Puli vs Russell Terrier

Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Puli is the larger breed at 25–35 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
  • The Russell Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Puli sheds less.
  • The Puli is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPuliRussell Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
HungaryEngland
Height (male)
17"10–12"
Height (female)
16"10–12"
Weight (male)
25–35 lbs9–15 lbs
Weight (female)
25–35 lbs9–15 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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.

About the Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.

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Puli health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hearing problems

Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness