There’s no denying that a Puli dog is a special breed. It’s a small but majestic herding dog. Puli is unique physically to the extent that you can’t mistake it for any other breed.
Did you know the most intriguing part of this dog? It’s an amazing sight to behold. The last thing you would imagine is to see a dog embellished with a corded coat.
The Puli coat might be headstrong. Regardless, you will enjoy working with them as time goes on. They’re amazing teammates and companions. At least, the ancient Hungarian herdsmen attested to this fact.
Perhaps, bathing Puli dogs could also amuse you on the first day. The reason is simple. It’s not difficult to tell that Puli puppies are robust, obedient to a fault, and faithful little heroes. They are also fast learners. This means that grooming them is like peeling tangerines.
Where Are Puli Dogs From?
To appreciate dog breeds better, it’d be best to know their origin. It’s equally important to figure out their living conditions and the kind of people that influenced them. Perhaps, you could also find out who the first Puli breeders were. Are they reputable breeders? All this homework goes a long way.
According to some ancient writers, history has it that Puli dogs predate 5500 years. During that period, they were associated with the Sumerians. However, these breeding dogs later relocated to a border between Asia and India with the Avars. The Avars are a Caucasian ethnic group. Today, they constitute nearly a majority of the people who live in Ukraine.
However, there’s also an emerging logic that the Puli puppy had significant connections with the Cuman people. In any case, the Cuman people were Turkic hunters and gatherers who came from Western China. They relocated to Asia after escaping from the throes of the Mongols. History had it that while they moved to Asia, they had a smart dog all along. Somehow, this canine was associated with today’s Puli puppy.
You might have possibly noticed a striking resemblance between the Puli breed and the Tibetan terrier. Chances are that they share a similar heritage with the small sheepdog that relocated with the Cuman people.
Puli’s composition might be akin to the Tibetan terrier. But the Puli coat might have developed as a result of its historical abode. Based on another standpoint, our dog friend lived in the Hungarian grazing lands for a long time.
Afterward, the Puli developed an interlaced coat due to the intense weather that became the order of the day in its habitat. It’s little wonder that some people today refer to Puli as the Hungarian Puli.
The Puli’s weather-resistant coat is guarded against callous ice crystals and summer heat. It also broadened Puli’s movement. This way, we could safely conclude that this has contributed to the canine’s success as one of the best sheepdogs globally.
The Cuman people moved to Hungary in the mid-1300s. During that period, the Hungarian monarch offered shelter and other necessities to them. However, the Cumans escaped to the South when the Hungarian armies murdered the Cuman monarch.
The Cuman’s southern voyage catalyzed the root of a canine that they found in the south. Such canines are known as the interlaced Bergamasco. This dog is very much the same as a Puli dog. However, that’s not all. Its physical appearance is a borderline between a Komondor breed and a Puli breed.
Later on, the Hungarian sovereign summoned the Cuman people in the mid-1300s. So they moved to the nub of Hungary and intermarried with the Hungarians.
At some point, the Hungarians nearly became outcasts with the increased frequency of the Turkish’s infiltration in 1500. Each infiltration created chaos and caused the most inhumane destruction to both human beings and animals. Many purebred dogs were stolen and transported to Turkey.
The significant infiltration in Hungary didn’t end with the Turkish. Austrians also did the same. But their invasion was a fatal blow as it caused the Hungarian origin to be a no-go area. These chaotic periods affected several documents and national treasures as they all went missing. Ordinarily, these pieces of items could have helped the subsequent generation to find the connection between the Puli dog and Hungary.
The 18th century was a lucky year for the Puli breeds. It’s because the Hungarian herdsmen paid attention to the physical appearance of the dogs with excellent herding instincts. Perhaps, they had studied the anatomic aspects of such canines through their ancestors.
The late 18th century provided the first structural illustration of the Puli breed. This representation can be attributed to literature authored in the 19th century by Emil Raitsits. The book describes the proportions of the Puli as inferior to the summit of the herdsman’s boot.
The best part of history is that the breeders sheltered their pooches most remarkably. They protected these pets with great caution and even mapped out the best breeding schedules. In some cases, they might travel to the remote parts of the country to raise a Puli male breed. Do you care to know why?
It’s because, at that time, the gift of excellent herding dogs such as a Puli was equivalent to the proceeds of a herdsman for a full year.
