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Puli
Herding breed from Hungary
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Puli
The Puli is a medium-sized herding dog from Hungary, known for its distinctive corded coat that resembles dreadlocks. This breed is intelligent, energetic, loyal, alert, devoted, and playful. While individual temperaments vary, Pulik are generally quick and spirited. Their unique coat requires high grooming effort (score 5/5) but sheds very little (score 1/5). Estimated adult weight ranges from 13.5 to 16 kg for both sexes, and height from 40 to 44 cm. Lifespan is estimated between 10 and 16 years. The breed's energy level is high (score 4/5), and trainability is also high (score 4/5). Suitability with children is rated 4/5, with other dogs 3/5, and for apartment living 3/5. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Puli at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHerding
OriginHungary
Lifespan10–16 years
Male weight13.5–16 kilogram
Female weight13.5–16 kilogram
Male height40–44 centimetre
Female height40–44 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Puli is an ancient Hungarian sheepdog breed, believed to have been brought by Magyar tribes over 1000 years ago. Traditionally, it was used for herding and guarding livestock on the Hungarian plains. Its unique corded coat is thought to have provided protection from predators and harsh weather. The breed faced near decimation during World War II but was saved by dedicated breeding programs. However, specific dates and historical events beyond these general accounts are not confirmed in the available evidence. The breed's origins are firmly in Hungary, and it is classified in the Herding group.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
13.5–16 kilogramAdult weight40–44 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesCordedCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentenergeticloyalalertdevotedplayful
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
Higher coat-maintenance demand
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 Puli-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
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 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: 4
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Growth chart
Puli 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 weight13.5–16 kilogramAdult female weight13.5–16 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 Puli?
The Puli is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 13.5 to 16 kg, and height is 40 to 44 cm. Estimated lifespan is 10 to 16 years. These are modelled estimates.
What is the Puli's temperament like?
The breed is described as intelligent, energetic, loyal, alert, devoted, and playful. However, individual dogs may vary. They are generally quick and spirited.
How much exercise does a Puli need?
The Puli has a high energy level (score 4/5), so it likely requires regular exercise. Specific exercise needs are not detailed, but as a herding breed, it benefits from activities that engage both body and mind.
What are the grooming requirements for a Puli?
Grooming effort is very high (score 5/5) due to the corded coat, which requires careful maintenance to prevent matting. Shedding is very low (score 1/5).
Is a Puli suitable for families with children or other pets?
Child suitability is rated 4/5, indicating generally good compatibility, but supervision is recommended. Dog compatibility is 3/5, suggesting moderate tolerance; early socialization is important.
Can a Puli live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3/5, meaning it may adapt but likely needs sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. A home with a yard may be more ideal.
Where does the Puli originate from?
The Puli originates from Hungary. It is an ancient herding breed brought by Magyar tribes over 1000 years ago, traditionally used for herding and guarding livestock.
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.