Miniature American Shepherd vs Puli
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Puli: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Puli: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Puli: Specialty/Professional1.0
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Puli3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Puli3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Puli3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Puli
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Allergies: Skin sensitivity common
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Puli
Pros
Excellent herding instincts
Loyal family companion
Intelligent and trainable
Weather-resistant coat
Good watchdog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Can be stubborn
Requires experienced owner
Moderate exercise needs
Strong herding instinct may need management
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Puli Fun Fact
Their distinctive corded coat naturally forms into separate rope-like strands without human intervention!
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Puli
Origin:
Hungarian herding dogs from the Middle Ages, Pulis worked alongside shepherds in the Magyar plains. Their distinctive coat protected them while controlling flocks in harsh conditions.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Puli
Professional grooming expertise needed for cord maintenance. Regular exercise essential for mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.