It was customary for this herding dog to participate in herding sheep. They learn how to do so by resting on the shoulders of the giants. By this, we mean that they learn how to tend sheep by watching the operations of seasoned Pulis.
If a Puli canine didn’t meet expectations at a point, the Hungarian herdsmen didn’t think twice about eliminating it. As much as Puli is one of the most adorable family pets they’ve ever had, they did not tolerate laxity of any form. They wanted efficient and reliable animal helpers.
It was this brutal culling that catalyzed the breed to preserve, to this day, the speed, dexterity, and agility. The Puli breeds are known for these qualities. It has made them more than just a canine.
The early 19th century ushered in a period of coordinated rearing in Hungary. Biological sciences began to spearhead the rearing of a Hungarian water dog.
However, it was Dr. Raitsits (an instructor at the Hungarian University of Veterinary Medicine) who initiated an event to regenerate the Puli pooches. He feared that the breeds would be dead and gone from the fast revitalization of agriculture and early socialization.
Emil enlisted several Hungarian officials. Hence, they pooled their resources together to refurbish some parts of the Budapest Zoo to accommodate an experimental rearing event.
In a bid to promote the Puli canine, the standard dropped today compared to the days of the old. Sixty years ago, the Hungarian set some standards in motion for the following Puli classes. They are as follows:
- The Cop Puli (size must be 19+)
- Industrious Puli (Size must range from 19.7 to 15.7)
- Petite Puli (Size must range from 15.7 to 11.8).
- Dwarf (11 or less).
The metric system favored both medium-sized dogs and small dogs. The Puli dog is not an exception. The reason is that the proportions mentioned above echoed the primitive requirements of the Hungarian herdsmen.
Before we knew it, the canine breed had gained momentum to the point that almost every Hungarian brags about having a Puli. This heightened the interest of the Americans in the breed.
The United States enlisted the Department of Agriculture to participate in the experiment. To this end, the Department shipped in four herding breeds in 1935 in Maryland. The essence of the importation was to allay the problems of rearing dogs that sometimes endangered the lives of the protected animals.
As time went on, the U.S began to breed the Puli pooches and crossed them with some sheepdogs. In the course of the experiments, they discovered that the Puli had an edge over other dogs in terms of speed and agility. Unfortunately, they sold the canine breeds to reputable breeders when World War II broke out.
Hence, it’s believed that it’s from the four herding breeds and their offspring that the chronicles of the Puli breeds in the U.S emerged.
The Second World War put canine breeds at a massive disadvantage in Hungary. Shelter, insecticides, medications, and food became scarce as hen’s teeth. Most pooch owners kept their pets with their friends and relatives. Unfortunately, the Puli dogs left behind were murdered by the Russians as they sought to hush the protective Pulis.
Several Pulis went missing. However, they would have been annihilated if they had not gained momentum before the combat.
The Puli community became fully-fledged in 1955. This was before the American Kennel Club recognized the dog as a breed in 1936. In 1951, the Americans established a club, which was the umbrella club for Pulis in the United States. In other words, this is the national breed club for these smart dogs in the U.S.
In 1959, the Hungarians also established a Puli club. The club sets benchmarks that align with the traditional customs and values of a Puli in the days of the old. However, they abolished the cop Pulis and dwarfs and placed the remaining proportions under a single category.
In the past few years, the Hungarian progeny has witnessed the American Kennel Club’s favorable reception. Plus, strong linkages have been established between the Puli growers in Germany, Hungary, Australia, Great Britain, and many others.
After the AKC’s (American Kennel Club) recognition, the Puli breed became a global phenomenon.
The transportation of the male Puli’s frosted semen to foreign countries has bolstered the gene flow in other countries. It didn’t stop at that. The importation of breeding tools has also broadened the horizons.
Puli Temperament And Behavior
The Puli breeds have several adorable temperaments and traits. Just like human beings, they also have some detestable habits. But this active dog is still a cute, loving friend you can’t afford to lose.
#1. Family Companionship
It’s little wonder that the early breeders like to keep company with these dog breeds. The Puli puppies are amazing family companions.
Even though the Pulis tend to be independent, they’re very affectionate with members of their owners’ families. By this, we mean that they’re especially nice to their owners and other persons they’re familiar with.
They are amiable, energetic, and meticulous. The Puli breeds like to have fun with their owners. They are also adept at surveying their moods. So they can tell when you need a comforting cuddle.
#2. Shedding Level
The Puli coat envelops its body. And you know what? The corded coat is, of course, a sweet reality.
