Looking for a Puli Puppy

Important Advice for those about to search for a Puppy

The Puli is a special breed, and we are fortunate to have such a good track record of honest, dedicated breeders of the Puli. We caution the public, however, when starting the search for a Puli puppy, to consider two important issues:

Is a Puli the right breed for me and my family?

Am I prepared each day to spend the time a Puli requires of humans? The Puli needs not just attention, but mutual interaction that provides both physical and intellectual challenge. If you aren’t going to take that time, or you aren’t able to deal with the special coat, or your family doesn’t appreciate the Puli’s tendency to bark, then this breed is not for you.

Am I dealing with a reputable breeder?

Puppy mills are becoming a problem for many breeds. Often they advertise on the web and make it appear you are buying from a small breeder. They don’t tell you about the lack of health checks of the puppies, the conditions the breedstock live in, and typically they don’t stand behind each puppy if there are problems.

Always check out any breeder offering puppies for sale. This can only help ensure your new puppy comes from a careful breeding program where health, structure and temperament are key goals of any mating.

Here are some questions you should ask of any breeder selling Puli puppies:

• In the United States, is the breeder a member of the Puli Club of America? All its member breeders agree to abide by the PCA Guidelines for Breeders.
• Very Important: Does the breeder have certificates from OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals), not only for both sire and dam, but grandparents/great-grandparents? This helps ensure the breeding stock is free from inheritable disease.
• Do they not breed the bitch at her first season nor breed her more than 2 out of 3 consecutive heat periods, taking the health of the bitch into consideration at all times?
• Does the breeder work with and handle the new puppies each day to begin to socialize them?
• Are they willing to take back the puppy at any time during its lifetime?
• Do they have a written contract that spells out your rights and guarantees as an owner?
• Is the sire a Champion? The dam?

Many of us remember the excitement of anticipating the arrival of our first Puli. But please don’t let that emotion stop you from doing all you can to make sure you’ve found a reputable breeder.