Trainability

This breed is highly intelligent and independent that can make him a challenge to train especially for the unexperienced dog handler. As a traditional herding dog he can become protective towards the ones he loves and weary of strangers. With this in mind training and socialisation is very important. Keep training light and fun and not long and boring or your Puli will most certainly find something far more interesting to do. They can be bossy at times, even in the gentlest of ways, and thrive on consistency. Like with all dogs early socialisation is key. Provide as many sights, sounds and experiences as possible in the early weeks to ensure your Puli grows into a well-rounded and happy dog. This breed can excel in many dog sports due to their herding nature and willingness to learn.

Grooming

Your pup will not develop their cords until around one year of age and before this time will need regularly brushing to keep the coat tangle free. The cords may also need to be separated to help their development. The cords also need to be kept dry or may begin to smell. The cords begin to form by eight months of age and should be fully formed by two. It’s important to keep the forming cords by hand and to also trim their ends when needed so they do not drag on the floor to collect dust and dirt. Grooming is a case of separating the cords to remove any debris and to stop them from matting which can cause discomfort for you dog. Your dog may not need ‘grooming’ as such but, it is important to keep the cords clean and free from parasites. Bathing is also a long task. Ask your breeder for advice on how to best bathe your Puli. Teeth cleaning and nail clipping is also advisable from puppyhood.

Exercise Requirements

Being a working breed at heart the Puli does require a good amount of exercise and running time to keep them happy. They love to play and exercise and will enjoy a good brisk walk in the mornings followed by a good vigorous game or off-leash romp in the afternoon. They will simple adore a weekly dog sports session and will thrive in sports such as agility. This breed loves to play and will happily learn interactive games to keep them active such as fetch.

Intelligence

The Puli is very intelligent and needs to have their exercise and training needs me to starve off problematic behaviour and boredom. Like with all intelligent dog breeds, if left to their own entertainment strategies they will not make desirable pets. For a bored dog, barking, digging chewing and escaping are wonderful forms of fun. The Puli is also well known for their amazing jumping skills so if your pup is bored they may just clear an impressively high fence to go looking for stimulation. Consider clever boredom busting techniques and giving your dog a ‘job’ to do when you are not at home.

Family Friendly

When socialised correctly this breed makes a wonderful family companion and will happily accept other pets and family member. Like with all dog breeds it’s vital you teach your children how to correctly interact with a dog, and train your dog how to correctly play with a child. Supervision is also paramount in all dog/children relationships. The breed is known to be protective of his pack and those that he loves in a gentle and loving way…more herding them away from danger.

Indoor/Outdoor

This breed will benefit from a yard to stretch those legs and burn off energy when you are not around. However, they are masters at jumping, so a tall and secure fence is a must. Check fences daily to ensure no new escape routes have developed. Like with all dogs, the breed will not take well to endless days alone or being locked in a kennel area. They will pine for the love and attention of their family and pack. Always provide ample weatherproof areas and ample water. Remembering that your Puli’s cords will need to be kept fairly dry to prevent smelling so protecting them against soaking rain is important in preventing a smelly dog.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.