How Much Does a Puli Cost? (2026 Guide)

The Puli is not an inexpensive breed to own, and prospective owners who factor in only purchase price often find themselves underprepared for the ongoing costs. Understanding the full financial picture before bringing one home is a genuine act of responsible ownership.

Purchasing a Puli puppy from a health-tested breeder who follows Puli Club of America guidelines typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500 in the United States, though some lines with strong working or conformation titles may command prices closer to $3,000. This range reflects the relatively small number of reputable breeders actively producing the breed and the costs associated with proper health testing of the parents. Avoid sellers offering Pulik significantly below this range, as the savings are almost always subsidized by skipping health clearances.

Food costs for a 25 to 35 pound dog eating a quality kibble or fresh diet typically run $40 to $80 per month, depending on the food brand and whether you supplement with fresh protein. The Puli is not a large dog and does not have exceptional caloric demands, which keeps this cost manageable.

Grooming is where the Puli's costs diverge sharply from other breeds of similar size. The corded coat cannot be maintained through a standard grooming appointment at a chain salon — most general groomers are unfamiliar with cord maintenance and may refuse the dog entirely or cause damage. Owners who learn to maintain cords at home can reduce costs substantially, but this requires significant time investment, particularly during the corded transition period between one and two years of age. Professional grooming from a specialist familiar with corded coats, when available, typically ranges from $100 to $200 or more per session. Bathing a fully corded Puli is a major undertaking — the cords must be thoroughly saturated, carefully squeezed clean, and dried completely, a process that can take several hours under a high-velocity dryer and can cost $80 to $150 at a professional facility.

Veterinary costs should be budgeted with the breed's known health risks in mind. Annual wellness visits for an adult dog run $150 to $300. OFA health screening during the dog's working life — relevant if you plan to breed — adds additional costs. If hip dysplasia or progressive retinal atrophy manifests, treatment and management costs can range from $2,000 to $6,000 or more depending on severity and intervention type.

Pet insurance for the Puli, given the breed's known genetic risks, typically runs $40 to $80 per month for comprehensive accident and illness coverage for a young adult dog. Providers like Healthy Paws, Trupanion, and Embrace all cover the Puli, though premiums increase with age and policy terms vary significantly around hereditary conditions, making early enrollment important.