The purchase of a puppy is always a very difficult thing, not to mention being a big commitment both financially and time wise. In the case of Hungarian Pulis their life span can be in excess of fifteen years.

Before buying a puppy, ask yourself some important questions and answer them honestly. If the puppy is to be a family companion, include other members in these discussions.

*Why do I want a dog? As a companion for yourself or family, to train for obedience, agility, herding or to show? Do you want a male or a female?

*Think about where you live, are you likely to have any problems with your neighbours? Do you have a suitable securely fenced garden/yard? Does this area have any obstacles, such as a pond, which could be a hazard to a young puppy?

*Consider the number of people in your household, and other pets that you might have.

*Is everyone in the household in agreement with having a puppy?

*A puppy, and especially an HUNGARIAN PULI will not take too kindly to being left at home for long periods each day, so it is important that there is someone around to take care of him during the day.

*How much time will you have for your dog? Will you have the time the exercise your dog and take him to basic obedience classes? Have you sufficient time to care for his coat and bathe him?

*If you do purchase a puppy, how do you feel about taking him to puppy socialization and/or training classes?

*Have you seriously considered the financial side of owning a dog? Insurance is available to cover some veterinary and third party costs, which is highly advisable. Costs vary according to the type of cover required. But this does not cover routine veterinary care, such as yearly boosters, expenses incurred in having hips x-rayed and scored, eye tests etc. Then there is the cost of good quality food for your puppy, together with bedding, toys and training classes.

Think carefully about the breed. Learn as much as you possibly can, try to visit a number of breeders to see both adult dogs and puppies. Or, attend a dog show where the breed is scheduled.

Unfortunately there are not many good informative books available on the HUNGARIAN PULI, but most reputable breeders will be happy to answer your questions.

Having decided that a Hungarian Puli is the breed that you want, you can now start your search for a breeder.

When you have found a breeder, they may wish to ask you as many questions as you want to ask them. This is because a breeder who has a genuine care for the breed will be anxious to see that the puppies go to really go homes, and a home for life.

No doubt the questions asked will be along the same lines as those we have suggested that you ask yourself, about your family, your home, the financial commitment and your ability to care for the puppy.

It is recommended that when you visit the breeder, you ask to see the dam as well as the puppies. The sire as well if possible, but often this will entail a visit elsewhere as often he will not be living at the same address.

Satisfy yourself that all the puppies look healthy and alert, that they do not shrink into a corner and have been housed in a warm, conformable and hygienic environment. Watch the mother to see what type of temperament she has. Pulis are naturally wary of strangers and a dam with her puppies will obviously show signs of being protective towards them.

NEVER buy a puppy from an unreliable source, such as a pet shop, dealer, puppy farmer or a breeder whom who do not feel happy about.

The breeder should satisfy you, by answering all your questions on the breed, details (pedigree) of the puppies, welfare, feeding, basic

training etc.

Plus you should ask to see, and be shown, the hip score and eye test results of both the sire and dam, and also if possible all of the grandparents. If these are not readily available, or excuses given as to why they are not - think carefully!

DO NOT commit yourself to purchasing a puppy on your first visit!

If possible see other litters, or at least take time out to carefully consider the commitment you are about to enter, a respectable breeder will be more than understanding.

Puppy Fact Files

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