Temperament: Loyal, Intelligent, Active
- Height: 15-18.5 inches
- Weight: 18-29 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
- Group: Miscellaneous Class
The Mudi is an extremely versatile, intelligent, alert, agile, all-purpose Hungarian farm dog. His courage is useful for working the most stubborn livestock. The breed is a loyal protector of property and family members without being overly aggressive.
About the Mudi
The Mudi (pronounced “moodie”) is a medium-sized herding dog from Hungary which has been in existence since the 19th century. It is said the Mudi evolved naturally from crosses of the Puli, Pumi and German Spitz breeds. Today, the Mudi, though very rare, is seen as an active, intelligent, biddable working breed. It is estimated there are no more than a few thousand Mudi worldwide, with the greatest numbers being in Hungary, followed by Finland, and then even scarcer throughout Europe, the U.S, and Canada. The Mudi excels at agility, obedience, and fly-ball, as well as other dog sports. He is a true working breed and shines when herding both cattle and sheep, and has found fame as a search and rescue dog in both Finland and the U.S.
NUTRITION The Mudi should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
GROOMING The Mudi is an easily cared for breed. Occasional baths, a combing or bushing to remove dead hair, and regular nail care are sufficient for this wash-and-wear breed.
EXERCISE Mudi are very energetic dogs. Though they are calm and relaxed in the house, once outside they appreciate a good run. Not surprisingly, a Mudi excels at fly-ball, obedience, herding, and frisbee. They are quite playful and can be mischievous, particularly when it comes to digging. They are also noted for their extraordinary jumping ability. A well-exercised Mudi is a Mudi who tends not to find trouble elsewhere.
TRAINING The Mudi is vocal, alert, energetic, intelligent, biddable, adaptable, and always enthusiastic about any job that needs to be done. Needless to say, these traits make them very trainable and eager to please. The Mudi is also sensibly suspicious and, therefore, an excellent watchdog.
HEALTH The Mudi is an overall healthy breed, and responsible breeders screen their stock for various health conditions.
Recommended Health Tests From Parent Club
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye Examination by a boarded ACVO Ophthalmologist
- Patellar Luxation (Optional)
- Autoimmune thyroiditis (Optional)
- Multiple Drug Sensitivity (Optional)
- Cardiac Evaluation (Optional)
- DNA Repository (Optional)