Italian Greyhound vs Puli

Toy · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Puli is the larger breed at 25–35 lbs (males) vs 7–14 lbs for the Italian Greyhound.
  • The Italian Greyhound typically lives longer (14–15 years).
  • The Puli is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitItalian GreyhoundPuli
Group
ToyHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
ItalyHungary
Height (male)
13–15"17"
Height (female)
13–15"16"
Weight (male)
7–14 lbs25–35 lbs
Weight (female)
7–14 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–15 years10–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a playful, alert, sensitive miniature sighthound — Renaissance lapdog favored by Italian nobility. Originally from Italy, this small toy breed typically weighs 7–14 lbs and lives 14–15 years. Breeders describe them as playful, alert, sensitive.

About the Puli

The Puli is a loyal, smart, energetic Hungarian sheepdog with corded dreadlock coat — agile and acrobatic. Originally from Hungary, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–35 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, energetic.

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Italian Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Leg fractures
  • Dental issues
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA

Puli health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hearing problems