Puli News PULi CLUB

Puli News PULi CLUB

of AMERICA

Volume 56 No. l February 2008

PULi CLUB OF AMERICA Officers

President Vice President Corresponding Treasurer Secretary

Carolyn Nusbickel Michael Rohe S. Eniko Szeremy Linore Cleveland, _ J Hedgemere Drive 5032 Winton Ridge Lane I 0305 N. Chatfield Pl. 105 Hopi Way,

Devon, PA. 19333 Cincinnati, OH 45232 Littleton, CO 80125 Kerrville TX 78028, 61 0-687-1737 513-541-6819 303-791-6306 830-257-7814

bokar [email protected] cordonblue [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dodie Atkins Alexandra Davis Barbe Pessina Ann Quigley 6036 Peachmont Terrace P.O. Box 706 632 Peekskill Hollow Rd 159 Beville Road

Norcross, Ashland, Putnam Valley, Chehalis, GA 30092-233 l VA 23005 NY 10579 WA 98532-9115 770-449-6571 804-449-1527 845-528-9350 360-245-3464

dga I 0sne [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Alece Coulman Brubaker AKC Delegate P.O. Box 291 Barbara Edwards

Carlisle, PA 17013 13947 Umpire Street

717-245-9514 Brighton,

alece. brubaker@vcamail. co 80603-8887 720-685-0131

com [email protected]

CONTENTS

President's Message page 3 Supported Entries

Editor 's Message page3 Specialty Information

Corresponding Secretary's Report page3 Tribute to Les Benis

Membership Report page3 Committee Page

Rescue Coordinator page4 PCA Guidelines

Special Stars page5 Breeders ' Information

AKC Agility Invitational pages 8- 9

Cover: Les Benis & his favorite Puli, AKC, FCI International, Mexican Ch. Cinkotai Csibesz

Back cover: Ch. Sasvolgyi Hunnia Puszi Pajtas (Minka)

Pl.Ji .Vn-s - February :!008,

Recording Secretary

Marla Williams 32847 200th St., Steamboat Rock,

IA 50672 641-868-2263 Marlawilliams

@unitedsuppliers.com

Theodore J. Lawson, Jr 11851 Belair # 103,

San Antonio, TX 78213-4858 2 10-341-6156

Email: [email protected]

page 13

page 14

pages 15 - 28

page 29

page 30

page 31

FROM THE EDITOR This first issue of 2008 is dedicated to Les Benis, whose impact on the Puli both in the United States and worldwide is undeniable.

I want to thank everyone that contributed to this issue especially the Benis family

who have shared so many photos and memories with me.

As we start a new year please try and support the PCA at its Supported Entries (page 13) and make plans for the 2008

Ohio Specialty (page 14)

The April issue will contain the top 1 0 Puli in 2007 for conformation and obedience.

I welcome any ideas for features for the remainder of 2008.

Alex Davis

Corresponding Secretary's Report

From December to February 4, 2008 :

• PCA received five inquiries about puppy and breed information;

• One inquiry about accessing the PCA web page for members only;

• A correspondence from Rend Lake Resort promoting their site for dog shows;

• An announcement from the president of Metropolitan Dog Club describing the club as a community service organization that brings awareness of canine issues and raises money for dog charities;

• Notice of Metropolitan Dog Club's Best-in-Show brunch to be

The Puli world has lost a true and devoted friend of the breed ...

We can only begin to understand and appreciate the love and devotion Les had for

our breed.

From his many specialty judging assignments ... where he wanted to see

"Puli spirit" .. . to his wonderful and informative book ...

THIS IS THE PULi, Les cast a "long shadow".

We will miss his wonderful laugh, his willingness to share his knowledge with

others and his unwavering love of our unique breed.

We extend to his family our heart-felt sympathy.

Carolyn Nusbickel

Membership Report

It is with great pleasure that we welcome the following new Associate members of the Puli Club of America.

Candace & Brian Gauntlett 139 Main St. , Glencoe, ON NOL lM0, Canada Home: 519-287-2423 Email : pulibreeder@sympatico .ca.

Craig & Linda Wescoatt PO Box 4958, Eagle, CO 81631-4958 Home : 970-328-0214 Email : [email protected].

Diane Fields W5825 Carla CT, Stoddard, WI 54658 Home: held 2/ 13/08; 608-788-8932 Email : [email protected]. • A reminder note from the AKC regarding PCA'a Annual State Filing;

Other Correspondences :

The AKC will hold its second Educational Match in Raleigh on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, in Dorton Arena at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. The Education Match will educate new exhibitors by presenting a morning of educational activities followed by an afternoon AKC-sanctioned match. All clubs that provide significant participation in assisting with this match and educational activity will be credited for holding an AKCsanctioned match. More information can be found on the AKC web si te at www.akc.org/pdfs/Educational_Match_Manual.pdf

Remember that you can contact the Board of Directors with questions or concerns through the PCA web site. S. Eniko Szeremy Corresponding Secretary.

The Board has assigned Provisional Membership to the following applications upon review. In the absence of feedback, which may cause the application to be rejected, these applicants will automatically become Associate members after a period of 45 days from the publication of Puli News. Please note that all new applicants to PCA Membership that are citizens or permanent residents of the United States will receive an Associate Membership for a period of 12 months, after which time they will become a General Member with all the rights and privileges of membership which includes the right to vote

Allen & Nancy Cavender 831 Kenmore Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Home: 919-942-2832 Email: [email protected]. Allen is an engineer. Allen & Nancy own 2 Pulik. They do not intend to breed or show. Allen & Nancy have signed the Guidelines and are sponsored by Don Gold and Maxine Gold

Puli News - February 2008,

Emoke & James Adams 2207 19th Street, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223 Home: 330-920-1973 Email:. Emoke & James are both retired, and own 1 Puli. They do not intend to breed, or show. Emoke & James have signed the Guidelines and are sponsored by Michael Rohe and Patty Anspach

Natalie Puhak 289 Tripp St., Swoyersvi lle, PA 18704 Home: 570-288-2071 Email: [email protected]. Natal ie is a Teacher and does not own a Puli at present. She does not intend to breed or show. Natalie has signed the Guidelines and is sponsored by Melinda Peters and Tom Peters

Elizabeth Simon 8824 15th Ave., NE, Seattle, WA 98115-3106 Home: 206-499-8934 Email: [email protected] . Elizabeth is a Sales Engineer and owns 1 Puli. She does not intend to breed or show. Elizabeth has signed the Guidelines and is sponsored by the Board .

Julie Simonson 509 Vine Street #3H, Philadelphia, PA 19106-1007 Home: 310-775-3705 Email: [email protected]. Julie is a writer and owns 1 Puli. She does not intend to breed or show. Julie has signed the Guidelines and is sponsored by Melinda Peters and Tom Peters

Judy Crawford 6643 Parson Brown Dr., Orlando, FL 32819 Home: 407-248-8382 Email: [email protected]. Judy is a grantwriter/fundraiser and owns 1 Puli. She does not intend to breed or show. Judy has signed the Guidelines and is sponsored by Sherry Gibson and Penny Johnson

Placido & Roberta Salazar P.O. Box 243, Forest Knolls, CA 94933- Home :415-488-4119 Email: [email protected]. Placido & Roberta are both retired and own 1 Puli. They do not intend to breed or show. Placido & Roberta have signed the Guidelines and are sponsored by Jim Moen and Cathy Pronzini

~ Alex Davis

Rescue Coordinator I There has been only one rescue 'event' since the last issue of PN, but it has been protracted and resulted in our needing to obtain DNA results to clarify the breed ... the results of which are still pending! In brief, we were not able to find a PCA person to vet a possible Puli in a Midland, TX shelter. Bob Idzi, on our homes waiting list, was no longer in a position to take another Puli, but kindly arranged for someone to pick up the dog, six hours away. It took innumerable calls to ascertain that the dog would not be put down before we could get to him, and from the start we agreed that the photos we had were somewhat ambiguous as to breed. Once Bob had the dog, he did the routine vet check, shots and grooming, and still we were not certain ... The vet is sure it is a Puli, but others think not. There is no prospective local home for him, but many manageable options if it is clear he is a Puli .. . While seeming ly extravagant to do the genetic test, we had made sufficient investment in this dog that it appeared the most expedient, clarifying option . -Shall keep you posted!

There remains still no further news about the Houck Memorial Trophy, although we have had many inquiries about how to contribute to it.

Melinda Peters

Planned Litters Announcement

Ch.Mardi Gras Mombo x Ch.Piroskai Kloak n Dagger

Both are health cleared (OF A/CERF). Due: 3/1/08

Breeders: Piroska Pulik/ Irma and Dagmar Fertl (North of Houston, Texas).

email: Piroska l 3 l 3@A TT .NET

Natalie Puhak writes ....

In November I received an e-mail from e of a UK magazine, The Dog Collection. Each issue of the magazine is on a differen breed dog. An upcoming issue is on the P Ii. editor wants to feature my Pulioos a as "star" Puli in the magazine. Each magazin accompanied by a stuffed anim of dog breed.

I thought that the Puli membe might like to know abou e P Dog Collection.

Change of Address &

Contact Information

Irma Fertl Email : [email protected]

Jim Belanger and Mike Connery Email: [email protected]

Dagmar Fertl Email [email protected]

APRIL PULi NEWS DEADLINE~ MARCH 26th, 2008!!!

- Februarr 1008,

********************************************* * .-----------~ * : SPECIAL STARS :

* * * CH Prydain Vertigo * * Owner: Jodell Grandey * * Gr. 3 KC of Buffalo j . Mr. Arley D. Hussin 01/11/2008 * * Gr. 4 KC of Buffalo j . Ms. Patricia Laurens 01/12/2008 * * * * CH Spindrift's Prime Time * * Owned by Brian and Alece Coulman Brubaker * * * * Gr. 2 Ingham County KC j. Mr. Robert Thomas 12/2/2007 * * * *********************************************

2008 Membership renewals have been sent.

Please see the Puli Club web site for an easy way to renew your membership!

(www.puliclub.org)

If you have not received your renewal please contact

Alex Davis Membership Coordinator

Deadline March 1, 2008 NO EXCEPTIONS!

2008 Membership Directory

Are you an artist??

Would you like to see your work on the cover of the

2008 PCA Membership Directory? (The artwork must be of Puli/s!)

If so please send to Alex Davis

PO Box 706 Ashland, VA 23005

Membership Coordinator

By March 20th

Revisions to the Constitution and By Laws.

For the past several years, a Constitution and By Laws Committee has been working diligently to

address revisions to the Constitution and By Laws.

The proposed new CB&L was mailed the end of January to all VOTING MEMBERS and you should

all have received your package in the mail.

Please note that the deadline for the ballots is MARCH 15, 2008.

If you have not received your package please contact Barbe Pessina at [email protected] or

845/528-9350 to obtain a copy.

