How to Groom a Puli?

How to Groom a Puli? (Expert Guide)

With a distinctive corded coat and lively personality, the Puli is a unique and exciting breed. The cord coat of the Hungarian Puli is a natural formation. Over time, the weather-resistant top coat intertwines with the softer undercoat to form cords,  which come in different types.

Full string fur develops over a long period. For example,  floor-length fur can take up to five years to grow. That Is why it is worth remembering that the first part of the string will stay long!

Despite their intimidating appearance, they are very intelligent, docile, and loyal. If you have the right information and tools, you will be able to groom your Puli so that its appearance matches its loving personality.

 In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of grooming your dog to keep his coat healthy, clean and looking great.

Coat Color and Types

The fur colors of the Puli are black, sometimes rusty, white, and shades of apricot and grey. Ropes are divided into different types: tight, narrow, round ropes; looser, thicker, round strings; wide, flat, ribbon wires; and narrow, flatter ribbons.

 The main thing is that the strings are the same type throughout Puli, with slightly thinner, shorter strings on the head and ears.

A floor-length presentation coat requires a lot of regular maintenance and a lot of care to keep the cords intact. These dogs have evolved their fur for a reason. During their work in the wild, their fur protects them from extreme weather conditions and dangers.

Equipment needed

There are certain tools required to get the desired results while keeping your dog comfortable.

Here is the list of tools.

• Slicker brush
• Metal comb
• Detangling spray
• Shampoo
• Conditioner (optional)
• Towels and a hand dryer
• Scissors and clippers
• Ear cleaner
• Nail clippers

Procedure for Grooming Puli

Brushing

Start by brushing your Puli’s coat with a smoother brush. Start at the head and work your way down to the tail, making sure you brush down to the skin. It helps remove loose hair and prevent mats from forming.

Bathing

The Puli does not need frequent bathing, but when it is time, use dog shampoo and conditioner. Rinse thoroughly to remove product residue that can lead to a dull finish.

It should be washed again and again to ensure that all residues are removed.

Drying

After bathing, gently pat your Puli’s coat with absorbent towels to remove excess water. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, as this can cause matting.

Natural drying takes a lot of time. A cage is necessary, as are plenty of towels. Finish by using a  dryer on low heat.  A dog dryer can help speed things up, but the drying process can still take a long time because the cords are quite spongy.

While drying, carefully remove the wires to allow them to dry properly.

Apply baby-oil

After the coat is dry, a mixture of one-third baby oil and two-thirds water can be sprayed directly onto the coat. This spray can be used to tighten the coat between baths.

Separate cords

When the Puli is completely dry, remove the wires with a metal comb. Start at the base and work your way up. Be gentle so as not to pull or make your dog uncomfortable. This step helps preserve the appearance of the wires and prevents fading.

Trimming

Use scissors or clippers to cut the hair around the Puli’s eyes, feet, and tail. This not only improves their appearance but also helps prevent debris from getting stuck in the wires.

Beard maintenance

Check the beard, mouth, and around the eyes. Food can often stick to the beard – sometimes it is possible to remove it with a comb or cut the beard short.

Ears and nails maintenance

Clean your Puli’s ears regularly with a dog ear cleaner. This helps prevent ear infections, which are common in dogs with floppy ears like the Puli.

 Trim the Puli’s nails as needed to prevent overgrowth. Be careful not to cut too close to the faucet as this can be painful for your dog.

Paws

Check the paws, also between the pads. Trim away any mats on the legs, as well as excess hair or long leashes that could trip the dog while walking or running.

Tips

• Start grooming your Puli young so he gets used to the process.
• Be patient and gentle as the process can take time.
• Use positive reinforcement and rewards to make therapy a positive experience.

• Consider the help of a professional groomer, especially for complicated styles.
• Follow a regular maintenance schedule to prevent mats and tangles.

Conclusion

Grooming a Puli can seem like a daunting task due to its unique conductive coat, but with the right tools, techniques, and patience, it can become an enjoyable bonding experience.

Regular grooming is the key to keeping your Puli’s coat healthy and its iconic look. By following the steps in this guide, you will ensure that your Puli looks and feels their best, allowing them to continue to charm everyone they meet with their unique beauty.