Puli: Size, Weight & Temperament

The Puli is watchful, high-spirited and eager to learn, with a pronounced drive for exercise and activity. It's often wary of strangers and vocally announces anything out of the ordinary.

As a herding breed, the Puli needs plenty of exercise, mental stimulation and ideally a job such as dog sports or herding trials. Understimulation quickly shows up as excessive barking or restlessness.

The signature corded coat must be split into strands by hand from puppyhood onward to prevent large matted pads from forming; this is time-consuming and takes years to fully develop. Some owners instead brush the coat and keep it short, which departs from the breed standard.

Commonly described health concerns include hip dysplasia and eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy. Skin problems under matted cords can occur with inadequate care.