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The Mudi (pronounced Moody), is a hardworking herding dog. The Mudi is a clever, keen, active dog who becomes very attached to its owner and family. The Mudi is aloof and watchful with strangers. Proper early socialization is recommended. Few people have even heard of the Mudi but that is for a good reason; this dog is a rare breed. There are less than a few thousand existing today mostly in Hungary. Fortunately there are Mudi enthusiasts here in America working to help preserve the breed. They have begun to keep strict records regarding their breeding practices utilizing the Foundation Stock Service (FSS) with the AKC working towards full recognition.

 

Origin/History

Originating in Hungary, its origin reaches well back into the 15th and 18th centuries, but the exact time is hard to pinpoint. It is believed the Mudi developed naturally and is the result of a variety of crosses between the Pumi, Puli and German Spitz style breeds. They were favored because of their great ability to herd both sheep and cows as well as be a watchful sentry for farm and home. The Mudi was first discovered as a breed in 1936 by Dr. Dezso Fenyes in Hungary, where it became known as the "driver dog". Mudi's nearly disappeared shortly after their recognition, as many were killed during World War II. The breed became recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1966, followed by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2006.

 

Appearance

Female Mudi should weigh between 18-24 pounds and measure 15-17 inches.

Male Mudi should weigh between 24-29 pounds and measure 16-19 inches.

The coat can range from tight curls to loose waves, with short hair on the face and legs. The predominant color in the breed is black, but they also come in gray, ash, brown, yellow, white and a merle pattern of any of the colors. The ears will always be prick. They can be born with a natural bobtail or any length of tail.

 

Temperament

The Mudi is a versatile farm dog that can hunt, exterminate rodents, act as a capable herding dog and flock guardian. They are great for alerting and protecting their home and family. They have a high pitched bark and can be very loud. In early days, they were sentries for both houses and farms. Barking to alert their families is a natural instinct for them. Although the Mudi loves to play with his family, he is quite reserved with strangers. The Mudi is good with his family's children as well as other pets in the house.

 

Training and Activities

One of the great things about the Mudi is they are very biddable and easy to train. Training must be done in a positive way. Harsh training methods do not work with this breed. Housebreaking can be a problem. They are a very intelligent and active breed that will excel at any performance sport you choose to do with them. Mudi love to dig and jump. This can be problematic as they are good at what they love to do. They can easily dig under a fence or scale a fence.

 

Health and Life Expectancy

The Mudi is generally a very healthy breed. There have been some reports of hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts and patellar luxation. Because of their general good health, the Mudi average life expectancy is 12-14 years. Although there are some that have lived to over 17 years.

 

Grooming

The Mudi is a very easy keeper. They have a utilitarian coat that sheds dirt and does not require frequent bathing. Occasional brushing is sufficient and no trimming is to be done on their coat. They are minimal shedders and their coat does not matt. Their nails need to be trimmed and their teeth cleaned.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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