Pop quiz time! Don’t worry, it’s a simple one. Here is the question; What is black or white, cute, fluffy, and looks a little like a Swedish mop? If you guessed, a Puli, you’re right!
The Puli, a distinct breed hailing from Hungary, is more than just a pooch with an unusual coat. Historically employed as a herding dog, the Puli’s lively disposition, disciplined nature, and unique corded fur have made it a family favourite worldwide.
Now, you might be curious about one of the most frequently asked questions about this breed- Do Pulis shed? I mean, they do have an incredibly distinctive mop-like appearance, which could make many wonder about the shedding situation.
Well, brace yourselves! The answer is quite surprising, indeed. Pulis have what’s known as a ‘non-shedding’ or ‘low shedding’ coat. Shocking, isn’t it? Allow me to break this down. While technically, all dogs shed to some degree, a Puli’s coat can be better compared to human hair. Like humans, Pulis lose their hair very slowly and it often goes unnoticed.
At a glance, you might think your Puli’s corded coat resembles dreadlocks. And you are kind of right. It’s comprised of dense double-layer fur: a woolly undercoat and a wavy or curly outer layer. When these two hairs combine, they naturally weave together over time to form cords or flocks.
Those cords are not just for show- they are the secret to the Puli’s minimal shedding. As the dog grows and older hairs die off, they simply become woven into the cords, thus preventing the fur from falling around your house. Consider it nature’s built-in vacuum cleaner!
A newborn Puli has a soft and fluffy coat – but by the time they are around nine months, the adult coat starts to grow. It’s during this transitional period when the cords begin to form, and this is when they need your help. You can help separate and form the cords after bathing your Puli to ensure sure there are no tangles or mats. Once the cords are fully formed, surprisingly, Pulis require little grooming.
But remember, while the Puli’s unique coat might be a plus for those who dread vacuuming, it doesn’t mean they are a low maintenance breed. They need an owner dedicated to maintaining their cords, especially when they are young. Additionally, like many dog breeds, Pulis can also suffer from allergies and skin conditions. This means regular vet checks are important to keep your Puli healthy and comfortable.
Let’s talk about the Puli’s predisposition toward developing a spectacular, floor-sweeping coat. Unlike some other breeds, Pulis sport their corded coats thanks to genetic luck. But that doesn’t mean every Puli will develop floor-length cords. The length and thickness of a Puli’s cords largely depend on their overall health, diet, and care.
For Pulis living in warmer climates, it’s okay to trim their cords to prevent them from overheating. No matter how glamorous, their health and comfort should be your top priority.
Besides the shedding aspect, there are more considerations when it comes to owning a Puli. Pulis are typically intelligent, agile, and excellent watchdogs, but they can also be stubborn. Training could be challenging for a first-time dog owner. But with the right guidance and techniques, your Puli might just become the talk of the dog park.
If you’ve been dreading the thought of tumbleweeds of dog hair roaming your living room, a Puli might be your perfect match. They embody the magical combination of cuteness and low-shedding, and yes, they look like an adorable floor mop!
So, the next time someone quizzes you about whether Pulis shed or not, you can chuckle and enlighten them on this extravagant woolly wonder. Remember, owing a dog like a Puli could be exciting, enjoyable, but it comes with its requirements and responsibilities. So always ensure you are fully prepared and informed about the breed before adding one to your family pack.
Whether you’re a dog grooming enthusiast who relishes the challenge of maintaining a Puli’s unique coat or a dog lover tired of running your vacuum cleaner around your home daily, adopting a Puli could bring a fascinating and joyful twist to your life.
