Puli
Pulis are agile herding dogs known for a corded coat and a lively, intelligent temperament. They enjoy training and excel in dog sports, thriving in homes that provide daily exercise and mental challenges. Pulis can be alert and vocal, and their herding instincts may appear in play. Their coat can be corded or brushed out, but either approach requires dedicated grooming knowledge. Reward-based training, socialization, and consistent enrichment help Pulis become devoted companions with a unique look and a hardworking spirit.
The Puli is a medium dog in the Herding group, known for Energetic, Smart, Loyal. Adults typically weigh 25-35 lbs and stand 16-17 in, with a lifespan around 10-15 years.
Quick facts
- Group: Herding
- Size: medium
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Weight: 25-35 lbs
- Height: 16-17 in
- Temperament: Energetic, Smart, Loyal, Alert
Temperament & day-to-day life
Temperament helps you predict what daily life with this breed may feel like. The Puli is often described as Energetic, Smart, Loyal, Alert. Individual dogs vary, but these traits are a solid starting point when you’re planning training, enrichment, and routines.
If you’re researching this breed because you’re trying to identify your own dog, use temperament as supporting evidence—not the final verdict. Compare size, proportions, and behavior patterns, then confirm with a photo using the AI dog breed identifier.
Training & exercise
Herding breeds were bred to move livestock and make quick decisions. Many are observant, energetic, and happiest when they have structured work.
Training tends to click when you keep sessions short, frequent, and goal-oriented. Teach calm behaviors early so drive doesn’t turn into reactivity.
Most herding dogs need both physical outlets and brain work (training games, puzzle toys, structured play) to feel settled at home.
History
Pulis originated in Hungary as herding dogs, valued for agility and responsiveness. Their distinctive corded coat helped protect them in harsh weather while working with livestock.
Care tips
Good care is less about perfection and more about consistency. Start with simple routines you can keep up—daily movement, a predictable feeding plan, and regular check-ins for ears, nails, and skin.
- Give them daily exercise and training; intelligent herders need outlets.
- Learn proper coat care—corded coats require separation and maintenance.
- Start socialization early to build confidence and reduce barking at novelty.
- Teach impulse control to manage herding behaviors around movement.
- Check cords and skin routinely to prevent hidden mats or irritation.
Similar breeds to compare
Many breeds share similar silhouettes and features. If you’re comparing AI results or deciding between breeds, it helps to read a few profiles side by side. Common look-alikes and close cousins to the Puli include Bouvier des Flandres, Old English Sheepdog, Border Collie, Belgian Sheepdog.
When you compare, focus on structure (muzzle length, ear set, body proportions) as much as coat color. Then confirm by looking at temperament and daily care needs.
FAQ
How big do Pulis get?
Most adult Pulis fall around 25-35 lbs and stand 16-17 in. Genetics, diet, and activity level all influence where an individual dog lands within that range.
How long do Pulis live?
The typical lifespan is 10-15 years. Preventive vet care, healthy weight, and consistent daily exercise are some of the biggest factors that support longevity.
What is the Puli temperament like?
Many owners describe this breed as Energetic, Smart, Loyal, Alert. Early socialization and reward-based training help those traits show up as calm confidence at home and on walks.
How can I identify a Puli from a photo?
Upload a clear photo (ideally with the full body visible) to our dog breed identifier. Use the results as a starting point, then compare likely matches in the breed directory.