We suppose that you’re aware that this breed has an outer coat. This coat is covered with hair and fur. So you should expect to see a few shedding but not often. As a precaution, it’d be best to brush or shave as often as possible to guard against some skin allergies.
#3. Children Lover
Are you dreading keeping a family pet because you’re afraid that they would hurt your children? Don’t panic. The Puli canine exists for you, your children, and the rest of your family!
History had it that this dog breed had been bred to work peaceably with human beings. Of course, it’s not a myth. They’re quite tolerant of children’s attitudes.
However, if your child has never had a doggie friend, we suggest that you keep a tab on them during interactions with this dog breed.
#4. Friendly With Other Pooches
These dogs are generally sociable. So they blend well with other dog breeds. It doesn’t matter whether they met them at home or outside.
But here’s the catch: you should monitor how other pooches interact with your puli to avoid hostile attacks.
#5. Drooling Level
While this dog breed has several shining points, we cannot rule out the fact that they often drool. However, it’s on the low side.
These dogs may leave thick wet spots on your arm or your clothes. However, you can manage the wet discharges by always placing a towel on your arms during interactions.
So if you’re a fussy person or a clean freak, rearing Puli pooches might not be your calling.
#6. Protective /Highly Vigilant
This dog will likely give you a heads-up when unfamiliar people are around. They achieve this by barking.
They also react actively against any impending threat.
The best part is that they know when you don’t want to see a stranger. They can also tell when you want to see such strangers.
These dogs are particularly receptive to strangers that are accepted by you.
#7. Highly Adaptable
Being bred under different environmental conditions in the past, the Puli puppies can easily reconcile with change. This may include changes in weather, daily activities, living conditions, and other alterations in everyday life.
#8. Highly Playful
The enthusiastic spirit of this dog breed is on another level. Even an adult dog from this breed plays non-stop.
But as we’ve stated earlier, they’re highly intelligent animals. They know when to play. In any case, they play better when you want to play with them.
#9. Highly Energetic
The Puli dogs are very energetic and agile. They are always ready to move in search of the next adventure. Most times, these breeds will spend time jumping over a fence without a premeditated preparation throughout the entire day.
If you’re a sucker for adventures, make sure you take this breed on a walk. They will make you want more. Perhaps, they could relive those childhood memories of running and jumping across your neighborhood.
Puli breeds are not the type you could keep indoors as they get frustrated easily. They need mental exercises and stimulating physical activities to feel satisfied.
Don’t forget that they’re herding dogs. If there are no sheep to herd, they don’t mind herding people.
#10. Outspokenness
Puli breeds are not the talkers. However, they’re often very vocal in specific situations. These situations may include the presence of passers-by or unscrupulous persons. They respond to these situations by barking with intensity.
#11. Obedience
This breed can be submissive. But it doesn’t occur by implication. You need to train him well to help him achieve that.
The dog can be a combative one and the puppy will play upon your intelligence if you are not careful. But it’s rewarding when you figure out that you’ve molded this breed to your taste.
#12. Meticulous
This dog is one of the most meticulous of all canine breeds.
But here’s the catch; he makes a great trickster. The dog has a proven track record for inciting mischief.
Puli’s Nutrition
It’s not enough to know the history and temperament of this breed. You should also reward them with nutritious dog food.
The last thing you want is for your Puli to develop health problems from consuming a specific food. So it’d be best to feed them with foods strictly recommended by your vet. Remember, a healthy dog is a life.
You should also fix their diet based on their respective ages such as a puppy or adult Puli. Some Pulis might easily become overweight. So you should guard against excessive calories.
You should also familiarize yourself with human foods that are ideal for your pooches. Make sure clean water is always at the disposal of your dog for proper hygiene.
With a good diet, your dog will smell and look. better. They will also feel better.
Are Puli Dogs Aggressive?
Undoubtedly, this breed can be aggressive. There’s a popular sarcasm among Puli breeders that you have to be pretty bossy to own this dog. It’s because he will carve out the tactics to walk over you at any place.
Since this breed has a long-drawn history with herding, he does not feel satisfied with staying calm and giving up control. He needs an equally aggressive and fierce master to teach him a few lessons. This way, he wouldn’t get out of control.
The Puli breeds hate repetition. He could give you a loud bark or pounce on you for making him repeat similar activities. However, you must let him know who the real boss is or he will keep being combative.
