Puli vs Keeshond
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Puli
Herding Group
Keeshond
Non-Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Puli Overview
Distinctive for its long, corded coat resembling dreadlocks, the Puli is a compact herding dog with remarkable agility and intelligence. The unique coat, naturally forming cords that provide protection from harsh weather, gives this breed its unmistakable appearance. Alert and nimble, Pulis possess a medium-sized, muscular frame with a proud bearing and characteristic bouncing gait.
Keeshond Overview
Keeshonds are distinctive spitz-type dogs featuring a luxurious double coat in silver and black, with distinctive 'spectacles' around their expressive eyes. Their fox-like face, coupled with a proud, plumed tail and thick ruff around the neck, creates an instantly recognizable silhouette. Medium-sized and well-proportioned, they carry themselves with confidence and grace.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Pulis are less energetic than Keeshonds, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Pulis require more grooming attention compared to Keeshonds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Pulis tend to be more reserved with strangers than Keeshonds.
- Trainability: Pulis may be slightly easier to train due to their Puli's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Pulis adapt better to apartment living, while Keeshonds typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Puli and Keeshond, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Puli | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 10-15 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Herding Group | Non-Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Puli | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 16-17 inches 41-43 cm | 17-18 inches 43-46 cm |
| Weight | 25-35 lbs 11-16 kg | 35-45 lbs 16-20 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Puli | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Smart, Home-Loving | Friendly, Lively, Outgoing |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Puli | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Puli Temperament
The Puli is known for being loyal, smart, home-loving, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Keeshond Temperament
The Keeshond is characterized by being friendly, lively, outgoing, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Puli and Keeshond, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Puli
Rating: 3/5
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Puli
Rating: 3/5
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Puli
Rating: 3/5
Keeshond
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Puli
Rating: 2/5
Keeshond
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Puli
Rating: 5/5
Keeshond
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Puli Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Pulis require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Pulis require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Keeshond Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Keeshonds need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Keeshonds require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Puli Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Deafness
- Bloat
- Allergies
Keeshond Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Heart Issues
- Eye Problems
Pros & Cons
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
Keeshond
Pros
- Excellent family companion
- Good with children
- Intelligent and trainable
- Alert watchdog
- Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
- Heavy shedding
- Regular grooming required
- Can be vocal
- Needs regular exercise
- May be stubborn
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Puli and Keeshond, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.