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Mudi
Herding breed from Hungary
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Mudi
The Mudi is a medium-sized Hungarian herding dog with a wavy to curly coat. It is known for being energetic, intelligent, alert, loyal, adaptable, and work-focused. This breed is best suited for active owners who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation. While generally versatile, individual temperaments may vary. Estimated adult weight ranges from 8 to 13 kg, height from 41 to 47 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 14 years. The Mudi's recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Mudi at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHerding
OriginHungary
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight8–13 kilogram
Female weight8–13 kilogram
Male height41–47 centimetre
Female height41–47 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Mudi was developed in Hungary during the 19th and early 20th centuries as a versatile all-purpose herding and farm dog. It likely originated from spontaneous crosses of Puli, Pumi, and German Spitz-type dogs. The breed nearly became extinct after World War II but was preserved by dedicated breeders. Official recognition has been granted by some registries, such as the FCI and AKC, but recognition status varies by registry. The exact timeline and details of its development are not fully documented.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
8–13 kilogramAdult weight41–47 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesWavy, CurlyCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Energeticintelligentalertloyaladaptablework-focused
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Mudi-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
Mudi puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight8–13 kilogramAdult female weight8–13 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Mudi?
The Mudi is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight is 8–13 kg, height is 41–47 cm, and lifespan is 12–14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Mudi's temperament like?
The Mudi is described as energetic, intelligent, alert, loyal, adaptable, and work-focused. However, individual dogs may differ, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
How much exercise does a Mudi need?
The Mudi has a high energy level (energy score 5 out of 5). It requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation, such as herding activities, dog sports, or long walks.
What are the grooming requirements for a Mudi?
The Mudi has a wavy to curly coat with a grooming score of 3 (moderate). Regular brushing is needed to prevent mats, and shedding is low (score 2).
Is the Mudi suitable for apartment living?
The Mudi has a low apartment suitability score (2 out of 5). It is best suited to homes with a yard or access to open spaces due to its high energy and need for activity.
Is the Mudi good with children and other dogs?
The Mudi has moderate child suitability (3) and dog compatibility (3) scores. With proper socialization, it can get along with children and other dogs, but individual behavior varies.
Where does the Mudi originate from?
The Mudi originates from Hungary, where it was developed as a herding and farm dog. Its exact origins are uncertain, but it likely involves crosses of Puli, Pumi, and German Spitz-type dogs.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.