Take the time to review this important document for the Puli Club and get your ballot in the mail as soon

as possible. All ballots should be sent to:

Marla Williams Recording Secretary Puli Club of America

3284 7 200th St. Steamboat Rock, IA 50672

Puli News - Februa,y 2008,

EY AGAIN-HERDING TITLE #10 6 completed in. 2007

Ch. Talisman's Barnabus Betyar, CD,HT,PT, JHD, OTO, STD, HTDI & II, HTADI & II & III,NAJ,TT,VPA, CGC, Delta Society Ce "fie Therapy Dog

At the Regional American Herding Breed Association herding trial under Judge Charlie Ellis.. Barney and I took 2nd place in trial for the "Advanced Title of HT AD III" (Herding Trial Arena Dog Ill)

Barney is the first Puli in history to earn t

For th is event Barney works entirely alone. I only leave the handler 's post to open pen gates and direct the " required shed" (split tbe

Bred by, Owned by, Trained by, Handled by and Loved by

Sire: Ch . Downhome Windsor Allegro (Foy Cothren) Dam: Sugarbear Anatasha Gold (Maxine & Don Gold )

Now let me introduce you to Barney's successor:

VASTSJO L.E. ofTaHsman. ....... "L.E."

3 from 7)

Gold

She is a 22 pound rocket ship in the pasture. L.E. is smart, fast and fearless !

She has worked in Barney's shadow long enough! Her time has come! DON, BARNEY & LE.

Pu/i News - February 2008,

NOVEMBER 29 2007 BRANTFORD, ONTERIO, CANADA

BOB & GRP 2 AM CH MITONKA'S KORMOS BETYAR JUDGE USA AVERY HANDLER/OWNERS:

KAREN KOCSONDY

"Poli Canada"

DECEMBER 1 2007 BRANTFORD, ONTERJO, CANADA BOB & GRP 4 AM CH MOONSHADOW RONGYOS KIS

MEDVE (BEAR) JUDGE DON EMSUE

HANDLER, JEAN TREMBLAY OWNERS ZOLTAN & KAREN KOCSONDY ~ffl NOVE:::R :: ~~M*!£if.:~g:£~::::NADA

JUDGE LESLIE ROGERS HANDLER/OWNER: KAREN KOCSONDY

The "Puli Canada" folks were very kind, friendly , gracious and we felt welcomed. We entered our three male American Champion Pulik as we wanted to be supportive of our Puli Canada club. We had a great time meeting new Puli friends and their Pulik. Lisa Avery and Candace Gauntlett hosted a gathering . Sharon Rapai had a display (met her husband .. a Magyar too) and Ann Tober flew in from out west and represented Puli Canada as its president. We had representation from Ottawa, Quebec province as well. Maggie Snell attended the show and the party, she looked so young and spry, what a pleasure to see her so well and in such great spirits. Helen Wright and her husband George came by for the Booster as did our friends Bernie and Bobby Silverman. We also got to meet their new white Puli . We met a few others who are old time Puli people and handlers, but not Puli club members . The weather was a challenge on Sunday, but we were glad to get to and from the show safely. Thanks to our Canadian Puli friends,

Zoltan & Karen Kocsondy, Kormos, Bear & Remy

- 1-.rJfli..i

I GUIDELINES FOR SUPPORTED E TRIE

The Puli Club of America will provide six (6) upported entries during each calendar year with trophie in the following classes:

Best of Breed Best of Opposite Sex Best of Winners Winners Dog Winners Bitch High Scoring Puli in the Regular Classes

I

No request will be entertained for a Supported Entry in the I\ same geographic location as the National Specialty for 8 weeks prior to the National and 4 weeks after the National. ~

Priority will be given to diversity in geographic locations;

Jane Slade Exum receiving the AK.C 's Special Award of Merit

for Outstanding Performance in Agility "Top Puli 2006" for MACH Bowmaker Szereto Kutya CD

"Scootie" Awarded at the AKC Agility Banquet December 2007

i.e. , West Coast, East Coast, Midwest, Southwest, etc. in order to encourage member participation where there is

~ interest.

Contact Barbe Pessina if you are interested in having a PCA supported entry in your area.

[email protected]


AKC Agility Invitational December 1 - 2, 2007

To start with, I have to say that I felt honored to be a part of the AKC Agility Invitational in Long Beach, California this year. To be representing the Puli breed - WOW.

I was amazed at the number of breeds, not typically thought of as agility dogs, with 'knock your socks off' runs. There were breeds, I have not seen at local trials that were incredible, all very deserving to be representing their breed. I was impressed with one little West Highland White Terrier, very fast, very accurate and very cute - not your typical agility breed. An Old English Bulldog had incredible runs and was warmly supported by the crowds and fellow competitors. The e,) -support and comradary of the competitors was awesome. Everyone was cheering for each run, regardless of whether the ~ run was qualifying or not. It was a wonderful environment for competitors and truly demonstrated the best of the agility community. There were many spectators; the grandstands were nearly full during every run. There was 'Standing Room Only' at the Agility finals; three sets of grandstands were full. No Puli made it into the Finals this year, but there is always next year.

"TEAM PULi" - Esther Abshier and Harry, Jane Slade-Exum with Scootie & Fruby, Cathy Pronzini and Rombi and Alex Davis and Oliver

There were all sizes, shapes and ages of handlers proudly running their dogs on the courses. A Great Dane ran spectacularly with his handler that was very limited in her ability to move with the dog. The Great Dane worked at a great distance with the accuracy that most only expect from a Border Collie. The crowd roared after each of their runs, proving that anyone can compete successfully in agility, even if not athletic.

The courses were difficult, but doable. The course times were tight, but again achievable. There were three judges from the United States and one judge from Europe (Slovenia). The judges rotated between the rings and various jump heights, so that each competitor ran under each judge. The European judge caused problems for some dogs and competitors, as the judging style in Europe is different from the United States. I've been told by people who have competed in Europe that it is common for the European judges to run along side the dog and handler and to get very close to the contact zone to make sure that the dog steps in it. This closeness caused some dogs to hesitate, miss the contact zone or refuse an obstacle.

Our five Puli representatives did a wonderful job representing the breed. Some runs were fast, accurate and qualifying, some were 'Puli' runs - fun, funny, cords a flying, cords dropping bars, 'Puli choice' courses, but always done with the typical Puli flair.

Jane Slade-Exum's fantastic girl CH MACH Pula-V's Fruska Pajkos RA was the High scoring Puli.

The other members of the 2007 Puli Team were: Jane Slade-Exum's MACH Bowmaker Szereto Kutya CD RN, Esther Abshier's Prydain Young Wizard CD RN MX MXJ OF, Alex Davis's CH Loakespark Just Smart RN MX MXJ and cathy Pronzini's MACH Mt Hood's Rombolo Rocket RA.

The Long Beach Convention Center venue is large and a perfect venue for the various AKC Invitationals. Agility is held in a large room with two completely matted large rings, spectator stands

a large area reserved for crating of the agility dogs. In an adjacent part of the main convention c:en er the AKC Eukanuba Invitational Conformation show is held, so the excitement in the air was palpable. There were many vendors on the main floor with every type of dog gear that you can ·magine; grooming, collectibles, dog food, treats, dog clothes, jewelry for both dogs and humans, information booths, etc.

On the second floor of the convention center the AKC Obedience Invitational was held, with multiple rings. 'Meet the Breeds' was also on the second floor. Nearly every AKC recognized breed had a booth with information about their breed and dogs on exhibit. The Puli 'Meet the Breeds' booth was

Jane Slade-Exum's CH MACH Pula-V's Fruska Pajkos RA

was the High scoring Puli.

qu· e spectacular. It was put together by Rob Sky, who did an outstanding job. Rob's CH Commanche Moon Over Catsun PT 'Gus' was a wonderful Puli Ambassador, entertaining the spectators by rolling on his back and letting everyone pet him. Anita and Frank Ritenour and their Pulik spent the day helping with the 'Meet the Breeds' booth. Other Pulik and their humans also visited the booth to help out and get their opportunity to play Puli

bassador.

in , · was a really fun time and all the Pulik that attended (Agility, Conformation and 'Meet the Breeds') were wonderful examples of our very soeoal breed. I'm hoping that Rombi and I qualify to go again in 2008. Cathy Pronzini

p.

MACH Mt . Hood's Rombolo Rocket RA Call name: •Rombi" AKC titles: MACH & RA Non AKC title: AAD , ASA , AS , AJ, NAC, NGC, TNN Owner/s: Catharine Pronzini, James M Moen & Bill Hiett Handler : Cathy Pronzini Date of Birth: 7/ 10/ 1999 City & State: Danville , CA Where train: Power Paws Agility in San Jose Favorite Toy: Me Favorite treat: Cheese Moment to forget at Invitational: Dashing out from the starting line over the wrong jump Best moment at Invitational : Ignoring the Judge hovering over the contacts

"TEAM PULi"

AKC/Eukanuba Invitational

December 2007

CH MACH Pula- V's Fruska Paj kos RA Call name: • Fruby" AKC titles MACH CH, RA Non AKC title: AD Owner/ s: Jane Slade-Exum

rr=====================::::;il Handler : Jane Slade-Exum

MACH Bowmaker Szer eto Kutya CD RN Call name: • Scootie" AKC titles MACH RN, CD Non A KC title: none Owner/s: Jane Slade Exum Handler : Jone Slade Exum Dote of Birth: 7 /24/99 Qty & State : Woodstock, GA Where train: Run, Spot, Jump f.,...ri te Toy: whichever toy anyone else has ~ite treat: KFC chicken livers ~t to forget at Invitational :Our disastrous run in

of the International judge moment at Invitational: Our f irst run where we got

-x:se.weave.s!

Date of Birth: 1/ 19/ 03 City & State : Woodstock, GA Where train: Run , Spot, Jump Favorite Toy: stuffed raccoon Favorit e treat: KFC chicken livers Moment t o forget at Invitational : our walk to the hotel from t he arena in the pouring rain Best moment at Invitational : Our round two run in fro nt of a judge who is a personal friend just felt terrific

CH Loakespark Just Smart,RN, MX, MXJ, NAP ,NJP Call name: • Ol iver• AKC titles CH , MX, MXJ , RN , NAP, NJP Non AKC t itle: None Owner/ s: Alexandra Davis & Carolyn Nusbickel Handler: Alexandra Davis Date of Birth: 4/30/2001 City & State : Ashland , VA Where train: Back yard! Favorite Toy: Bright yellow duck won at a trial Favorite treat: Garlic Liver Bread Moment to forget at Invitational : Forgetting the course half way round in Round 1 Best moment at Invitational: Gett ing a •Q• in Round 4 without walking the course beforehand.

Prydain Young Wizard N.x N.x.J, NF, RN Call name: • Harry • AKC titles MX MXJ , NF, RN Non A KC title: Several Flyball titles Owner/ s: Esther Abshier Handler : Esther Abshier Date of Birth: 08/03/ 01 City & State : Chico , CA Where train: home generally by ourselves. Favorite Toy: No real favorite Favorite treat: BBQ chicken or steak We get our exercise by running through the orchards when we can, or playing fetch the ball at the school.


Ch Irnrnerzu Kamchatka - "Balint"

Puli News - Febnwry 2008. Page IO

Therapy Pulis in Calif omia "We became pet therapy dogs initially not only becau e our mom believes in community service, but because we needed mor 'socialization'. Accordingly, she took us to a Ronald MacDonald facili .. to a school for autistic children, to a hospital for brain-damaged peirsaas. later to a skilled nursing facility and then to a Transitional Care local hospital. Each was interesting in its own way, and now we are deciding where we can best help next. Because of our extensive hours working under the aegis of Therapy Dogs International, we received their top award.

