Puli
Hungary, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 36–44 cm
- Weight
- 10–15 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Agile
- Watchful
- Intelligent
- Devoted
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Puli
The Puli is a Hungarian herding dog famous for its coat of long, dense cords. It was developed to guard and drive sheep on the Hungarian plains, with the thick coat giving protection against weather and predators. It is a compact, agile medium-sized dog, usually black, though other solid colours occur. It is quick, lively and loud.
Temperament
Lively, intelligent and devoted, with a watchful side. It may be reserved with strangers and bark to give warning. It tends to bond strongly and needs firm but kind training.
Exercise
Needs daily exercise and plenty of mental work such as agility, herding or training games. An hour or more of activity is a good guide.
Grooming
The corded coat takes real commitment: cords must be separated by hand as they form, bathed carefully and dried thoroughly. Some owners keep it clipped short.
Care & wellbeing
Dry the coat thoroughly after washing to avoid dampness in the cords. Check ears and skin under the coat.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 12.5 kg adult- Water
- 500 ml–750 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 750 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Puli
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Hungarian herding dog brought to the Great Plain by migrating peoples and used for centuries to move and guard sheep. Its distinctive corded coat gave protection against weather and predators. Lively and alert, it remains a capable working and companion dog.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye conditions
- Patellar luxation
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
- Patella checks
Not every Puli is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Puli right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Puli get?
Adult Pulis typically stand about 36–44 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 10–15 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Pulis live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Puli need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Puli need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Pulis easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Pulis shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Pulis good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Puli live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Pulis have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye conditions, patellar luxation. Not every Puli is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Hungary
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954