Breed description: puli
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Canis familiaris ovilis villosus hungaricus Group: 1 FCI number: 55 Breed standard (.doc) |
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HISTORY
The Puli is a Hungarian herding breed of Asiatic origin. His original ancestors most probably came to the Carpatian Basin with the migrating ancient Magyars, who lived as nomads on stock-breeding. Hungarians regard it as the oldest dog breed because there are archeological findings about its ancestor from 4000 – 6000 Bc.
GENERAL APPEARANCE
Puli is a dog of medium size (Dogs 39 - 45 cm, ideal height: 41 - 43 cm; bitches 36 - 42 cm, ideal height 38 - 40 cm) with strong constitution, square build and fine, but not too light bones. Dogs' weight is 13 - 15 kg and bitches weigh 10 - 13 kg.
The somewhat lean body is well muscled all over. The construction of the individual body parts is difficult to judge, as the whole body is covered by a strongly developed coat, tending to form curls and cords. The coat on the head is so profuse that the head appears round and the eyes are covered. The profusely coated tail, curled forward over the back, gives the appearance of the topline rising slightly towards the rear. The body length is equal to the height at the withers. The depth of the brisket is slightly less than half of the height at the withers and the length of the muzzle is one third of the total length of the head.
Black, maszkos fakó (light brown with dark mask) and white are allowed colors. White is judged in shows in its' own class. Pigment is always black: eyes are dark and tip of the muzzle is black. Puli's temperament is very lively and he is extremely quick in learning. Puli loves children and is an excellent watchdog. His present shape has adapted him to sporting use. Puli is very social and loves spending time especially with his own family.
PULIS IN FINLAND
Pulis have been bred in Finland since 1960's. During 1990's about 20 puppies were born annually. Puli is the most popular of Hungarian sheep dogs worldwide but in Finland pumi has become hugely popular.
COAT CARE
Taking care of puli's coat is very easy compared to other breeds with long coats. When soft baby coat has transformed to thicker adult coat and it has been opened to cords it stays in cords with a minor effort. Against common fallacy puli may be washed as often as the owner just wants. Coat can be contoured with scissors; in shows adult dog's coat must be long but neat.