The Kennel Club has announced that the Hungarian Mudi will become the UK’s newest – and 225th – pedigree dog breed on July 1.
Known for their distinctive curly coats, Hungarian Mudis (pronounced “moodies”) are smart, active and versatile herding dogs.
“The Mudi is razor-sharp, thinks independently, and is an affectionate, fiercely loyal family member,” says Dorit Powell, from the Hungarian Mudi Club in the United Kingdom.
Dorit adds: “They are suitable for most types of living, as long as they are provided with a job or similar mental and physical stimulation, and their human companions can accept their breed-characteristic vocal and herding behaviour.”
This rare breed may be a relative newcomer to our shores, but it has a rich history in its native Hungary. Originally bred to herd cattle and sheep, the first references to Mudi-like dogs date back to the 1700s and the breed was formally identified in Hungary in 1936.
As well as herding on farms, Mudis are now also used as search and rescue dogs in Finland and the U.S. thanks to their agility, loyalty and obedience.
The Hungarian Mudi is the fifth new breed to be recognised by The Kennel Club in the last five years, joining fellow new arrivals the Icelandic Sheepdog, Polish Hunting Dog, Smooth Faced Pyrenean Sheepdog and Barbet.
It will go onto the Imported Breed Register on July 1 while a breed standard is produced and approved, at which point the Mudi will move onto the main breed register – and be eligible to compete for the prestigious title of Best in Show at Crufts.
“We’re pleased to officially recognise this versatile Hungarian herding dog as a pedigree breed in the UK,” says Charlotte McNamara, spokesperson for The Kennel Club.
“Becoming a recognised pedigree breed with The Kennel Club takes time and several generations of dogs, but once a breed is officially recognised, it means we can be confident in its lineage and that it offers predictable traits.”
Hungarian Mudi facts
Height: 15 to 18.5 inches
Weight: 18 to 29 lbs
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
Colours: Black, white, yellow, grey, grey-brown and brown, with plain or merle markings
Cara is Commissioning Editor at Country Living, covering everything from style and interiors to sustainability, artisans and the great outdoors. She has previously worked for Good Housekeeping, Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Prima and Red, and has an MA in Magazine Journalism from City University and a BA in Music from the University of Oxford. Follow Cara on Instagram @caralaskaris or Linkedin.
