9.26.2008

MUDI - HUNGARIAN MUDI - CANIS OVILIS FENEYESI.




Country of Origin:Hungary.
Group:Working .
Size:Medium.
Lifespan:13-15 years.
Exercise:High.
Grooming:Low.
Trainability:High.
Watchdog ability:Very high.
Protection ability:Medium.
Date of Origin:18th Century.
Other Names:Hungarian Mudi , Canis Ovilis Fenyesi


HISTORY.
The Mudi has probably been in existence since the 18th Century, but the exact time is difficult to pinpoint due to the confusion in the different names of the herding dogs that were used in Hungary. While it is commonly believed that the Puli is the oldest of the Hungarian sheep herding breeds, and that the Pumi and the Mudi were derived from that breed, that may not be the case. It is possible that the Mudi, with its many ancient features, is the result of crosses between spitz-type dogs and other naturally occurring herding dogs of the time and region.
During the 2nd World War, many Hungarian breeds suffered terrible losses, some almost disappeared and the Mudi was given no immunity as a rare breed. In the 1960's, it was rehabilitated from survivors and in the 1970's, a few kennels worked to revive the breed to its original status in Hungary. It was never a popular breed in its country of origin.

SIZE.
The ideal shoulder height for dogs is 40-50cm (16-20 in).

GENERAL APPEARANCE.
Medium sized breed of Shepherd Dog type. The head is wedge shaped and tapers towards the nose. Prick ears. Body topline is distinctly sloping towards the rear. The head and the limbs are covered by short, smooth coat. The other parts of the body have a somewhat longer, very wavy to slightly curly coat. There are different variations of colour.

TEMPERAMENT.
The Mudi is lively, tractable, intelligent and keen. Very courageous, the Mudi is extremely popular with shepherds and is often used on large and difficult livestock. He makes an exceptional guard, watch and alarm dog, and is an excellent agility dog and all around companion.
The Mudi is highly intelligent and makes an excellent working dog, watchdog, or family pet. They are strong, courageous, and will take on anyone or anything that they believe is attacking their family. They are loving and gentle- but they tend to bond with one particular person and can become needy. The Mudi is wary of strangers. They are not dog-aggressive, and non-canine pets are safe with them as long they have been raised together from puppyhood. They should also be socialized with children from a young age.
The Mudi is extremely able to learn, of lively temperament, courageous, watchful, keen to work, alert and adaptable.

COLOURS.
-Black.
-Blue-merle, i.e. black speckled, estriped, -brindle or -spotted on lighter or darker bluish-grey primary colour.
-Ash colour.
-Brown.
Only slightly extensive white markings are tolerated but not desired. A white patch on the chest, less than 5 cm in diameter, and white markings on the toes are permitted but not desired.
-White.