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Mudi (apparently “Moody”) is a medium-sized shepherd dog from Hungary that has existed since the 19th century. It is said that the twins evolved naturally from across the Puli, Pumi and German Spitz breeds. Today, the Mudi, though very rare, is seen as an active, intelligent, bidding working breed. It is estimated that there are no more than a few thousand Mudis worldwide, the largest number being in Hungary, followed by Finland and then throughout Europe, the U.S. Mudi excels in agility, obedience, and flyball, as well as other dog sports. She is a true working breed and shines on both cattle and sheep, and in Finland and the U.S.
Magyars (the original name for the Hungarians) had started keeping flocks by the end of the ninth century, but the lineage breeding and classification of dogs only began in the late 19th century. Previously, Hungarian sheepdogs were divided into only two categories: large and small. While breeding, the small dogs were divided from the larger ones (Kuvas, Komondor), but the smaller ones were interred. Therefore, the early history of Mudi is more or less similar to that of Pumi and Puli.
Around 1930, the director of the museum at Balasgyaramat, Dr. Desjo Feeney was one of the first breeders to be involved in the separate breeding of this small lamb. He also stated that the breed is named Mudi. By 1936, the Mudi was officially recognized as a breed.
During World War II, many Hungarian breeds suffered terrible losses, some almost disappeared, and Mudi was given no immunity as a rare breed. In the 1960s, it was rehabilitated from survivors, and in 1966, a new breed standard for applying for FCI accreditation was Dr. Zoltan was written by Balesi. This standard was based on only a handful of beadies and was the main difference between the original standard and the accepted sizes and colors. The breed standard was approved by the FCI in 1966, but very few people were involved in breeding at that time and the situation remains the same today.
As the restoration of the breed took place over the next few decades, a naturally occurring variability in color was revealed, which differed from the standard written in ’66. A new standard was written in 2000 to add most of these original colors and the current FCI breed standard dates from 2004.
The Mudi has short, straight, smooth hair on the face and front of the legs. On its body, the hair is thick and curly to wavy, one to three inches long on other parts of its body, with clear feathers on the back of the forearm and upper thighs.
The gestation period in lasts for 60-64 days The primary period of the reproductive cycle of the female is called Proestrus and goes on for around 9 days. During this time the females begin to draw in males. The subsequent part is the Estrus when the bitch is receptive to the male. It goes on for around 3 to 11 days. The third part is the Diestrus. Usually, it happens around day 14. In this period the bitch’s discharge changes for distinctive red and reaching its end. The vulva gets back to average, and she will no longer allow mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time span between heat periods ordinarily keeps going around a half year. The litter size ranges between 6 to 8 puppies at a time’
The Mudi breed is easily cared for. Occasional bathing, a comb or bush to remove dead hair, and regular nail care are enough for this wash and wear breed.
Mudi is vocal, alert, energetic, intelligent, cool, adaptable and always enthusiastic for any job that needs to be done. Needless to say, these traits make him very trained and eager to please. Mudi is also understandably suspicious and is, therefore, an excellent sentinel.
Twists are very energetic dogs. Although he remains calm and relaxed at home, once he is out he appreciates a good run. Not surprisingly, a moody excellence on flyball, obedience, herring and Frisbee. They are quite fickle and can be mischievous, especially when it comes to digging. They are also known for their exceptional jumping ability. A well-used Mudi is a Mudi who does not seek trouble elsewhere.
Mudi should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared with the supervision and approval of your veterinarian. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet, check with your vet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Mudi is an overall healthy breed, and responsible breeders screen their stock for various health conditions. Muddy Club of America recommends the test listed on the CHIC website: caninehealthinfo.org
Read the official breed club health statement.
Recommended Health Test from Parents Club