Puli
Description
The Puli is a medium-sized Hungarian herding dog, famous for its unique corded coat that resembles dreadlocks. Agile and alert, this breed was developed to herd and guard livestock, traits still evident today. Pulik weigh between 25 and 35 pounds and move with a springy, energetic gait. Their coat colors range from black and brindle to cream and rust, often with distinctive markings like black masks or white patches. Pulik are quick learners with a playful streak, often showing a clownish sense of humor. They can be reserved around strangers but form strong bonds with family members. Their herding instincts may lead them to try and herd children or other pets, so early training and plenty of mental challenges are essential. This breed’s history dates back over a thousand years, making it one of the oldest herding dogs still active today.
Grooming
The Puli's corded coat requires consistent care to stay healthy and neat. Their long, double coat naturally forms cords that trap shedding hair, reducing loose fur around the home. After baths, it’s crucial to separate damp cords down to the skin to prevent matting and mildew. Drying takes longer in humid conditions, so patience is key. Regular maintenance every 6 to 8 weeks keeps cords clean and well-formed. - Separate cords gently after bathing - Slow, thorough drying to avoid mildew - Check cords regularly for debris - Trim around eyes and paws if needed - Use a mild shampoo formulated for corded coats Pro tip: Schedule grooming sessions before cords become too dense to separate easily. This prevents painful matting and keeps the coat breathable. Pulik with white or cream coats may need extra attention to avoid staining around the face and paws.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Pulik need about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage their alert and active nature. Morning walks can focus on brisk exercise to burn off energy, while evening strolls offer mental stimulation through varied routes or scent games. This breed thrives on consistent routines but benefits from occasional changes in walking paths to keep their curiosity engaged. Example routine: - Morning: 45 minutes brisk walk with obedience drills - Evening: 40 minutes relaxed walk with scent exploration Short walks won’t satisfy their drive. Keep sessions purposeful.
Boarding
When boarding a Puli, a crate size of 36 to 42 inches is recommended to accommodate their medium build comfortably. They enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the Puli feel secure and reduce stress. Their herding instincts mean they might try to control other dogs during group play, so supervision is important. Enrichment activities that challenge their intelligence and agility work best. Quiet time in the crate after play helps them recharge. Staff should be aware that Pulik can be vocal, so patience and positive reinforcement are key to managing barking.