Dreadlocked dogs surge in popularity at Crufts this year
The Hungarian Puli and Komondor are among the top ten 'rising entries' for one of the world's largest dog shows, figures reveal.
Striking for their mop-haired appearances, both breeds originate from Hungary and were bred to herd sheep.
The popularity of the Hungarian Puli has risen by 72 per cent since last year while Komondor numbers are up 40 per cent.
The statistics come ahead of the first day of Crufts 2025 – which is set to take place from Thursday to Sunday.
A total of 50 Hungarian Pulis are expected to compete in the event at the NEC in Birmingham this year – compared to 29 last year, 41 in 2023 and 39 in 2022.
Meanwhile, seven Komondor dogs will be taking part, up from five last year and just one in 2023 and 2022.
With thick, corded, white coats that can grow from around 20 to 27cm long, the Komondor has the heaviest amount of fur in the canine world.
Yet while their mature outer layer resembles dreadlocks or a mop, the breed's puppy coat is soft and fluffy.
The coat protected the breed from wolf bites as the predator's teeth could not penetrate it.
However, today they can pose more practical problems for owners – as the coat can take around two and a half days to dry after a bath.
While the Komondor stands at around 70cm on average, the Hungarian Puli is smaller – at around 40cm on average across the two sexes.
And while the Komondor has white fur, Pulis are often black.
Fans of the breed include Mark Zuckerberg, who welcomed a Puli puppy – Beast, into his family in 2015.
Meanwhile the Bavarian Mountain Hound has seen the highest entry rises compared to the previous year – from 11 dogs in 2024 to 27 entering this year, a 145 per cent increase, and the Austrian Silky terrier will see its entrants double – from 10 in 2024 to 20 this year.
'Celebrates hundreds of different dogs'
Referring to the Hungarian Puli and Komondor, Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club which organises Crufts, said: 'These 'top risers' are a real reflection of diversity, with many of the breeds originating from around the globe and generally being less well-known.'
Mr Lambert added: 'We're looking forward to finding out which dog will have its day at this year's event and be crowned 'Best in Show' – and we hope that Crufts 2025 raises awareness of, and celebrates, hundreds of different dogs, of all shapes, size and character.'
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