The Pet Atlas

Breed Dogs Herding

Mudi

Wavy-coated herder with springy intensity and fast reactions

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Exercise
High
Mental stimulation
High
Trainability
High
Vocality
High
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
High

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–14 years
Body weight
18–30 lb
Height
15–19 in
Apartment suitability
Can Adapt

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want a sharp, athletic herder and enjoy training variety and problem-solving
  • Can provide active outlets that go beyond the same walk every day

Not ideal

  • Want a slow-paced companion that's content with minimal stimulation
  • Prefer a dog that stays unbothered by constant novelty without guidance

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Fast, alert, and action-ready—often reacting quickly to sounds and movement. Thrives on training challenges and purposeful activity.

Handling & social style

Bonds strongly and can be cautious with strangers. Does best with calm, consistent handling and early social exposure.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

A sharp, energetic herding breed—care is channeling drive into structured work and keeping sensitivity from turning into over-vigilance.

Environment & space

Best with a job-like routine; smaller homes can work if daily training and purposeful exercise are non-negotiable.

Daily routine

Daily training plus high-quality exercise (not just wandering). Variety helps—skills, scent work, controlled agility-style play.

Health sensitivities

Balance intensity with recovery and calm practice; choose lines with transparent history and steady, stable behavioral profiles.

Grooming / coat

Wavy coat with moderate shedding; weekly brushing and routine checks for tangles/debris.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Hungary

Background

A versatile Hungarian herding dog, the Mudi became more formally defined in the 1900s. It was valued for fast reactions and adaptability across tasks. Today, many Mudis are sharp and high-energy, often best matched with owners who enjoy quick, active training.