Puli Breed Description

An Owner's Puli Description
This is Pookie and he is a real cowboy. He is not what Americans think of as a cattle dog, but he might just be the best in the business. He herds our cows as we move them from the high pasture down to the lower grasslands, and he guards them as well.

He has never had to go toe-to-toe with a bear, but that's generally because the bears really don't know what to make of Pookie. He can be vocal and a bit scary to any animal that doesn't know him. With his wild and wooly look, along with very bouncy and erratic movements, most wild intruders have decided just to move on rather than risk an encounter.

Pookie did have to prove himself once, when a lone wolf had thoughts of snatching a young calf from the herd. In daylight and in plain view, a wolf, (evidently trailing us for some time) decided that a cow and calf toward the rear of the herd would make easy prey. Pookie had different ideas. Running alongside the herd and keeping them in line, he suddenly bolted to the rear, barking and going between the calf and wolf. I got my horse turned around fast enough to see Pookie and the wolf going at it in an all out fight.

The wolf really didn't have a chance to do any harm since Pookie's thick, heavy coat prevented the predator from getting anywhere close to flesh. Though much smaller, Pookie taught that wolf a lesson: "These cows are mine, so don't ever mess with this cowboy!"

Introduction

Known as one of the older dog breeds, the Puli originated in Asia about 800 A. D. It was used to guard and protect sheep. This breed appeared on American shores around 1930. The Puli can measure up to 18 inches at the shoulder and is well known for its tightly corded coat. This dog makes a great family pet and does require above average grooming to stay in good health.

Colors

The original Puli was a multi-colored breed but today black is considered the predominate color. You can, however, find Puli colors such as white, gray, and apricot. The gray and apricot are somewhat rare.

Living Area

One of the benefits to the Puli is that the breed can do well in many different circumstances. The Puli will adapt to almost any setting from urban apartment or a isolated farm. Because of this adaptability they are excellent pets for those living in smaller homes as well as for those who live on bigger acreage homes. The Puli are suited to all climates. They live quite well in areas such as Florida where the heat is high and they do equally well in colder climates such as found in mountainous areas. It should be noted that they enjoy being out of doors when possible and will happily play outside if given the chance. Because of their quiet nature they make great pets for those living in apartments or in close quarters with others. Their lack of aggression is also a benefit in that they do not start fights with other dogs unless provoked.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Puli breeders with puppies for sale.