CH. MOONSHADOW RHAPSODY IN WOOL CD (March 12th, 1992 - January 21st, 2008)

Best of Opposite Sex PCA National Specialty 1999

Scmu oJ 1JOU will ~ fwt, jJw.m fwt, 6fww. caJtll/t,.

Wliat a gi,d! Sudi a 6Jud! Sa.du wa,., a fPi£al ~6tUUJJt f,cJt tire 6JtUd 6ut nw1te

Sfu wa,., paid oJ owt famibl. l9wt ~ wre f,ull o/, Sa.du 6~ to. tltea6wre.

We~ fwt, and will mi66 fwt,


TOP PULI IN CANADA 2006 AND 2007

Canadian/Danish CH. Hawksfield's Lelek of Liswil

Owners: Lisa Avery (Liswil Perm. Reg'd) & Joanne Griffith

7 Mystic Crt. Brantford, Ontario, N3R 7E5

Int. Ch. Mamaros Adu Albi (Top all breed in Denmark 1998)

Sire: Ch Black'n Blues White Adu Albi (Breeder Bodil Rusz)

Int Ch.Napfenyvarosi Csahos "JOSAG" ( Res. Winner Best In Show World Show Amsterdam 2002)

Ch. Ellsmar's Zappa on Deck Dam: Ch Hawksfield's Tisza

Honey


PCA SUPPORTED ENTRIES I March 7-8, 2008 PCA

2-Day Supported Entry - Franklin, TN Tullahoma Kennel Club of Tennessee

Williamson Co Ag Park, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN

Supported Entries on Friday and Saturday, part of the four-day "Country Music Cluster," Mar 6-9, 2008.

Closing date: Wed Feb 20, 2008 Superintendent I Secretary:

Onofrio Dog Shows, L.L.C. PO Box 25764 Oklahoma City, OK 73125-0764 (405) 427-8181

March 7: Nashville KC Breed: Mrs. Nancy Liebes; Group: Mr. James White; BIS: Dr. Robert Berndt

March 8: Tullahoma KC of TN Breed: Mr. Roger Hartinger;

Group: Mrs. Sulie Greendale-Paveza; BIS: Mrs. Nancy Liebes

Obedience and Rally on Friday and Saturday only

Make your plans now to join us in March for our supported entry in Franklin TN. We are planning a great party at the home of PCA members Les Stallings and Glen VanderHart. There will be a reserved grooming area at the show site for Puli people and we can arrange motor home parking in one area for all Puli people if they let me know ahead of time. Anyone wanting reserved grooming space should let me know in advance. Please specify the number of crates, chairs and grooming tables you will be bringing. We are having sweepstakes on Friday and Saturday, so that will mean extra ringtime for puppies ( and veterans, too) . The cluster features a Best Veteran and Best Puppy competition as well. Direct all inquiries to Sherry Gibson. PH: 931-596-3224; Email: [email protected] Come on down and enjoy the Southern Hospitality! Hope to see you then.

April, 2008 PCA Supported Entry Harrisburg, PA

Supported Entry at the "Blue & Gray Cluster, " which runs from April 10-13, 2008.

Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex Northwest Bldg, Maclay & Cameron Sts, Harrisburg, PA

Closing date: Wed Mar 26, 2008

Saturday, April 12, 2008 in conjunction with the Harrisburg Kennel Club

Breed: Mr. Paul F. Wilhauck; Group: Mr. Paul F. Wilhauck;

BIS: Ms. Angela J. Porpora

Sunday, April 13 , 2008 in conjunction with the Mason & Dixon KC

Breed: Mrs. Tomas (Alane L.) Gomez Group: Mrs. Tomas (Alane L.) Gomez

BIS: Mr. Jamieson (Rick) R. Glendinning

Superintendent/ Secretary: Jim Rau Dog Shows, Ltd.

PO Box 6898, Reading, PA 19610-0898, (610) 376-1880

August, 2008 PCA Supported Entry Date August 2, 2008

Salem VA Salem Civic Center

100 I Boulevard Salem, VA

Supported Entry at the "The "Mountain Valley Cluster" held on Roanoke Kennel Club's day. The show is located in Salem, VA and it is a 5 day cluster. There will be an eye and heart clinic on Thursday, CGC on Thursday and a match on Friday night. It is indoors and air conditioned.

Breed: Anna Quigley Group: TBA

BIS: TBA

Closing Date: Wednesday - July 16, 2008

MB-F Inc., Superintendent

For additional information contact: Sherry Harman

2009 Asheville, NC

Asheville Kennel Club, Inc June 2009

More details to follow

Contact Barbe Pessina if you are interested in having a PCA supported entry in your area.

[email protected]


PCA SPECIALTY INFORMATION I 2008 National Specialty

October 9-12, Urbana, Ohio

Champaign County Fairgrounds, SR 68 & SR 55, Urbana, OH 43078

( all three days are in conjunction with All-Breed shows)

PCA Designated Specialty (THIS IS THE NATIONAL SPECIAL TY) Mad River KC

Friday, Oct. 10, 2008 Judges:

Futurity ( all classes): Tomas Attila Paulsen Olaj , Norway Sweepstakes ( all classes ): TBA

National Specialty : Mrs. Barbe Pessina Herding Group: June Penta

Obedience TBA

PCA Designated Specialty - Licking River Kennel Club Saturday, Oct. 11 , 2008

Conformation Wendy Willhauck [ Breed and Group] Obedience TBA

PCA Designated Specialty - Mad River Kennel Club Sunday, Oct. 12, 2008

Conformation Gary Newton [ Breed and Group ]

Unfortunately there will be no Agility. Herding is still on the agenda.

We will keep you apprised of the developments

HOTEL Holiday Inn, Springfield South I-70 at Exit 54, 383 E Leffel Lane, Springfield, OH 45505 Ph: 937-323-863 l

Rate: $80.00 plus 12 1/2% tax ( no pet fee)

There is no elevator however the Holiday Inn will make all possible effort to put us on the 1st floor. HOWEVER, you must book

early ! Handicapped rooms feature 1 double bed. The hotel is 18.2 miles from the Fairgrounds ( 20 min and a very easy drive ).

PLEASE MENTION THAT YOU ARE WITH THE PULi CLUB OF AMERICA.

AIRPORTS - Columbus, Ohio ( 45 miles) Cincinnati International , Ohio ( 75 miles)

Saturday , Oct 24 , 2009 Designated Specialty


2009 National Specialty October 23-25 Dixon, CA

SHOW SITE: Dixon County Fairgrounds 655 S 1 Street, Dixon, CA 95620

Friday , Oct 23 , 2009 Designated National Specialty Saturday , Oct 24 , 2009 Designated Specialty Sunday , Oct 25, 2009 Designated Specialty

NATIONAL SPECIAL TY JUDGE : Ms Sherry Gibson

ALL-BREED CLUB ( S ) ASSOCIA TJON Friday - NCH GA ( Northern Cal ifornia Herding Group Assoc) Saturday, Sunday -SVDFA ( Sacramento Valley Dog Fanciers Assoc)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION This location is very convenient for those driving. Dixon is located practically at the intersection ofl-5 and 1-80. 1-5 is the major North, South expressway from and to Southern California and 1-80 is a major East, West thoroughfare from and to the East.

The Friday show ( which we will consider our National ) is a Herding Group Show. The 808 Puli will compete in the Group. There wiJI be a Class for Herding Titled Dogs and Bitches (these two class winners compete for BOB, but not for WD or WB).

**PCA ROOM RESPONSIBILITY POLICY**

PCA has adopted the following rules in order to insure that the members and their dogs will be welcome at hotels in the future .

Any individual attending a PCA Sanctioned Event and staying in a hotel , motel , inn or campsite/fairground has the responsibility of leaving that room or campsite exactly as found . This includes picking up after dogs on the grounds. Anyone who damages a room or campsite/fairgrounds and does not report the damage to the hotel/campsite/fairground management and make immediate restitution or arrangements to do so within a period of time agreed upon by the management, will be subject to any or all the following actions by the PCA Board of Directors.

1. May be banned from showing at the next PCA sanctioned event[s]. 2. May be subject to AKC sanctions. 3. Membership in PCA may be terminated and may not be allowed to be reinstated .

DAMAGES SHALL BE DEFINED AS : 1. Flea infestation, urine, defecation and/or any damage to hotel/

campsite/fairground property [ walls , bedspreads, carpets, drapes, etc.]. 2. Any verified complaint by the host hotel/campsite/fairground. 3. Any verified complaint by a PCA member.

PCA ROOM REGULATIONS : 1. All dogs must be crated and quiet when left alone in a room. Noisy

dogs shall be quieted upon request, even if this means the owner/ handler must stay in the room with the dog. 2. Individuals will be expected to immediately report any damage by

dogs or themselves to the hotel/campsite/fa irground management and to assume complete financial responsibility for those damages. 3. No bathing or grooming will be allowed in rooms. A grooming room will be available whenever possible. 4. Dogs are to be allowed on furniture ONLY if the furniture is covered

with protective covering provided by the owner/handler. 5. All owner/handlers will take preventative measures to assure that

their dogs are free of fleas, mites, intestinal parasites and other communicable diseases prior to arriving at the hotel/campsite.

BY SIGNIN G THE ENTRY FORM, COMPLIANCE WITH THIS POLICY SHALL BE INSURED. ALL INDIVIDUALS ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLY.

Lazio Jozef Benis Born in Budapest, Hungary 1932

"Les Benis"

Les was truly the modem Renaissance man. Unknown to some people, Les had three equally powerful passions in his life starting with Photography at a very young age, then Glider Flying, which later incorporated piloting power planes, and thirdly his passion for dogs, particularly the Hungarian Puli . His passions were at times intertwined - for example when he would pilot his own plane to a dog show with his Puli, and sometimes

- :s::. even transport the dog show photographer, and then proceed to take pictures at the show and later develop them in his own darkroom at home.

Photography was a big part of Les' being and he was a true perfectionist. To improve his photography he took lessons from Ansel Adams and built his own darkroom in his house in California. He loved to photograph scenery, wildlife, Puli and his family . We have even have an 8mm film of the PCA First Independent Specialty, well before professional dog show videos were popular.

Beginning as a teenager in Hungary Les' flying was very much a lifelong spirit within him, logging over 8000 hours in

many types of aircraft. He was a life time member of the Soaring Society of America since 1957. Long time fellow PCA member Bill Pohlmann authored the book "Sunday Pilot...Airbome tales of a weekend flyer" and Bill wrote in the book he gave to Les, "To my long time friend and flying buddy, without whose companionship many of the adventures in the book would never have happened" . Les was happy to be a "Sunday Pilot" but also pushed himself further to win many flying titles and contests.

Les was very proud of his Hungarian heritage and also of the Hungarian dog breeds, obtaining his AKC judges license for the Puli, Komondor, and Kuvasz and authored or co-authored breed books on each of the three breeds. His accomplishments in the Puli world, together with Klara Benis, are well known and documented in this newsletter. He also was a FCI judge for all breeds and his AKC judges license number was O 131 ! Les had judged in the United States, Hungary, Mexico, New Zealand, Sydney, Australia and Tasmania. Les was a remarkable judge, sometimes placing a young exhibit Best of Breed over Specials - often an unpopular decision with the exhibitors. He would be very pleased when years later these same dogs became Multiple Group and Best in Show winners.

