Puli’s hair grows in natural corded strands. When they reach adulthood, their cords will hang to the ground. Pulik are generally black, but they can be gray or white. In Hungary, there is a fourth color called fanko.
As a Puli ages, especially those with black hair, they will develop a weathered look to their hair. White hairs will intertwine with the black hairs. Their tail curls over their backs and also have a weathered look. Overall, the Puli looks messy and unkempt.
3. Puli is an Easy Dog to Live With
Being a herding breed, the Puli does need a large, fenced yard to run and play. These energetic dogs need a tall fence, some have the ability to jump and climb very well. The Puli excels on a farm but can easily adapt to a smaller house as long as they get plenty of exercise. Being very smart, the Puli is easy to train and thrives on attention and learning new things.
Regular grooming is required, but they are not brushed like most other dogs. Their hair should be wet down with water and then using your hands, you will separate and twirl the strands of hair into cords. You can trim their coat if you do not want it on the ground. Use a gentle shampoo during their baths. Pulik do not need to be bathed as often as most dog breeds. After rinsing their cords, they should be squeezed to remove excess water and then wrapped in towels. It can take several days for a Puli’s coat to fully dry after a bath. Never use heat to dry their coats, this can irritate and dry out their skin. Nail trims and ear cleaning should be done every two weeks.
4. Hard-working Dog in a Small Package
Like other herding breeds, such as the Rough Collie or Australian Shepherd, the Puli can be vocal when they demand attention or are performing a task. It will be beneficial to train your Puli to be quiet on command. They work hard and play harder. Pulik requires a lot of time to exercise and will need some kind of job to do to be truly happy.
These small dogs excel in dog sports such as herding, agility, obedience, and even lure coursing. Interactive toys are great to keep your Puli busy and use their brain to solve puzzles and find the toys or treats. They are naturally suspicious of strangers, making them great watchdogs. Without proper socialization and training, Pulik can become aggressive. Make sure you sign up for training classes if you are not able to train your dog at home.
5. The Puli is Hypoallergenic
There are not many hypoallergenic dog breeds. The Puli’s unique, corded coat and drier skin do not have the typical dander that causes allergic reactions. Proper care of the Puli coat will allow those with allergies to pet dander to enjoy having a fun, intelligent dog without having to suffer from allergies and rely on medications so they can have a pet.
Talk with responsible Puli breeders about your allergies and discuss how to ensure this hypoallergenic dog will fit into your home and become a well-loved, valuable member of the family without triggering allergic reactions.
6. Wary of Strangers but Loyal to Their Family
Self-confident, active, and intelligent are just a few words to describe the Puli. Other words used include manipulative, loyal, and funny. The Puli was originally bred to be a herder, guardian, and sole companion to the shepherd tending the flock. They are content to be isolated from their family and are naturally wary of people they do not know.
Puli owners will tell you these dogs will keep you guessing and laughing. They are always up to something and love to play games and learn tricks. The Puli remains very active well into their senior years. Toys and exercise will keep your Puli young for many years.
How To Find a Puli
Owning a Puli will mean never having a dull moment when they are around. Busy, fun, and hard-working, the Puli is a unique small dog full of life. Their corded coats make them look messy, but they are hypoallergenic making them ideal for families suffering from pet allergies. Not a well-known breed, you may have to do some research to find a responsible breeder. Visit the American Kennel Club’s Marketplace for available Pulik, contact the national breed club and ask for breeder referrals, or visit a dog show.
