Puli
AgileLoyalIntelligent
Hungary · 10–15 years
About the Puli
The Puli (plural: Pulik) is a unique Hungarian herding breed instantly recognizable by their distinctive corded coat that resembles dreadlocks or a living mop. Unlike their larger cousin the Komondor (white livestock guardian), Pulik are black herding dogs that actively drove and managed flocks. Their agile, bouncy movement and acrobatic herding style — they would jump on the backs of sheep to move across the flock — earned them the nickname 'acrobat of the dog world.' Pulik are intelligent, energetic, and entertaining dogs with a strong sense of humor and unwavering loyalty to their families.
Breed stats
- Height
- 16–17 in
- Weight
- 25–35 lbs
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Group
- Herding
- Coat
- Dense, corded (dreadlock-like)
- Origin
- Hungary
Coat colors
- Black
- Silver
- White
- Brindle
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
45–60 min
per day recommended
Daily food
1–1.5 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Cataracts
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Deafness
Not every Puli will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Pulis eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- A Puli's corded coat requires unique maintenance. The cords begin forming naturally around 8-10 months of age, and owners must regularly separate them by hand to prevent the cords from matting together into solid sheets. This involves carefully pulling the cords apart down to the skin every week or two. Bathing is a significant undertaking — the cords absorb enormous amounts of water and can take 12-24 hours to dry completely with fans. An improperly dried coat can develop mildew and odor. Many pet owners choose to keep the coat shorter (brushed out or trimmed) for easier maintenance.
- Pulik and Komondorok are both Hungarian breeds with corded coats, but they serve different purposes and differ significantly. Pulik are medium-sized (25-35 lbs), typically black, and are active herding dogs that drove and managed flocks. Komondorok are giant (80-100+ lbs), always white, and are livestock guardians that protected flocks from predators. Pulik are energetic, playful, and agile; Komondorok are calm, independent, and territorial. Pulik are more suitable as family pets due to their smaller size and more sociable temperament, while Komondorok need experienced guardian breed owners.
- Pulik can be very good family dogs for active, experienced owners. They are intelligent, loyal, and playful, enjoying interactive activities with their family. They are generally good with children when raised with them, though their herding instinct may cause them to nip at running children's heels. Pulik are devoted to their family but can be reserved or suspicious of strangers. They need daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. The unique corded coat requires significant time commitment. For families willing to invest in grooming and training, Pulik are entertaining, loyal, and deeply bonded companions.
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