In his retirement years in Nevada Les was the President of the Reno Kennel Club and received their Good Sportsmanship Award in 2004. He was also a member of the Bonanza Kennel Club, Nevada for the past 12 years . He would often actively engage judges at our local shows in conversation to educate them about the history and standard of the Puli. Over the year Les had also presented many educational seminars on the Puli - the last one he presented was a few years ago for the Los Angles Judges Education Association with long time friend and PCA member Anita Ritenour who kindly brought her dogs for the presentation.

I obtained my first Puli from Les Benis in 1967 and then diverted into breeding Belgian Tervuren for 35 years. If there is anything l learned from Les about the Puli was that he was extremely passionate about their heritage and about maintaining: the Puli's athletic and acrobatic ability; their square ness and moderate size: and maintaining full dentition.

Good-bye Les, until we meet again . Love,

Agnes Benis Minden, Nevada

Puli News - February 2008, Page I 5

Remembering Les By

Tom Motter

I remember my wife, Jerry Ann, going on and on about him long before we ever met. She owned a shaggy white (Well, sort of white) mongrel which she claimed was a "Puli mix" and never let up on how lucky anyone would be to be able to actually own a real pure bred Puli.

She would pour over "This is the Puli" and point to pictures of Les and Klara with Eva Gabor and the Pohlmanns, as if they were celebrities on a par with the Beatles. Finally, one day, I' d had enough and wanted of course to please her always anyway, so I picked up the phone and called information. I dialed the number I was given and a female voice answered the phone. " ls this the Benis residence?" I asked boldly. A long pause, and I'm sure Klara must have considered saying "Wrong number." as surely, I must have sounded like an IRS auditor. Finally she said "Yes" and then I boldly blurted out the rest of my question, "Do you have any Pulis for sale?" A very long pause . . . "Do you know what a Puli is?" Well, after I explained my wife's preoccupation with Pulik for the last few years and the dog-eared condition of Les ' book, Klara was satisfied that we might be O.K.

1980 - Les picking a foundat ion bitch for the Matters Kisafokl Kennels

"The Pohlmann 's have just had a litter". She gave me their phone number and I phoned and spoke with Barbara. We hit it off immediately, kindred spirits and all that. I was working in SoCal a lot, so just went to Palos Verdes a week later on business, to pick out a puppy and drop off a check. Barb had phoned Les and given him a heads up that I was coming, so when I showed up, there was Les in her back yard, bent over looking at eight week old puppies. He'd driven all the way from Tarzana out of curiosity wanting to meet this crazy nut, I suppose, who had

threatened to get into showing in conformation big-time.

Barbara had a bottle of fine wine waiting for me and we talked Pulis. I told Les I'd read his book. He said "Good! Go stack rank those puppies! " I got out pencil and paper and went over to the group of five or six puppies, all with different colored ribbons and set to work. When I was done, I asked Les to do the same without showing him my results. He went over and got down on bis hands and knees and crawled around the yard after them, picked them up, palpated their structure, weighed and measured and then came back and announced he was done. I said "Great! Tell me the correct rank order, so I can see how I did." He announced the colored ribbons in order and then looked at me with that twinkle in his eye. I turned over my piece of paper which matched his choices exactly and he was absolutely flabbergasted . It was only then that he realized I really had read his book, (apparently, repeatedly! ) and we immediately became fiiends on the spot for Life. This same scene was repeated many times as the years went by.

Well, the day came that I had to tell Jerry Ann we were getting a real Puli. She was ecstatic, bordering on hysteria. It's not very often that a husband gets a chance to play the hero for his best girl but this was one of those rare times. She was crazy out of her mind with anticipation. Pohlmann 's said they were coming up to Yosemite with the kids for a holiday and could we meet them and pick up the puppy. No problem!

They told us the time and place in the park to meet and on the given day at the appointed hour they showed up. (We'd already been there way ahead of time.) However, the surprise of the day wasn ' t the puppy, although it was a big deal. Following behind the Pohlmanns were the Benis 's in their motor home. When Les climbed out and introduced himself to Jerry Ann and gave

Puli .\ ·ews - February 2008,

her a hug like she was family, well, her feet floated right up off the ground and she never touched back down the rest of the day. Klara smiled knowingly and then yelled at Andy not to get so close to the water fall as Les started snapping photos in all directions, as of course, Ansel Adams was one of his heroes and, after all, this was the place!

Several years later, after we'd started our breeding program, we'd had a litter and Les, as he always did whenever we had a litter, drove the four hundred miles along with Pohlmanns up to our farm in NorCal to rank the puppies. Les and I did our Little game and matched up, as usual. This was the litter from which we picked Kis Alfold Forgoszel (Szelish) who went on to become an International Champion, won the breed at Westminster and, more recently, has served as grand dam to two out of the top five conformation Pulik for about the last eight years.

That was fun, but the real story on this trip was Kasbasca! As we strolled through the orchards with the Pohlmanns, kids and Pulik and marveled at the apple blossoms, Les mused about the good old days in Hungary and how he missed the little things , like Hungarian Kabasca. That about stopped me in my tracks. Unbeknownst to him, the Corralitos store, Jess than a mile away, was practically world famous for its on-site production of Hungarian Kabasca. Les said, "Oh, sure." Or something like that to be polite, not hurt my feelings and humor me. Later, when I walked into the house and set it before him on the table, be looked at it and raised an eyebrow way up. Could it be?

He cut a small piece off the tip end and placed it with a slight degree of trepidation on bis tongue. Well, he got a look only a cartoon character could reproduce on his face and then jumped to his feet as if hit by a bolt of lightening. " It 's real! " he announced and then immediately asked me to take him back to the store, as this would not be nearly enough. Well, we all ate ourselves sick on Kabasca and he hauled at least another five pounds home with him that trip . There are so many things I could tell you about Les, but I ' II end it with this one.

We were all up in Napa on some circuit and decided that on the off-day, we'd go wine tasting. We all had cars. I had a big van but no back seats. It was me, Jerry Ann, Les and Klara, Barbara and Bill Pohlmann and Barry and Judy Becker. Everyone decided that we should go in my van so I could be the designated driver and everyone else could taste. The solution to the seat problem, according to our fearless leader, Les, was to put everyone's folding dog-show chairs in the back for seats. Well, after about the fourth or fifth tasting stop, the taster's reflexes were gone. Whenever I took off from a stop, no matter bow carefully or made a turn, the folding chairs would collapse and down everyone would go. There were non-stop whoops of laughter as everyone rolled around the back of the van and Les just egged it all on. He did so like to raise cane!

1982 - Les and the Pohlmanns at the Matters fann

I can't remember who said it, but it certainly is true about Les:

"Every man is a piece of the rock, a part of the main. And so when a piece of the rock is washed away and the bell tolls, ask not, for whom the bell tolls .. .It tolls for thee!"

Tom Motter

l I

t

'

I asked Klara Benis some questions regarding showing Pulis in the early years in the United States, below are her responses - Alex Davis ~ Editor

In the late 60s and early 70s. when we first started showing Pulis the big question and constant subject of dissention was the corded vs. combed Pulis as well as the question of size. At the time, the dominant breeders were Mrs. Anderson and Mrs. Owen. Their Pulis and their progeny were doing most of the winnings. These Pulis were quite a bit larger than the ones shown today, they were all brushed/combed and most of them had straight, almost shiny coats. When we started importing and showing our dogs from Hungary we were most certainly not welcome on the scene. The corded Puli was referred to as "unkempt" dirty" etc. We actually showed our first few champions brushed out to avoid being totally ignored by judges. After finishing a few champions the judges began to take notice of the smooth gait, agility, and generally good structure of these imports. Then, we slowly started to "brave" showing the corded ones, with increasing success. VERY slowly the prejudice against them started to subside.

In the early days (late 60s) we traveled mostly on the West Coast. Usually Les and Klara showing "Csibesz" and Ch.Gyati csopi who was finished

driving Friday night and returning after the Group Sunday evening. We brushed rather than corded.

were young, without kids at the time. Often, we traveled together with Bob ...._ __________________ __,

and Anne Kennedy, great allies in our cause of having Hungarian imports accepted in the US. Bob and Anne came with us to Hungary to bring back a couple of dogs for their breeding program. ("Pulikountry." was their kennel name.) We drove for weekend shows as far as Albuquerque, Phoenix, San Francisco, I remember many weekends getting home in the early hours Monday just before having to go to work. Then, for longer trips, to Denver, and a couple of times we actually drove across the country to some specialties on the East Coast as well as to the Westminster Show.

Particularly hard were the then very popular Benched Shows. Even though they were a great way to popularize and introduce different breeds to the general public, it was very hard on the exhibitors. Even when we had nothing to show in the Group, we all had to stay ' til the end of the day.

Csibesz, (Am/Mex/inti. Ch Cinkotai Csibesz) was probably Les ' favorite dog, not only because he was the most loveable gentle Puli, but because Les achieved most of his early success' with Csibesz. Aside from being shown all over the US we took him to Mexico City and then to Europe. He was shown in France, Luxembourg. Hungary and Czechoslovakia to finish his FCI Intl. championship. While we were in France to show Csibesz, I had to stay in Paris for 3 days with Csibesz while Les flew to London to take movies of the National Herding trials. Otherwise Csibesz would have been subject to a 6 mos. quarantine.

After our kids (Andris and Evi) were born we bought a motor home and for the following l 0 years the shows became a pleasant family time. Practically every weekend was spent at a show. Several of our Puli friends had motor homes, we would park next to each other and the kids had a group of friends to play with while we groomed and showed the dogs. During these years (70 ' s and early 80's) Les and Barry Becker alternated showing our (co-owned)

Pulis. They would often fly across the country to important shows, mostly with Kocos ...__ ____________ __. (Gyalpusztai Kocos Burkus) and Minka, (Sasvolgyi Puszi Pajtas) and some others, whose

names escape me! There is no need for me to list the many achievements of those days, they are well documented in other places.

You asked me ifl had a favorite Puli. Yes, I did. Ch. Nagykunsagi Rojtos (Rojti) (on page 175 of Les' book) She was one ofour earliest imports .She picked up a bug in transit when she was flown here from Hungary and was very sick when she arrived. It took

weeks to nurse her back to health. I guess that's when we got attached to each other. She was also the only one I have shown in obedience. ( with limited success). She finished her AKC Championship , but never had any further show success. That, of course, didn ' t make me love her less ! !

I have only been to one dog show during the last ten years. The Specialty in Pleasanton, CA that Les judged. I was VERY impressed ith the quality of the dogs shown and the uniformity of the breed. Also, the enthusiasm at ring side brought back pleasant

memories of old dog show days. Klara

Pu/i News - Febniary 2008, Page I 7

LES BENIS CHAMPION OF THE PULi

IN LOVING MEMORY, KAREN &ZOLTAN KOCSONDY AND YOUR BELOVED PUUK

Remembering Les Benis

Karen and I met Les Benis for the first time in 2003 at Bardstown. We had become acquainted via the phone as we contacted him to see if he could help us. Needless to say, Les and Agnes enthusiastically welcomed our intrusion and a friendship began. The support, the encouragement, the mentoring, Les offered Karen and I was boundless. The talks, the questions, the consternations , we did it all! And Les did not tire of us. We are so glad we had a chance to meet in 2003 and again in 2004, and we got to see him in action in 2005 as he judged the Specialty!

