Puli Facts

The Puli is one of the most recognizable dog breeds out there, with its long, mop-like coat and powerful body. These dogs were traditionally used for herding sheep, but they also make great companions. Read on to find out more amazing Puli facts and information!

The Puli Is An Ancient Breed

The Puli’s ancestry dates back over a thousand years, when the Magyar invaded Hungary and took over, bringing their favorite dog breed with them. Ever since the invasion, Pulis have remained a staple of Hungary, and used as indispensable herding dogs for sheep and goats. Their strongly protective nature, combined with their intelligence, obedience, and agility, make them the ideal breed for herding and guarding flocks.

Their Coat Is Difficult To Care For

The hallmark of the Puli is their long, corded coat that makes them resemble a mop. However, that adorable coat does come with a price. They require lots of grooming and care to keep their coat in tip-top condition.

While many dogs with corded coats love the water, the same cannot be said for the Puli. In fact, if they get wet, it can take days for them to dry off completely! While it is possible to trim their coat so it is easier to care for, most owners opt to put in the extra time and effort.

They Will Herd Just About Anything!

One of the cutest fun facts about Puli dogs is that their herding instinct is so strong, they’ll herd just about anything they can. Most Pulis these days aren’t used for work on a farm and are instead kept as family companions. Without livestock to herd, Pulis will often end up herding children instead! They’ll gently pull, nudge, or nip at young children to steer them where they want, which can be quite hilarious to watch.

The Puli’s Corded Coat Serves An Important Purpose

The Puli’s distinctive coat isn’t just there as a fashion choice. The winters in Hungary are frigidly cold and snowy, so their thick coat and undercoat serve as vital protection against the elements. Guarding a flock also comes with certain dangers, namely wolves. That thick coat also serves as a shield of sorts, protecting them from the vicious bites of predators.

They’re Surprisingly Agile

One of the biggest mistakes many people make is assuming that the Puli’s compact body and long, corded coat make this breed cumbersome. However, that couldn’t be farther from the truth! Pulis are actually amazingly agile creatures, which certainly comes in handy while dodging and weaving around herds of sheep.

Even if a Puli isn’t being used for work on a farm, they’re a popular breed when it comes to competing in agility courses.

They Come In Three Colors

One of the most interesting facts about Pulis is that they come in three different colors. The most common color for Pulis is black, because sheep are more likely to obey a dark-colored animal, and it makes them easier for their owner to find among a flock. The other two colors of Puli, gray and white, were used for Pulis who guarded herds at night.

Pulis Are Extremely Protective

While very affectionate and loyal towards their family members, Pulis are naturally wary and even aggressive towards strangers. This makes them the perfect guard dog, as their fierce loyalty towards their family causes them to put their life on the line to defend their owners!

They Rarely Shed

While the Puli’s coat is notoriously difficult to care for, it does come with a surprising advantage. Most Pulis rarely shed, and many don’t even shed at all! Their tightly corded coat will shed as it grows out when the Puli is a puppy, but once they reach adulthood, shedding becomes minimal.

Pulis Need A Lot Of Exercise

Unsurprisingly, the Puli’s roots as a herder mean that the breed is built for high levels of energy. If your Puli doesn’t live on a farm where it’s being used to run around and herd sheep, then you’ll need to be sure to take it on plenty of walks. A large, fenced-in backyard is a must for this breed of dog!

They’re Great Learners!

Our last Puli fact is that they’re very intelligent. While these dogs are known to have a bit of a stubborn streak as puppies, with proper training, they’re very quick learners. In fact, the Puli is a very popular choice for obedience training, because they often wipe out the competition with their quick wit.

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