Uncommon Dog Breeds: The Mudi

The Mudi is a Hungarian herd dog whose origins are not fully documented, however everyone agrees this canine was not the result of planned breeding. As with most rural villages, farmers would select dogs based on their work ability, not conformation. This is how the Mudi came into existence. It was used as a multi-purpose farm dog who could herd sheep, guard livestock, and go hunting. It was a canine which possessed many talents. Up until the 1930s, the Mudi was placed into the same category as that of the Pumi and Puli. This dog is still relatively rare, and would have faced extinction if not for the efforts of devoted breeders.

The head is narrow, and wedge shaped with little to no stop at the muzzle, which is slender and tapering. The oval eyes are brown, or black. Ears stand erect. The neck is strong, with no throatiness present. Its body is rangy, with a sufficiently deep chest, and lengthy back. The legs are moderately long, while the feet are small, and cat like. The tail is well feathered, and kept curled over the back. The coat is wavy, and of medium length. It tends to be shorter around the face. The fur can be a blue-merle, white, black, red, gray, brown, and tawny.

Easy going, and jovial in nature, the Mudi may be a rare breed, but it possesses a strong fan base. Households who have these companion animals effusively compliment their good personality, their many talents, and so forth. Quite a few who choose a Mudi, stick with this breed, rejecting all others. They get along well with other animals, and are devoted to the children they grew up with. These dogs possess a sweet disposition, and never exhibit grouchy behavior. With this in mind, its rather surprising there are so few of them.

Extremely intelligent, they pick up on new commands in an efficient, effortless manner. They are quick learners, which makes them a joy to train. These dogs can possess an independent streak, but generally want to please their owners. With patient, firm handling they are capable of learning anything. The Mudi usually bonds strongly to one person.