Mudi

Miscellaneous Class
Mudi

Quick Summary

Intelligent, versatile herding dog ideal for active owners. Excels in dog sports and working roles. Requires significant exercise and mental stimulation.

Contents

Weight Range

18-29 lbs

♂ Male: 18-29 lbs

♀ Female: 18-29 lbs

Height Range

38-47 inches

♂ Male: 15-19"

♀ Female: 15-19"

Life Expectancy

12-14 years

Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition

Intelligence

Rank #85

Average Intelligence

Breed Group

Miscellaneous Class

Originally bred for Hungarian herding dogs from the 1800s, developed in Mudi region for sheep herding and cattle driving

Compatibility Ratings

3/5
3/5
3/5

Behavior & Training

5/5
4/5
4/5

Physical Characteristics

Male Height15"-18.5"
Female Height15"-18.5"
Male Weight18-29 lbs
Female Weight18-29 lbs
Coat Length1/5
Drooling Level2/5

Cost & Ownership

Cost Category

Moderate

Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), basic supplies, and medical checks. Monthly expenses cover quality food, preventive care, and routine veterinary visits. Consider training class costs.

Training & Socialization

Training Difficulty

Easy

Displays keen intelligence and strong herding instincts. High energy level requires consistent outlets for physical and mental stimulation. Forms strong bonds with family while maintaining some reserve with strangers.

Social Needs

Moderately social breed requiring regular human interaction and early socialization. Generally good with other dogs when properly introduced. Can handle alone time if well-exercised.

Breed Overview

Mudi dogs showcase a distinctive medium-sized herding breed profile with wavy-to-curly coat that can appear in various colors including black, brown, white, and merle. Their alert, upright ears and expressive eyes complement an athletic, well-proportioned body built for agility and endurance. Naturally agile and quick, these dogs move with graceful, light-footed steps that reflect their herding heritage.

Key Highlights

Exceptional herding ability
Versatile working dog
Intelligent and trainable
Weather-resistant coat
Athletic and agile

Pros

  • Highly intelligent
  • Versatile working ability
  • Low maintenance coat
  • Excellent agility

Cons

  • High exercise needs
  • Can be reserved with strangers
  • Strong herding instinct
  • Requires early socialization

Breed Characteristics

TemperamentLoyal, Intelligent, Active
Energy LevelNeeds Lots of Activity
TrainabilityEager to Please
Grooming NeedsOccasional Bath/Brush
SheddingOccasional

Exercise & Nutrition

Exercise Requirements

Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including herding activities, agility training, and vigorous play. High-intensity activities should be combined with mental stimulation through training exercises. Thrives with varied physical challenges.

Diet & Nutrition

Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Active lifestyle demands protein-rich diet with proper calcium levels. Consider breed-specific formulas for herding dogs.

Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and age. Include protein-rich foods suitable for active breeds. Monitor weight to prevent overfeeding.

Environment & Living Space

Living Requirements

Adaptable to various living spaces but needs adequate room for movement. Ideal for homes with secure yards. Tolerates different climates well but prefers moderate temperatures.

Requires moderate living space with secure outdoor access. Adapts well to various environments if exercise needs are met. Thrives in settings that allow for regular physical activity.

Suitable Environments

Rural Properties
Suburban Homes
Farms
Active Households

Climate Suitability

Cold
Moderate
Hot

History & Origin

Developed in Hungary's Mudi region during the 19th century, these versatile herders emerged naturally from crosses between various Hungarian sheepdogs. Nearly faced extinction during World War II but was preserved by dedicated breeders.

Country of Origin:
Recognition Date: 2004

Historical Purpose

Hungarian herding dogs from the 1800s, developed in Mudi region for sheep herding and cattle driving. Valued for versatility in managing livestock and farm protection duties.

Fun Fact

Mudis are so rare that they were nearly extinct after World War II, saved by dedicated Hungarian breeders.

Grooming & Maintenance

Occasional Bath/Brush (0.2/5)
Occasional (0.4/5)

Special Considerations

Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular exercise essential. Coat requires minimal maintenance but regular brushing beneficial.

Compare with Other Breeds

Characteristics