Introduction
The Puli is a charming medium-sized dog breed instantly recognizable by its unique long, corded coat. Originating in Hungary, these Pulik (the plural of Puli) were historically prized as skilled herding dogs and vigilant guardians. Their lineage likely traces back to Tibetan Terriers, brought to Hungary around 900 CE.
Known for their intelligence, affection, and deep loyalty, Puli dogs form close bonds with their family members. Adult Pulik stand about 16–17 inches tall and weigh between 25 and 35 pounds. They typically enjoy a lifespan of 10–15 years, bringing joy for many memorable years.
Caring for a Puli
Hailing from a herding background, the Puli is a bright, energetic dog that thrives on physical activity and mental challenges. Without sufficient stimulation, a bored Puli can become quite vocal. To keep your Puli content and balanced, aim for at least one hour of exercise or play daily.
While Pulik do not shed, their distinctive corded coat demands daily grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Because their dense coat can cause overheating, be especially cautious in warmer weather, ensuring your Puli has plenty of shade and fresh water. Additionally, their fur becomes heavy when wet, so supervise carefully if your Puli enjoys swimming.
Puli Health Issues
Generally robust, Pulik have relatively few breed-specific health problems. Nevertheless, like all dogs, they can be prone to certain conditions.
Bear in mind that accidents and illnesses can affect dogs of any breed. Investing in pet insurance can help offset costs associated with unexpected veterinary care.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint is loose, causing gradual damage to cartilage and bone. This often leads to painful osteoarthritis, resulting in limping, stiffness, and difficulty standing.
Veterinarians typically advise gentle exercise and joint supplements for affected dogs. For pain management, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or newer treatments like monoclonal antibody injections may be recommended. In more severe cases, surgery might be necessary to improve mobility and comfort.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing discomfort and an increased risk of arthritis. Dogs affected by this may display a distinctive bunny-hopping gait, hopping on three legs.
Some dogs can realign their kneecap naturally, but many require supplements, anti-inflammatory medications, or pain injections. Surgery is sometimes advised for more serious cases to restore proper joint function.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) encompasses a group of inherited eye diseases that progressively damage the retina’s light-sensitive cells. Early signs often include difficulty seeing in dim light, eventually leading to complete blindness.
Though there is currently no cure for PRA, prompt veterinary consultation is essential if you observe any changes in your Puli’s vision or eye appearance.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a neurological disease that attacks the spinal cord, initially causing weakness and difficulties in the hind legs. Over time, the condition can lead to paralysis of these limbs.
A DNA test is available to identify dogs carrying this condition, and affected dogs should not be bred. While no cure exists, physical therapy and acupuncture may slow progression and improve quality of life.
What To Feed a Puli
To ensure your Hungarian Puli gets a nutritionally complete, balanced diet, choose dog foods certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Puli puppies require diets specially formulated for growing dogs or all life stages. Around their first birthday, transition your Puli gradually from puppy to adult food to support their changing nutritional needs.
How To Feed a Puli
Most Pulik thrive on two measured meals daily. Puppies do best when fed about three scheduled meals throughout the day to maintain steady energy and prevent low blood sugar.
How Much Should You Feed a Puli?
Caloric requirements differ based on your dog’s size, metabolism, health status, neutering, and activity level. Feeding guidelines on packaging offer a helpful starting point, but consulting your veterinarian is the best way to tailor food portions for your individual Puli.
Nutritional Tips for Pulik
A healthy Puli diet balances carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Many Pulik benefit from omega-3 fatty acids—found in fish oil, joint supplements, and specialized formulas—that serve as natural anti-inflammatory agents supporting skin, coat, joints, kidneys, and heart health. Discuss supplementation with your vet to best meet your dog’s needs.
Puli Personality and Temperament
The Puli’s herding and guarding heritage strongly shapes its personality. According to the National Puli Club, these dogs are intelligent, devoted, and often reserved with strangers.
When properly introduced, most Pulik are gentle and patient with children who understand how to respect dogs. Teaching Pulik that children should not be herded is important to prevent unwanted chasing behaviors.
Puli Behavior
Active and playful by nature, Pulik’s herding instincts can prompt them to try rounding up kids or smaller pets. They may bark frequently if understimulated, emphasizing the need for adequate exercise and engagement.
Puli Training
With their sharp minds and eagerness to please, Pulik often respond well to training, though some can demonstrate a streak of independence. Positive reinforcement and playful training games yield the best results.
Begin training your Puli puppy early, and maintain consistent practice throughout their life. Early socialization is crucial to help your Puli become confident and comfortable around new people and environments, counterbalancing their natural wariness as former farm watchdogs.
Fun Activities for Pulik
- Agility courses
- Herding exercises
- Obedience training
- Nose work games
- Playing fetch
- Daily walks
- Hiking adventures
Puli Grooming Guide
Most adult Pulik boast a striking long, corded double coat, coming in shades like black, silver, and white. These dense cords form naturally but demand considerable care from their owners.
Coat Care
Puli puppies start life with soft fur that gradually begins forming cords around 8 to 10 months of age. This transition involves fur clumping together, which must be meticulously separated by hand to encourage distinct, tidy cords.
This process continues over several months as cords lengthen and tighten. Some Pulik’s coats cord naturally without much intervention, but regular maintenance is important.
Bathe your Puli as needed, and after washing, carefully squeeze water from the cords instead of rubbing, which could cause matting.
Skin Care
Because moisture trapped in the cords can lead to mildew and skin infections, thoroughly drying your Puli after swimming or bathing—using a fan or blow dryer—is essential.
Eye Care
While Pulik don’t require special eye care routines, their predisposition to PRA means any changes in their eyes, such as discharge, cloudiness, or squinting, should be promptly evaluated by a veterinarian.
Ear Care
Regular cleaning of your Puli’s ears with vet-approved solutions helps prevent infections. Consult your veterinarian on the ideal cleaning frequency and watch for signs like odor or debris buildup.
Take extra care when handling the cords around their ears, as this area is sensitive with delicate skin.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Pulik generally form strong attachments to their families and make excellent companion animals. Due to their watchdog instincts, they may bark to protect their home or loved ones, but regular mental and physical activity can help mitigate excessive vocalization.
Though they shed minimally, their corded coat requires daily upkeep. Pet parents must also be mindful of the Puli’s tendency to overheat because of their thick double coat, ensuring they stay cool, especially in warm climates.
Are Pulik good pets?
Absolutely! Pulik are wonderful family dogs when provided with adequate mental stimulation, exercise, and early socialization.
Do Puli dogs naturally have dreadlocks?
Pulik develop mats that, with careful hand-separation, form long cords resembling dreadlocks. Puppies have soft coats that don’t cord until around 8–10 months, with cords tightening and matting as they mature.
How rare is a Puli?
Pulik remain a rarity in the United States, largely due to their unique grooming needs. In 2023, the national breed registry ranked the Puli 164th out of 200 popular dog breeds.
How much do Puli dogs cost?
Acquiring a Puli puppy from a reputable breeder usually costs between $1,000 and $3,000, with prices varying based on lineage. Adoption opportunities may also be available through breed-specific rescue organizations.