In 2003 in Bardstown Les and Agnes offered us a very special gift .. "This Is The Puli" dedicated and signed by the author Les Benis. We understood that daughter Evi found it and procured it for dad , who so kindly gave it to Karen and I. We already miss Les terribly, but we will never forget his kindness and support of our Puli adventure. Like Patti G., Les was totally available and willing to advise and help us with any Puli and showing issues.

Les and Agnes supported everything I roped them into, more recently sharing in sending a trophy to the Puli Festival in Karcag , Hungary this past October.


LES BENIS CHAMPION OF THE PULi

OUR FRIEND, OUR MENTOR, OUR LOSS!

IN LOVING MEMORY, KAREN & ZOLTAN KOCSONDY AND YOUR BELOVED PULIK

When Karen and I were visiting Hungary in 2003 we came across a young man who was being mentored by Dr Bordacs and through that coincidence we were able to reunite Les with Dr Bordacs, who at 88 is still dispensing advice to all who are willing to listen . Les talked to him frequently in the past few years.

We got to enjoy the Benis Family Calendar last year and so also enjoyed the photography that is nonparallel.

We are grateful that Les was willing to befriend Karen and I. His loss will be felt for as long as we live.

Good bye Dear Friend, we will miss you and remember you for your love, kindness , and friendship, right to the last of your days.

It's A Puli not a Dog!

Zoltan & Karen Kocsondy, also our Pulik, Kormos, Medve (Bear), & Remy

Puli News - Febniary 2008, Page /9

E-MAILS I RECEIVED ON SENDING NOTICE OF THE PASSING OF LES BENIS. ZOLTAN KOCSONDY

Nov 1st 2007

Even those of us who love our brushed Pulis have honored this man for many years. Thank you/or le/ling me know ... .... MeE

Les and Pany Giancaterino

Thanks for letting everyone know. He will be greatly missed. We had dinner with him and Agnes about a year ago in Carson City and had a great time talking about Pulis. Our breed has lost one of its most dedicated proponents Ross

I am so sorry to hear this! To many ofus who have been showing Pulik as long as I have Les seemed immortal. I first met him in 1975 and when I saw him last around 2002 he seemed to have hardly changed. Another legend is gone. I hope he and all the original Puli people are taking care of our dogs at the Rainbow Bridge . Abbe

I am shocked and saddened to hear this, as I am sure everyone else is Michael

Like everyone, I am shocked and saddened to lose Les Benis. While I did not know him well, I foun d him extremely knowledgeable, helpful and kind. He shall be profoundly missed and I am wondering what kind of memorial/tribute would be appropriate. Melinda

How sad, he was such a gentleman and a great dog person. He will be missed. Nancy

I am terribly sorry to hear about Les. It is up to us Youngsters to keep the breed alive in U.S. With Puli Love, Don

Oh Zoltan I am speechless and so upset he was a wonderful man. I do not know what to write. I will send a note to Agnes. What a tragic loss. Alex

Thank you for forwarding this very sad news. It is a great loss not only to his family and friends but also to the entire world of the Puli. We have looked up to him for many years and marveled at his knowledge and dedication. He will be greatly missed. With our deep sorrow Bernie and Bobbie

I was so sorry to hear about Les's death. I know you were a good friend of his and imagine this is a great loss to you. Though I just met him once, I know he was a great Puli judge. Best. Carole

We and our Pulik have truly lost a friend and a legend. We had the honor of meeting him when I was showing our first PULi, Muki in 1975 . She was a Hungarian import, about I year old with a coat

'---" -"""""-"'"""'"'-' that corded completely on its ~---A-n-ne- Ro_g_e-rs_C_l-ar_k_a-nd- L-es---~I own! I couldn't keep her .__ _ ___________ _ __, brushed. I got hi s book as a gift

and have been reading it ever since! There weren't many corded dogs back !hen. He will be remembered for the legacy he leaves behind. Please extend our

sorrow and prayers to his fami ly Mary Ann & Don


I was saddened to read about Les's death. We lost a good Puli person.

Steve

Hope everything is "ok" despite the loss of such a great Pu Ii-father that Les was for us all. My last e-mail correspondence with Les was in September, so it feels so strange. Sincerely, Tomas

www.youtube.com/andybenis Folks a very nice tribute to Les Benis done by his son, Andy Benis. A memorial video made for his service. Zoltan

My most memorable time with Les was August of 1982 when he took a group of dog people to Hungary.

It was a wonderful trip where Les took us touring around Hungary.

We went to wonderful bakeries, dog shows, great meals with local breeders and visited the Putza.

Linn Hiett Mt. Hood Puli

Remembering Les Benis

I first came to know Les as many of us did through his book "This is the Puli." When I lived in England these books were hard to find and I treasured my copy, especially for the pictures of Pulis that were found many generations back in my dogs ' pedigrees. I never thought I would met Les, having missed the opportunity years ago during a trip to the US as a child.

About 9 years ago I was at a show in Conejo, CA, grooming my Pulis when a man came up to us and stood looking at my dogs for several minutes. I was used to people watching me groom my Pulis, so I took no notice of him! He then said " I like your Puli". We started to talk about the breed and my dogs and then after several minutes he said he had met my mother! I asked how, and he said when she was visiting the US in the ?O's with Pat Lanz (Borgvaale). On the way home I called my mother in the U.K. to say I had met the famous Les Benis!

My husband, David, and I saw Les and Agnes several times more on the West Coast usually at shows in Nevada. At one show in Reno. Les told me about a local artist that had made him a comical Puli out of clay. He said I should buy one too and so I did -sight unseen as she did not have a Puli model at the show. When it arrived I was delighted as it truly was a lovely funny smiling Puli.

I looked forward to many Specialties after we moved East, when we would see Les and Agnes. My fondest memory was flying back to Pleasanton, CA in 2005 for the National. After the judging, Les and Agnes asked my mother (Ann Arch) and myself to join them for breakfast the following morning and it was wonderful to sit at the breakfast table and hear Les and my mother talk about the breed. As I grow older I sadly realize that those moments are priceless .

I was honored that Les awarded my "Missy" Best Opposite Sex, at that Specialty and so sad that we have lost a person who loved and was so passionate about our breed and genuinely cared about it 's future. Alex Davis & David Stackleather

I was with great sadness I received the news of Les Benis passing. My entire life with Pulis included the presence of Les. When we got our f irst Puli in the early 70 ' s , Les was a motivating force in the Puli Club of Southern California. I will always cherish in my memory the tour to Hungary he organized and we participated in in the early 80 's . PCA was blessed to be able to have him judge at the nat ional specialty in 2005. This past March , a friend of mine and myself took a ski t r ip to Tahoe. One evening we met Les and his wife, Agnes at a local casino restaurant for dinner. I will always cherish in my memory that last t ime spent with Les. Goodbye, old fr iend, the Puli world has lost a great one.

Les organized a tr ip to Hungary in 1982 for Hungarian dog breed breeders and fanciers . Much of the arrangements for activit ies in Hungary were made by his sister who still lives there. We had Puli , Komondor, Kuvasz, and Viszla fo lks on the trip. It began in Budapest. Les rented a luxury Mercedes bus in Austr ia and drove it to Hungary. Hungary was still a communist dominated country at that time and soon aft er Les crossed the border from Austria into Hungary, he was pu lled over and

.t.,~. detained by authorities. I th ink the guise was a traff ic violation. He was released several hours later. Also on the t r ip were now departed Julius and Terri Hidassy. PCA member Art Sorkin was also on the tr ip. Both the Hidassys and Les came out of Hungary during the 1955-56 upris ing.

We focused most of our act ivities on Hungarian dogs and saw working Pulis . A

..---------------------..,memorable day was spent at a Hungarian hunt club where demonstrations of fie ld wor k Les is in the middle, the other two men are Hungarian Kennel Club officials with Viszlas was enjoyed. Later in the evening our group was treated to dinner at the

.__ ___________________ _. hunt club. I th ink that is where, after several shots of pcil inka, I was speaking fluent Hungarian. We attended a local dog show near Budapest and an international show there as wel l. Art Sorkin judged t he Komondors at the national dog show. In addit ion to Budapest, we visited the Lake Balat on area and the Hortobcigy National Park where we saw t he racka sheep and nonius horses. The horses in these pictures are nonius horses r idden by csikos, Hungarian "cowboys". Also , never to be fo rgotten, was t he incred ible pastry shop in downtown Budapest. I th ink I still have fat cells leftover from t hat one. Anita Ritenour

Les was really fun to talk to. He had so many experiences with breeding and showing Pulik, and if you could get him to talk about them, you were in for a treat.

Many of you old timers may remember his telling about the first time he took a corded Puli into the ring here in the US . At that time, of course, all Pulik were shown

brushed. Apparently the j udge was not going to let him bring that corded dog into the ring. Les had to convince the j udge that cording really was allowed by the standard, so

the judge got a copy right then and there and read it. He agreed with Les and let the dog in. As I recall the story, the judge put that dog up.

I found his accounts of those days fascinat ing. As a Hungarian, Les had a vision of what the real Puli is, and he tried to educate judges and breeders in any way he could. I am

told he played a key role in a number of changes in the structure of Puli clubs and played an important role in the updating of AK.C's Puli Standard.

As Anita points out, the Puli Club of America was fortunate that Les judged the National in 2005. It was a great chance for more people wi th Pulik to meet him and see him in

action.

In recent years, if a Puli was entered in a show near Reno (like the Carson City shows), Les and Agnes would always stop by to talk and to cheer on the Puli in Group judging. I saw him again last summer, and he still displayed that mental vigor and focus that he had when I first met him. I can't believe he's gone. But the Puli breed is better for his having

come our way.

Jim Moen

When Tom and I attended the Specialty in St Louis, we first J'net "the famous Les Benis." A bit in awe, we held back and watched him generously, graciously share his Puli experience and expertise. When Zsofi approached Les and Agnes, wagged her tail and wiggled, they reminisced about their Pulik and said how they missed having their own. They were delighted by Zsofi's attentions and when they made some reference to missing the snuggling, I suggested they take Zsofi for the weekend. And so our Zsofi shared a mutually delightful three nights with Agnes and Les - very likely in their bed!

Melinda Peters

LES BEN IS

There will be few, if any, Puli folk whose dog's pedigrees do not carry the breeding of stock owned or bred by Les Ben is. I was therefore saddened to learn that he died suddenly at the end of October.

Look back in your pedigrees and you will find such greats as AM CH GY AL PUSZT Al KOCOS BURK.US, AM/FCI CH CINKOT AI CSIBESZ to name but two of his early imports into America from his native Hungary. In the early times when Les went to live in the freedom of America, Pulis were shown with brushed out coats, as many pictures in the early books illustrate.

Les had the distinction of taking CSIB ESZ to become the first corded Puli to take Group First (and also won at Best in Show level), and CH SASVOLGYl HUNNAI PUSZI PAJTAS (called 'Minka') to become the first corded Puli bitch to go Best in Show in the USA. He imported the corded CH GY ALI CSOPI who they combed out, due to the Puli with cords being unknown in America!

For most ofus, our first knowledge of this wonderful Puli man was to obtain a copy of his book "This is the Puli" published in the TFH series in 1976 the same time that Mrs Sylvia Owen of the famous Skysyl produced her book "The Complete Puli" .

