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.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Italian Dog Breeds
Welcome to our exploration of dog breeds from Italy, a land renowned for its diverse and captivating canine companions. Our Italian dog breeds list offers a glimpse into the rich heritage and unique characteristics of each breed, showcasing the depth and variety of...
French Dog Breeds
From elegant hunters to loyal guardians, France's canine companions offer a fascinating blend of history, function, and charm. Discover the diverse world of dog breeds from France with our comprehensive French dog breeds list. Delve into the tales and traditions that...
Livestock Guardian Dog Breeds
The livestock guardian dog breeds stand out for their remarkable blend of strength, loyalty, and protective instincts. This guide offers a closer look at these dedicated defenders, highlighting their history, characteristics, and the essential roles they play in...
Russian Dog Breeds
Embarking on an exploration of canines? Our Russian dog breeds list offers a deep dive into the diverse and storied world of Russia's beloved companions. From snowy terrains to bustling urban centers, discover the dogs that have shaped and been shaped by Russian...
Spitz Dog Breeds
Dogs come in a dazzling array of shapes, sizes, and temperaments, but there's something undeniably captivating about the spitz family. With their wolf-like features and rich histories tied to cold climates, they stand out in the canine world. In this guide, we'll...
Wirehaired Dog Breeds
Dog coats come in several different textures. Wirehaired dog breeds have stiff and harsh hair that stands away from their bodies. The wire-like texture of these canines makes them not only unique to the touch but also in appearance. So here are some of the top dog...
Merle Dog Breeds
Merle dog breeds have some of the most striking coats in all of “dogdom”. These stunning canines typically have a speckled or mottled appearance and often light-colored eyes that make them look even more unique. So here are some of the top dog breeds with merle coats...
Australian Dog Breeds
Australian dog breeds range from herders to lapdogs, and the country even has its very own native wild dog, the Dingo! All of these canines are ideally suited for life and work in the Land Down Under. That being said, here are all the dog breeds from Australia and...
Fawn-Colored Dogs
Fawn-colored dogs usually have a coat that is light brown, yellow, tan, or cream and often with a black mask. However, the shade of the coat can depend on the breed. It is considered to be one of the most attractive coat colors by many dog lovers. So here are some of...
Bulldog Breeds List
You might be surprised to learn that there are actually quite a few bulldog dog breeds. With their typically stocky appearance, short snouts, and jowls, these canines are some of the most beloved dogs on the planet. And with the help of the following bulldog breeds...
Sighthound Breeds
The sighthound breeds are a unique group of canines created to rundown various types of game. These athletes have features such as slender bodies, light bones, deep chests, and long heads which help them to perform their specific purpose as efficiently as possible....
Canadian Dog Breeds
While there are only four of them, you won’t find a hardier bunch than the Canadian dog breeds. Whether it was for work in the frigid rivers, icy coastal waters, or deep snow, each of these canines was created to perform vital tasks for their Canadian masters. So here...
Welsh Dog Breeds
From dispatchers of vermin to herders, and hunters the Welsh dog breeds all come from hardworking backgrounds. For those who love energetic pooches, these seven canines are sure not to disappoint. So here is everything you’ll want to know about the dog breeds from...
Belgian Dog Breeds
All Belgian dog breeds originally come from a working background. From small to large and from ratters to herders these canines are of course unique. So read on to find out everything you’ll want to know about the dog breeds from Belgium. Groenendael (Belgian...
Pinscher Breeds
The Pinscher breeds are a type, or family of dogs, that originally functioned as ratters, guardians, and working farm dogs. The name pinscher translates from German as to pinch or catch and is believed to describe how the dogs work when killing rodents and other...
The Best Poodle Mixes
There’s no doubt about it, in recent years Poodle mixes have become some of the most popular dogs on the planet. With so many different mixes to choose from you’ll want to know the basics of the top options out there. So here are some of the best poodle mixes and what...
Bergamasco Sheepdog Facts And Information
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a rare dog breed from the Italian Alps. It’s most famous for its unusual coat that looks similar in appearance to dreadlocks. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this special canine so here are some of the top Bergamasco Sheepdog facts...
Rare Dog Breeds
For various reasons and circumstances, certain dog breeds are much less common than others. Unfortunately, that means these special dogs are often overlooked. However, with the following list of rare dog breeds, you’ll quickly become familiar with some of the...
Dogs With Blue Eyes
There is just something so striking about the appearance of dogs with blue eyes and that makes them highly desirable as pets. Luckily there are many options to choose from for those who would like to own a light-eyed pooch. So here are some of the top dog breeds with...
Swiss Dog Breeds
While many people are familiar with the Saint Bernard and Bernese Mountain Dog, these are just two of the many dog breeds from Switzerland. From herders and hunters to mountain rescue dogs and companions, these canines each offer something different and unique. So...