We recently covered some Hungarian dog breeds namely the Pumi and the Kuvasz. Today, we will be discussing their distant cousin, the Mudi. The Mudi dog breed is rare, even in Hungary, and comes under the category of herding dogs. Find out if this dog breed is right for you.
Facts about the Mudi
- Mudi dog breed was recognized by the Hungarian Kennel Club in 1936. Prior to that, these dogs were clumped together with the Puli and Pumi dogs.
- It is believed that the Pumik are quite ancient and may have even existed even in the 15th century. However, the actual development of the breed began only in the 19th century and that too quite by accident. There were no standards set and the breed just developed on its own.
- For years, the Mudi was overshadowed by its more popular cousins: the Komondor and the Puli.
- During the Second World War, the breed was almost wiped out. Hungary then started focusing on its development in the 1960s. Today, although considered among the rare dog breeds, they are recognized by many major kennel clubs around the world including in Canada, United Kingdom, and the USA. Apart from Hungary, there are many Mudi breeders residing in Finland as a result of which, the Mudi population is the second highest in this country.
- Mudik resemble the Airedale terriers and German Shepherd but also have a bit of ‘Retriever’ thrown in.
- A variety of coat colors are available in the breed with the blue merle, which is quite rare, being the most popular. Other colors include black, shades of fawn, brown, white, and blue-gray.
- Size – Male dogs are between 16-18.5 inches and weight about 24-29 lb, while bitches are between 15-17.5 inches and 18 to 24 lb.
- The coat is wavy or curly with a soft undercoat.
- Head is wedge-shaped with short, triangular ears. They have a muscular jaw with a scissor bite.
- Mudi’s tail is long and curved and often bobbed.
Mudis are often compared with the Collie breeds because of their excellent herding skills. No predator can stand a chance with a flock when there is Mudi guarding it; and unlike collies, Mudik won’t hesitate to take the predator down. A wild boar is no match for a Mudi’s strength. And despite being just up to 19 inches in height; they are amazing to watch in a fight! Their fearlessness is legendary!
Having a natural herding instinct makes it difficult for them to ‘clock-out’ of it. So don’t be surprised if you find your Mudi herding young children or other pets as well. This behavior can be overcome with proper training. This small dog loves being indoors with its family but, at the same time, needs daily ‘outdoors’ time. A house with a fenced yard is ideal for this dog.
Overall, the Mudi is extremely loyal and protective of its family but could appear to be a bit standoffish with strangers. They make excellent work dogs, guard dogs, and family companions. While a dog’s temperament is important in a family setting, it can make the difference between life and death in the work setting. If you want your Mudi to be a working dog for herding your cattle/flock, you must work with a breeder who raises working Mudik. There is a test known as the Finnish Character Test which was developed in 1976. It evaluates a dog in 9 different areas and is a dog between 2 and 6 years of age is eligible for it.
Mudis are intelligent dogs and they respond positively to praise and attention. However, many people mistaken the breed’s good-nature for dim-wittedness. In reality, a Mudi keeps a close eye on his surroundings and knows exactly who or what belongs in it. Due to this uncanny intelligence and a stubborn streak, many owners find it difficult to talk a Mudi into a situation that he feels may not be in his best interest.
Mudis form close bonds with their owners. They are good with children and other pets but could be aggressive towards strange dogs. They are also vocal, prone to barking, and to jump over fences and dig excessively.
Where to find a Mudi
One of the most important things to do when buying a Mudi puppy is that you should have confidence and comfort in the abilities of his current owner or breeder. Do not rush into the process of buying your Mudi. Get to know the owner or breeder and, if possible, visit their kennels. The area should be well-ventilated and kept clean. All mature dogs should appear well-groomed and healthy. It is natural for the adult dogs to bark at you but they should not be aggressive. Each dog should appear happy when the breeder approaches. Avoid buying from a breeder of whom the puppies appear frightened of or disinterested in.
All reputed Mudi breeders will provide buyers with CERF or BAER certification for tests conducted to rule out eye, hip, and ear problems. To find top breeders of the mudi visit the official website of the Hungarian Mudi Club of America.
Training a Mudi
Mudis are challenging to train but if you start early and know what you are doing, you can get a well-behaved dog. Positive training from day one, along with socialization to people and animals can help you create a well-behaved Mudi. Housetrain your pet as soon as he comes home. If you want him to be a working dog, then you must also train him to different working styles of sheep and cattle. Your pet may not be a ratter but he will still lend a hand if you have a vermin problem on your farm. Many Mudik are also trained as search and rescue dogs.
This is an active, athletic and courageous breed that needs an active owner. Any type of exercise will do for your Mudi, as long as you take him out to expend that energy. Exercise is also necessary to prevent unwanted behaviors. Swimming comes naturally to this breed: it is a great exercise and also gentle on the joints. Mudik also excel at dog sports.
Rarely is there a need to dedicate a lot of time to grooming this breed. Mudi’s coat tends to fall naturally in place and it blows twice a year. However, once-a-week brushing can help remove tangles and mats. It is a good idea to get your Mudi puppy used to grooming from an early age so that there is less trouble in adulthood. Bathe your pet once a month or use a dry powder shampoo between baths to keep him smelling fresh.
As with many dog breeds that are bred for performance and working traits more than for looks or aesthetics, the Mudi dog breed suffers from certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is quite common but it can be prevented by selecting a puppy from a reputed breeder. Epilepsy is also seen in some strains. However, that really is the full extent of health concerns in the Mudi. A lifespan of 13-14 years is common in the Mudi.