It was a pleasure to meet and talk with thi s gentleman. His knowledge of the breed and utter devotion to it will li ve on fa r beyond the few of us who had the pleasure of listening to, and learning from, him. Anyone who had the fortune to attend the PCA 50th Anniversary Show on the' West Coast in 2005, will have a copy of the Club's 50 Years Book, which records their first halfcentury, and to which Les contributed in both script and pictures.

"Gone, but not forgotten" a true Puli lover. Ann Arch


Many years ago, my Special became seriously ill at a National Specialty. I was two thousand miles away from home with no car and no roommate; the show veterinarian wanted to make a diagnosis over the phone, and an emergency room vet administered a useless band-aid solution. My dog continued to decline, and as the veterinarian who ultimately cared for him told me later, would likely have died had the show chairman not gotten my dog to her personal vet (thank you, Carolyn and Bob!) As dog show experiences go, those were the darkest days I ever knew.

The veterinarian did what he could and sent us on our way loaded with IVs and hypodermics. My hotel room became an intensive care unit as I kept vigil over my dog whom I dared not leave for a moment. It was a lonely time in the midst of the bustle of a National Specialty. It wasn ' t that no one cared. There just wasn ' t much anyone could do. One person, however, did find something they could do for me.

Les Benis

Hungarian, and the fact that he knew 1 was "onto" him was more pivotal to our relationship than was my simply understanding him. Outrageous story telling, I've come to decide, is imprinted on the DNA of Hungarian men and I've seen more than one rapt listener succumb to the charms of an otherwise unbelievable tale. In a room full of people, I could catch Les ' eye from across the room and know when he was pulling someone's leg. And then I'd get " the look." Though Les told a good story, he wasn't very good at hiding a sheepish look of guilt when found out. He gave as good as he got, however, and never let me live down the moment I set my acrylic nail on fire while lighting a candle at a banquet. Les got a lot of mileage out of that.

Thankfully, he was more merciful in a show ring. I had the pleasure of competing with Les, as well as showing under him, and no matter which "hat" he wore, he had a twinkle in his eye, almost as if he knew something you didn ' t. This was a little unnerving when we were competing in a Best of Breed ring, but downright comforting when he was my judge. His apparent delight when judging the Puli always reminded me of the privilege it is to live with a breed that could have died out during the war. Though Les had a critical eye for the breed, he really loved the breed. As obvious a statement as this may seem, let me explain that by loving the breed, I mean that he showed affection for every Puli with whom he came into contact. If there was a Puli nearby, Les

gladly, he never held it against their dogs. Each one was, after all, a Puli .

I suppose it ' s inevitable that we mellow with time, and Les was no exception in the 30 years I knew him. But he never wavered in his passion about the Puli, and about his family. In earlier days, we would debate about missing pre-molars, how to groom cords, white Pulik, grey Pulik and so on. But more recently, he proudly shared his granddaughter' s accomplishments on the pitch (field) after learning of my son's involvement in soccer. He was proud of Agnes, too, and literally beamed when he brought her to her first Specialty as his wife. I'm not so sure I made such a good impression, that having been the time I set my nail on fire; . but Les was a loyal sort and simply shrugged as if to say that even pyromaniacs were people, too.

With Les ' passing, the Puli world has lost its mentor, its shepherd, it' s "keeper of the flame." but many of us have also lost a friend - the face we look for at a National Specialty every year. It ' s unfathomable to me that I will never again see that sheepish grin or the twinkle in the eye. Les may have felt it was a privilege to live with a Puli, but for me the real privilege was having Les as a friend. I'm only beginning to understand how much he will be missed.

Susi.E.Szeremy

The knock on my door came while everyone else was at an evening function. And when I opened the door, there stood Les Benis holding a tray of food and drinks. He'd noticed that I hadn't been at any of the meals. He 'd noticed that I was alone. Over the next several hours, he brought me soda and snacks, helped diffuse my agonizing worry, and kept me company. Though Les had been a friendly acquaintance when he knocked on my door that night, he left as a very good friend. Over time, I realized that this was Les: would be petting it. If it was dog that _ .... ....,.,...---..--..,.....,..He caught details. He appreciated nuance, and while most people see what' s in front of them, Les noticed what was missing. And he usually did something about it. I leave it to others to discuss the many accomplishments Les garnered over his life. My memories of Les are about friendship. Ours was rooted in our shared ethnicity. Les was, of course,

he had left out of the ribbons earlier in the day, he would be murmuring in its ear that night. In the end, what mattered was that they were Pulik. It is a variation of "hate the sin, love the sinner, that while Les didn ' t suffer fools

Les Benis

How does one find the words to memorialize the impact that one individual has on so many lives. I first met Les in the mid to late 70's, and still remember watching him in the ring at one of my first specialties when he showed Ch. Sasvolgyi Hunnia Zsiga. What a treat to watch him run around the ring. Les is and was considered the father of the breed in this country; and his generosity in sharing his love and knowledge should set an example for all ofus.

I remember purchasing his book, This is The Puli, and sitting for hours studying each and every photo in the book. He was fundamental in imprinting in my mind the outline and style of the breed. Of course, this was at a time in the history of the breed when there were somewhat radically different styles of dogs in the show ring. Over the years we enjoyed many a good conversation at specialties on both the breed, and Hungary; traditional Hungarian foods that we both enjoyed, and the adverse effects of too much Bulls Blood (Hungarian red wine). In the end, the discussion always came back to where was the breed today and what did we need to improve and hold true to the standard.

We had an email discussion just a few weeks before he died. They were getting ready for a visit to California before the winter weather set in. He said he had spent the previous day in the hot tub all day, and that life was good. He sounded happy and content and ful I of ideas on the breed that he wanted to discuss when he got back. I believe that Les has left a legacy in the Puli breed that will never dissipate - he'll always be there; always be remembered and will always set a standard for the rest ofus to achieve.

Barbara Pessina


Andy Benis, Susi Szeremy, Jesper Ravn & Barbara Pessina, Californian Specialty 2005

Remembering Les

His passion for the breed The many deep conversations at specialties

His interest in anything a Puli did His encouragement

and How my heart swelled

when he wanted to steal my Sophie

Rest easy Les

Patty Anspach

~his was t ake n from the catalog of the 1s t Independent Specialty held in San Ra=ae_, a . , 12 SEP 1981. Ruth Boatright

LESLIE J . BENIS

Mr . Benis' parents were Puli breeders long before he was born in 1932. He was also raised with his uncle, Erno Kubinszky, DVM, a breeder of Boxers , German Shepherds and She lties. An exhibitor during his teenage years , Mr. Benis also bred boxers and German Shepherds . At the age of 22 he did the drawings and photographs for an All-Breed Dog Book written by Dr . Kubinszky . In 1976 his own breed book was published: "This is the Puli".

After WWII , Hungary was occupied by the Russians and the new regime was not responsive to dog owners and breeders. In 1956 as the official Hungarian Kennel Club photographer , Mr . Benis attended the first international dog show in West Germany. This chance to observe life in the West made him determined to leave Hungary . During Octobe r of that year he did so, eventually settling in California.

While owning Pulik bred in this country , Mr . Benis decided to import Hungarian Pulik with the help of Dr . Kubinszky, and Dr . Imre Bordacs , of Nagykunsagi Kennels. Since the early 60 's Les and his wife Klara have imported over 50 Pulik for themselves and others . During the ensuing years over 30 have become champions .

An FCI judge since 1967 of the Working and Sporting Groups, Mr . Benis has also been an AKC licensed judge for over ten years. Next year Mr. Benis is looking forward to the EUROPEAN GOLDEN CUP SHOW, dedicated to the American Breeders of the Hungarian breeds where he will have the opportunity to judge.

Mr. Benis feels ... "in the long run IT IS NOT MY PULI, IT IS NOT YOUR PULI , BUT THE PULI BREED , THAT IS IMPORTANT ."

Left to Right: Les, Klara Benis, Dee Rummel. Jerry Motter, Tom Motter, Frank Ritenour, Kristin Pohlmann & Lara Pohlmann

Left to right; Barbara Powell, Aaita Ritenour, Toni McLaughlin, Bill Pohlmann, Frank Ritenour, Les, Barbara Pohlmann, Kristin Pohlmann, Dee Rummel, Jerry Motter.


AUSTRALIA 1997 We were thrilled to have to opportunity to show our Puli to Les Benis back in 1997.

Many of us made the journey up to Sydney for this great event. Sashes were specially prepare for him to award to winners. We presented him with a special "Thank You" sash. Margaret Keil

MY PULi :EXPERIENCE DOWN UNDER ! By: Les Benis

It turned out to be my lucky day when I was late leaving the house one morning. I received a telephone call and found out that the AustTaliao Kennel Council was looking for a judge with an FCI all breed license. One of the judges who was scheduled to judge several shows, had to cancel. Time was running out and they were looking for somebody who can jump in, to take over the assignments.

It was a great honor to be invited and it was a great privilege to judge four shows in Australia and two shows in New Zealand. It turned out to be the trip of a life time. The Australian and New Zealand hospitality is second to none. The way the show giving clubs cater to their judges and entertain them, put most of the American all bTeed clubs to shame. My wife and I enjoyed every minute of the three weeks we spent there. I will be indebted forever to those who helped me to get this assignment on a sho.rt notice.

However! The greatest honor was bestowed upon me by the Puli people! They touched my heart forever. Five minutes after our arrival in Sydney I was told how Puli people rushed their entries in after they found out about the chaoge in judges. The club was besieged with telephone calls from Puli people. I was told that the entry for Pulis was an all time record. And they came from all over Australia. They will never koow how well they made me feel! The day I judged Pulis the Sydney Kennel Club announced it several times on their speaker system. Other judges stopped by the Pu1i ring to watch. They made me nervous.

The general impression of the Pulis as the classes were coming into the ring was excellent. I did not see any obvious major fiiults that one can run into once in a while. No roach backs, no sway backs. No cow hocked dogs. No oversiz.ed or undersized Pulis here. What made me personally satisfied is that I did not run into a single Puli that was too wide and heavy for its height., causing the rolling, laboring front movement that we see every so often in the USA r contribute this &ct first to the FCI Puli Standard which places emphasis on the percentage table. Second, to the breeders who pay attention to the standard. The third, but by no means least of the reasons, may be the excellent judges education system they have in Australia. Most of the judges I talked to can quote all important details of the Pu1i standard, or any other breeds' they are licensed for.

After the first glance the thought came to my mind: I will have my work, or decision making, cut out for me. Structurally satisfying dogs, most of them in excellent coat condition. If I wanted to be really picky a could say some of the Pulis could have lower hocks, but that would not hold them back from even going Best of Breed!

I have to preface the next paragraph with some of my childhood experiences. I grew up with a veterinarian., all breed judge in the fiimily. It was pumped into my head from a very young age that bad bite, missing teeth, lemon yellow eyes, ... etc are early signs of degenerative problems. If one does not correct it in the first generation, in upcoming generations it could only get worse! Most

Les wit h sotM of the Puli Exhibitors enjoying the Aft~r Show F111cti0n.


Le.s signing his book for the Puli e.:ichibitON.

Pulis sho~n & Judge Les Benis' placings.