How Do You Groom A Puli?
Grooming a Puli breed is like a walk in the park. So don’t get the facts twisted. You can keep this breed brushed or corded. You may also keep it with a clipped coat.
You don’t need to groom your family companion who is about eight to ten months old. It’s because, at this time, this breed’s coat is tender and coarse. What needs doing is to rinse his body, especially his ears and toenails regularly for excellent hygiene. You also need to trim Puli coats to sever the developing cords.
However, when their adult coat surfaces, you will notice that it begins to get thicker. You will feel the need to separate the coat from where the dog hair is attached to the skin. This is how a corded coat typically begins.
At this point, you can sever the tender clumps that connect the dog hair to the skin with your fingers. You must repeat this technique umpteen times for about 6 to 9 months.
As soon as the coat has varying cords, it’d be best to give the pooch a good bath. Bathing might take at least an hour and six hours for dry impact. You can sever the cords in your spare time. This will make a stimulating exercise while you’re watching movies in your parlor.
Is The Puli Dog Difficult To Train?
This ancient breed requires several mental and physical exercises such as dog sports to keep them in check. They are highly smart, energetic, and loyal. All these incredible qualities make it easier for them to learn quickly.
But here’s the catch; a mediocre person cannot own this breed. They require a smart but equitable hand. This is a stubborn dog or a strong-willed dog that can ridicule you at any place. However, it is advisable to start obedience training for your corded Puli at a young age.
You should prepare your mind. The Puli breeds are herding pooches. Most of them will not comply with your instructions easily. They organize their affairs whenever they want. Perhaps, they do not mind living for routines.
Hence, it’s only wise to educate them with caution and precision. This way, it becomes easier to train them through dog sports. Do you care to know why? Even though they’re independent-minded, they’re willing to explore new things. When they see this need, they will lose their guards.
They might not be able to vocalize this. But this breed wants to make you proud and happy. So if you handle them well, they won’t toy with any dog sports you’ve set in motion for them in the long run.
Plus, the Puli’s heritage with sheep herding reinforces trainability. You only need to treat them well.
Is Puli Hypoallergenic?
This breed is hypoallergenic. By this, we mean that they’re less likely to have an allergic reaction. The reason is simple.
Puli’s coat has a little or no shedding level. On the other hand, they also have a low drooling level. These qualities are considered to influence a Puli’s hypoallergenic nature.
Why Do Puli Dogs Have Dreadlocks?
This breed’s sturdy and corded coat looks like dreadlocks. These locks can develop long enough to touch the ground as soon as the dog clocks the age of four.
The outer coat offers the canine a striking and unique appearance. They’re often black but lighter colors are often available.
So back to the business? Why do the Puli pooches have dreadlocks?
The Puli’s threads develop naturally when they’re nine months old or thereabout. So that’s why they have dreadlocks.
Are Puli Dogs High Maintenance?
Yes, this breed is of high maintenance. If you are not ready to set a substantial amount of time apart, then this breed is not for you.
You need a lot of energy and time to trim your pooch’s cords. Even cleaning them is an event on its own. You must allow the cords to dry to guard against infections or allergies.
Can You Cut Puli’s Dog’s Hair?
Why not? As a human being, you can opt for low cuts. You can also cut off your Puli’s hair. In the past, the Hungarian herdsmen cut their canine’s hair every two years.
Cutting his hair will not harm them. As time goes on, it will slowly develop again.
How Much Do Puli Dogs Weigh?
It’s an amazing idea to know the typical weight and proportions of your pet. The Puli canine is not an exception. It will lay an excellent foundation for you and your vet to track your Puli’s wellbeing.
Generally, the ideal weight for a healthy dog, especially a Puli, is twenty-five to thirty-five pounds.
Puli’s Primary Health Problems
They are generally healthy. However, professional breeders lookout for the following primary health problems:
- Deafness.
- Hip dysplasia.
Once you notice symptoms from hip dysplasia or deafness, please reach out to a nearby Puli rescue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Puli dogs are very meticulous and adventurous family companions. It means that they detest following routines. They like to play, are sociable, and are adaptable to changes.
Sometimes, it can be challenging to train them or partake in canine sports due to their headstrong nature. What needs to be done is to show them who’s in control. The best tactic for setting them straight is the carrot and stick technique. So you should reward them for good behaviors and chastise them for poor habits.
*photo by slowmotiongli – depositphotos