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Pul i Exhibitors of Australia.

Junior Kennel Club All Breeds Championship Show, Sydney Ch Cordmaker Mississippi Mud was awarded Reserve in Show under Les.

My Puli Experience Down Under ! continued

veterinarians and genetic researchers believe that continued breeding of stock with multiple missing teeth for generations, eventually will lead to a point where the offspring of these dogs will not be able to chew a bone or normal food. As a result, of this upbringing, J can honestly say, with my hand on my heart, that in my many decades of Puli and/or dog breeding I never used a bitch for breeding with missing teeth or bad bite or used a stud with these problems. I have a hard time swallowing today's dog show 'fashion excuses" that one or two missing P-1 is forgivable. So you can imagine my shock when I started to examine dentition in these otherwise beautiful Pulis The bites were nice and even but the number of missing premolars on some of the Pulis, put me in a state of mind that I could not think straight for minutes. Interestingly some of them had their P- ls, but not much behind it. I quickly had to rc,-evaluate my standing on missing teeth. I ended up disregarding missing P-ls. Pulis with full dentition and Pulis with only P-ls missing were placed in order of their overall qualities. Pulis with more than two missing P-ls were penaliz.ed and placed in order of the severity of their number of missing teeth.

After the show, most of the Pull exluoitors came to the home of Kay and Ross Eldred where we were staying and treated us to a home made beautiful dinner that they prepared. In spite of my nagging jet lag and the two long days of judging we had a delightful evening tallcing Puli I will warmly remember that evening as long as I live. Naturally the question of missing teeth came up repeatedly during that night. It broke my heart to say that there is no easy solution to the problem The gene pool is relatively small, the di.stances are great. Importation is difficult. Although the quarantine is much shoner and easier than used to be. I understand using frozen sperm has backfired several times. If there is a way to ease the present problem it will require the friendly cooperation of all the Puli people in Australia and New Zealand. They will also have to find enthusiastic, helpful breeders abroad who are willing to cooperate and whom they can trust explicitly.

The Puli entries were much smaller in New Zealand and Tasmania. The quality was excellent in both of these places. The Puli breeders on these smaller island locations are even more isolated than the breeders around Australia's mainland.

Australian breeders should appreciate the FCI Puli Standard that gives them such detailed help in maintaining the quality of the Pulis in the long run. Countries where they strayed away from the FCJ standard, breeders have a much harder time staying focused on the complex combination of requirements. I would appreciate hearing occasionally from the breeders we met, about bow they are maintaining type, the excellent structural qualities and bow the missing teeth problem is being eliminated in Australia. I wish I could be more help than just a critiquing judge who is not completely familiar with all the problems they are facing.

My Puli experience down under was bean warming, educational and unforgettable. The enthusiasm of the Australian Puli breeders should serve as a model for all of us in the breed. I would like to thank every one who brought their Pulis to the shows, came to the dinner and received us with such enthusiasm. I do not think we will ever be able to fully return the enthusiastic welcome we received.

THE SYDNEY KENNEL CLUB INC. CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW 3 AUGUST 1997

Group S JUDGE: MR. L BENIS (Mako)

From Sue Huebner

In 1997 Les Benis judged in both Sydney and Hobart, Australia .

In Sydney he judged at two shows; The first , the Junior Kennel Club All Breeds Championship Show, where he judged Afghan Hounds, Whippets, Boxers, German Shepherd Dogs and Best in Show. The balance of the Working (Herding) Group was judged by Dr. J .. Reeves-Newson from Canada who, from an entry of 15 Pulis, chose Cordmaker Mississippi Mud as his BOB and Best in Group winner. This Puli went on to Reserve in Show under Les.

The following day was the Sydney Kennel Club Championship Show where Les judged the full Herding Group and Group Specials. From a total entry of 21 Pulis, he selected Cordmaker Mississippi Mud as his BOB with Cordmaker Kormos Cigany as Reserve BOB. His best bitch was from the Minor Puppy Class , Golliedog Black Magda and his Reserve Best Bitch was also a youngster, Rustafarion Astro Star ,from the Puppy Class. Cordmaker Missisippi Mud went on to win the Group.

Writing about his visit to Australia Les wrote:

"During my stay in Australia and New Zealand I had the opportunity to judge all groups, with the exception of the Toy Group. The quality of the dogs I had the pleasure to judge at six shows met and exceeded all my expectations. At the Junior Kennel Club Show in Sydney, I selected the Borzoi for Best in Show. The Borzoi is living proof that show excellence is composed of much more than just a lack of faults. He has style, elegance and spirit in abundance to put him on top. My Runner up for Best in Show was the Puli. I would venture to say that this excellent little floating beauty could successfully compete with any of today's show Pulis on any

continent".

Les awarding Puppy in Group to Cordmaker NYPD Blue

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Les judging in Tasmania


-- was wi th great sadness that I learned of the passing of Mr. Leslie J. Benis. He had a t love for the breed and his breeding program under the kennel name "Hunnia " has had ting influence on the Puli's of today. Many of us can find his dogs in the back of

::r pedigrees. When I think of Mr. Benis , this article and his question "Is the Puli rt Stepping or Far? " always come to mind . Ruth Boatright Breed Historian

IS THE PULI SHORT STEPPING OR FAR? By Leslie J . Benis

See ms to me it was only yesterday (1982 or 1983?) that I tried to correct the misconceptions about Puli movement that were published in more than one Puli club ' s newsletter . That was roughly fourteen years (Fourteen equals two times seven years . See the last paragraph of this ar t i cle about the significance of the last seven years!) If I recall it right , I expressed it in my article then , that as far as I was concerned , life is too short to try to right every wrong what is being circulated word of mouth or in print about the Puli . I understand that

he need today is greater than ever to clear the fog that surrounds the theories on the movement of the Puli . So here I am happily retired , asking Sancho to hand me my old sword again , so I can fight my Don Quixote (Man of La Mancha) style windmill fight one more time.

Fi rst let us try to analyze how the various views could have come about.

~e tailed descriptions of the breed can be found from the late 1800s . The first "standards" c ame into existence in the 1970s . The real details of the Puli standard hardly changed since then. Words in the standard, however , changed several times. Dog Show vocabulary or canine t erminology is constantly changing , being updated modernized just like most languages . One c an not and should not do a strictly dictionary translation of any standard and especially no t of a ninety year old text , with 199 0 ' s mentality! That could lead to major mi sunderstandings. We should not even do a dictionary translation of the 1900s standards. J ust one example : the dictionary translation of one of the early German Shepherd standards claims that the German Shepherd is short stepping! That would be hard to imagine with 1990 ' s knowledge and mentality .

The method o f exhibiting and judging of dogs differs much from country to country . In certain countries , to this day , they hardly move the dogs in the ring . If they move them at all , they move them at a slow walk . Therefore , the standard of these countries , in most cases , describes the movement of various breeds at a slow walk . In the USA we gait our dogs in the ring quite a bit and we move them at a very brisk walk , trot , or flying trot . When the Puli is doing his ancient duty of herding , he practically never walks . He might trot if he is not in a big hurry to get somewhere . More often , he will use suspension or flying trot . However , he will go after the runaway sheep by using gallop only. Just like humans , we take short strides when we stroll around on a Sunday afternoon . We take longer strides when we are crossing the street in heavy traffic and using even longer strides when we rush to the bank Friday night to beat the closing time. If the Puli is properly built , he has a choice of what kind of a stride to use . Walk , trot or fly trot! Let us be specific! It is confusing to say the least , when people freely interchange expressions that describe distinctly different gaits , like they were synonyms .

The most dangerous and damaging for the breed is when the misinterpretation of movement is premeditated and willful . Often some desperate exhibitors (or unsuccessful breeders) will try to justify the straight shoulder caused restricted front movement of their dog . They like to quote from the standard , usually completely out of context , that the Puli is not " far reaching"!

Straight shoulders are straight shoulders and they are a serious fault in any breed , regardless what kind of reach is required for that breed . I would like to call attention to the fact that not counting the purposeful dwarfed breeds such as Corgis , Bulldogs , Dachshunds , etc. , one of the shortest stepping basic dog is the Fox Terrier . In spite of their required short steps the ideal shoulder blade angulation for this marvelous little breed is approximately 45 degrees. Short steps or limited reach is the result , first , of the short upper arm and second , an almost straight pastern . The short upper arm is a functional requirement of the Fox Terrier for better and easier underground digging into a foxhole. That is what the breed was bred for! The Puli is not an underground digging breed , therefore breeders should not neglect the importance of the angle and length of the upper arm . Since the late nineteenth century , in the knowledgeable dog breeders ' vocabulary the front with


short upper arm is called "straight front or terrier front ." Unfortunately contemporary novice dog people use this terminology incorrectly but almost , extensively to describe straight shoulders .

Herding breeds in general are smoother movers that breeds of any other group . At a trot or a flying trot , they float around the ring without much up and down movement of their top line . This can not be achieved without well laid back (45 - 48 degree) shoulder blades . Straighter shoulders cause mincing , choppy movement (too much up and down bouncing of the entire body) . Any movement of any part of the dog ' s body that is not inline of travel is wasting energy big time! Herding breeds that should be able to be on their feet all day long can not afford to waste energy with mincing , choppy gait. Examining the American Kennel Club standards of herding breeds it is easy to see that they all require well laid back , obliquely set or

outright 45-degree shoulder layback the German Shepherd standard is the only one that : describes- "outreaching long strides" in walking and "even longer strides" of far reach" in trotting ...

In order to better understand "far reaching" gait , let us analyze the German Shepherd which is an exaggerated case , therefore , the easiest to understand (See Fig . 1) .

For an even easier visualization for the purposes of this article , we totally disregard the powerful push coming from an equally exaggerated rear movement that makes the front travel even farther at each step . As indicated above , the required shoulder-blade angulation is approximately 45 degree to the horizontal , the angle between the shoulder blade (or scapula) and the upper arm is approximately 90 degrees . The first major deviation from the average herding dog front assembly is the extra long upper arm which extends beyond the line of the imaginary rotating point of the shoulder blade . Therefore , the centerline of the lower leg bone assembly is beyond the vertical which represents the imaginary rotating point . To achieve this , nature created the second major difference , a pastern that slopes more than any other breed. Examine, what we have to this point; an exaggerated long upper arm , a short lower arm-well behind the shoulder ' s imaginary rotating point and a pastern sloping forward about 25 degrees. (Many of today ' s show German Shepherds display a faulty pastern of about 45 degrees)!

On the other hand , the terrier-front is an exaggeration towards the shortening of the reach of the front assembly (See Fig . 2) The shoulder blade, ideally , here again , is approximately 45 degrees and the angle between the shoulder blade and the upper arm is about 90 degrees. However , the upper arm is so short that the centerline of the lower arm falls in front of the theoretical rotating point of shoulder blade . In order to act as a better shock absorber, it would be ideal to have a slight slope of the pastern , but as it is , this type of front is not in static balance . The more the pastern would slope forward , the further the pads would fall in front of the imaginary rotating point of the shoulder blade , and the more out of balance the front would be .

Puli News - Februa,y 2008,

Assuming that during a trot in both of these fronts , the shoulder blades rotate about the same amount and the upper arm rotates forward about the same degree , it is easy to see how much further a German Shepherd type front would reach than a terrier type front . The Puli ' s front , like most other breed ' s fronts , falls somewhere in the middle of these two extremes . It is extremely important that in the ring the judge examine the Puli ' s front under the coat while on the tab l e . In case the Puli can not move out due to limited ring size , or due to an unusual surface (crushed gravel or rubber mat , for example) the judge should still have an idea whether the front assembly is correct or faulty :

From the above it should be easy is see that we do not want Pulis with exaggerated long upper arms , with too much pastern slope (far reach) , nor do we want steep shoulders , too short and/ or too steep upper arms (short steps , mincing gait) . Therefore , the answer to the title of this article is that Pulis are not "short stepping" and are not "far reaching" at a normal gaiting speed. Hopefully , all readers are convinced by now that steep shoulders are a very serious hindrance in movement and the introduction or perpetuating of this fault is sacrileges (if not an outright crime) in any herding or working breed!

The reach of the front legs is only one aspect of the movement of the Puli. In the above , we only analyzed the virtues and faults of the Puli ' s front that can best be evaluated from side view . Faults of the elbow and pastern area , the width of the Puli. That can influence front movement almost as much as straight shoulders can only be analyzed from frontal or plan view . The energy for the forward motion is coming from the hindquarters . The correct rear assembly with its associated angles is as important as the correct from assembly . Within the limits of this article we could not deal with those details .

I have to mention here that I would defy any dog show judge or dog fancier to accurately estimate or even measure relative bone angulation on a live dog . Plus or minus two or three degrees are unnoticeable and can not be measured in most cases . More extreme variations in angulation should be important to the breeder. Five , six degree variations are very much evident even to the inexperienced eye.

We have to realize that most dog books and articles , and this one is no exception , are over simplifications of the actual anatomical happenings . Shoulder blades are not attached to the ribcage with a bolt and nut connection . They are not rotating around a pin- pointable fixed mechanical axle . With the help of the muscle , cartilage and tendon connections , the shoulder blades also shift , slide , twist , in addition to the obvious motion . Those who have had an opportunity to study a dog moving in front of an X- ray machine , or have had the fortune to see Mrs . Rachel Page Elliot ' s movie/video where a dog is running on a treadmill in front of a fluoroscope have to realize that not even sophisticated anatomical textbooks describe completely the complexity of movement .

The age when we based the terminology and knowledge of dog movement entirely on the knowledge of horse people is rapidly coming to an end with the advancement of modern technology . For some reason this modern technology is advancing much slower in the field of dogs than on any other . Ultra High - Speed Still photography was used to analyze the movement of humans and horses since the beginning of this century . High Speed Cinematography is a more recent development Mrs. Rachel Page Elliot was the pioneer who started the use of this technique in analyzing and interpreting dog ' s movement . Ultra High Speed Cinematography is widely used in analyzing and projecting athlete ' s capabilities . However, to the best of my knowledge , to date no canine researcher had a chance to use one of these sophisticated , expensive cameras on dogs . I certainly hope happens sometime in the near future .

Statistics show that the average dog show exhibitor or dog club member is active in a breed for about seven years . Not counting , those very few who get hooked on dogs for a lifetime , dog clubs have an almost complete turnover in membership approximately every seven years. Naive breeding theories , insupportable ideas of canine anatomy, etc. propagated by some of the novice dog owners resurface in this same seven year time period accordingly. Therefore , I would like to recommend that this and/or similar articles on the subject of movement be published and re - published at least every seven years, for tile sake of the uninitiated .

Reprinted from the April , 2000 Puli News , with permission and credit given to TFH Publications which published Mr . Benis ' book , "This is the Puli" , copyright 1976.


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Information for Breeders Listings, litter Winamac, IN 46996 SPECIALTY ADVISORY announcements, new titles, supported entry wins and 574-946-4267 Patty Anspach back issue requests should be directed to PN Editor [email protected] 2367 E 100 N New subscriptions/renewals should be sent with a

check (in US funds) made out to "Puli News" to: HISTORIAN Winamac, IN 46996 Ruth Boatright 574-946-4267 Alex Davis

P.O. Box 706 85 West Troxell Rd. [email protected] Ashland, VA 23005 Oak Harbor, WA 98277 804-449-1527 360-675-9419 Melinda Peters, Assistant chair [email protected]

[email protected] 4770 Bovue Ave. PULi NEWS SERVICES FREE OF JUDGES EDUCATION Los Angeles, CA 90027-1103 CHARGE TO PCA MEMBERS: S. Eniko Szeremy 323-662-7952

Announcements of newly earned AKC titles 10305 N. Chatfield Pl. PetersLCSW@sbcglobal. (no photograph). Littleton, CO 80125

Announcements of recently earned group 303-791-6306 TROPHY COORDINATOR placements, obedience/herding or agility trail [email protected] Anita Ritenour placements in the "Special Stars" column;

1335 Via Del Carmel Best in Show or High in Trial winning Pulik Barbe Pessina

Santa Maria, CA 93455 belonging to PCA members.

632 Peekskill Hollow Rd. (805)934-4095 Winners of PCA Regional & National Specialties

Putnam Valley, NY 10579 [email protected] (not including futurity winners).

845-528-9350 [email protected] Top Ten Dogs in Conformation/Obedience/Agility,

WAYS AND MEANS Herding & Versatility statistics issue published once a year.

PULi NEWS/ Brian Brubaker MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR P.O. Box 291 Versatile Pulik published once a year. Alex Davis Carlisle, PA 17013

Pulik placing or winning Invitational Shows, P.O. Box 706 717-245-9514 Ashland, VA 23005 brubaker@global. t-bird. edu Obedience/Herding or Agility Trials which are

804-449-1527 owned by PCA members. [email protected]


THE PULi CLUB OF AMERICA'S GUIDELINES FOR OWNERS/BREEDERS/EXHIBITORS

The Puli Club of America, Inc. in accordance with the objectives of its Constitution, expects its members to use these guidelines in establishing a

standard of conduct for themselves as owners, breeders, sellers and exhibitors of Pulik.

A. A PULi OWNER WILL PROVIDE ALL DOGS WITHIN THEIR KEEPING WITH:

I. Appropriate food, water, health care and shelter.

2. Emotional requirements of attention, affection and appropriate training.

B. A PULi BREEDER WILL:

I. Be familiar with the Standard of our breed.

2. Be aware that the purpose of breeding is to maintain or improve the quality of the breed in accordance with the standard.

3. Use all available means such as knowledge of ancestors, OFA (Orthopedic Foundation/or Animals) and CERF (Canine Eye Registry), to

determine that breeding stock is free of inheritable disease.

4. Obtain radiologically normal OFA evaluation on all breeding stock before breeding.

5. Use only stock which is itself sound in body and temperament.

6. Breed only when in a position to properly care for the bitch and litter, recognizing that offspring might need housing for a considerable length of

time.

7. Not breed a bitch at her first season nor breed her more than 2 out of 3 consecutive heat p eriods, taking the health of the bitch into consideration

at all times.

8. Enter into all breeding arrangements with written contracts.

9. Keep accurate and thorough breeding records in full accordance with AKC requirements.

10. Prevent all breedings that are not carefully planned and provide adequate kenneling to prevent accidental or unplanned matings.

11. Insist that a visiting bitch be in the stud owner 's care and/or supervision before, through and until completion of estrus, so that accidental

mating to another stud not occur.

12. Not substitute one stud for another without the knowledge and agreement of all parties.

13. Pay careful attention to physical and emotional needs of puppies produced.

C. PERSON SELLING A PULi WILL:

1. Maintain a reasonable price within one's locale, which price should also be compatible with national prices.

2. Intelligently and honestly classify stock as show prospect, breeding prospect or pet.

3. Not sell stock with AKC papers if it may be a potential detriment to the breed.

4. Ascertain that the prospective owner has the knowledge, ability and facilities to properly care f or a Puli.

5. Give the buyer an honest appraisal of coat management, physical, mental and nutritional needs peculiar to the breed.

6. Provide a pedigree of at least 3 generations, typed or written legibly.

7. Supply records to the buyer regarding immunization, feeding and instructions for fature care.

8. Release only puppies which are in good health and guarantee the health of the puppy for a reasonable length of time.

9. Provide written contractual proof of sale and guarantees. If registration papers are not yet available, a bill of sale, giving names and

registration numbers of sire and dam and date of birth are required.

10. Avoid false and misleading advertising.

11. Not sell or provide stock to pet shops or commercial kennels.

12. Not donate dogs, puppies or adults, for contests, raffles, or fond raising events.

D. A PERSON SHOWING A PULi WILL:

1. Show and encourage the showing of high quality stock.

2. Exhibit only the most creditable ring deportment and accept the services of only those professional handlers whose behavior is exemplary.

3. Help the novice exhibitor and breeder. Use kind, constructive and honest criticism.

4. Display good sportsmanship and conduct themselves, whether at home, traveling, at shows, or in hotels, in such a manner as to reflect credit

upon the Puli Club of America, themselves and the Puli as a breed.

5. Exhibit dogs that are clean, in good physical condition and under in good physical condition and under control.


BREEDERS INFORMATION PAGE All obligations are those created by the buyer and seller; PCA has no obligations to either buyer or seller.

KEY: P=Breeder offers puppies for sale; S=Breeder has male Pulik at stud; A=Kennel visits by appointment only; I=Breeder offers free general information.

APPLEGATE PULIK 10/08 Fran Levinson & Ron Sullivan 3 Apple Row Kennett Square . PA 19348-2101 610-388-9496 [email protected] Al I

BOKAR PULIK 6/08 Carolyn Nusbickel 221 Hedgemere Drive Devon, Pa. 19333 610-687-1737 bokar l @comcast.net PIS/ A/I

BOWMAKER PULi KENNEL 10/08 Sherry Gibson 5198 Hillsboro Viola Road Manchester TN 37355 931-596-3224 [email protected] P/S/A/I

CEDAR RUN PULIK 6/08 Linore Cleveland 105 Hopi Way Kerrville, TX 78028 (830) 257.7814 [email protected] A/I

CHAZAR PULIK 6/08 Earl Gebhardt & Larry Hart 8639 Jay Court Arvada, CO 80003 (303) 420-9755 P/S/A/1

Eszter-Hazi Puli Kennel 10/08 Esther Slezsak 10 15 Wallum Lake Rd Pascoag, RI 02859 508-335-1589 [email protected] PIA/I

ERDOSI PULIK 4/08 Art Sorkin & S. Diane Smith 940 N. Barkley Mesa, AZ 85203 (480) 461-8440 [email protected]

KERESKEDO KENNEL 10/08 Joe Merchant 14000 Middleburg Plain City Rd. Plain City, OH 43064-9012 (P /D/S/ A/1) [email protected]

KITRIANA PULIK 02/09 Anne Kemp 2152 Rollingdale Rd. Lexington, KY 40513 (859) 223-2285 (PIA/I) [email protected]

LAMBAK PULIK 6/08 Sandra Schickedanz PO BOX 2806 Edmond, OK 73083-2806 (405) 359-0322 P/A/S/1 [email protected]

MOONSHADOW PULIK 4/08 Barbe Pessina 632 Peekskill Hollow Rd. Putnam Valley, NY 10579 (845) 528-9350 [email protected] P/D/S/A/1

PEBBLETREE PULIK Dee Rummel 6025 E. Milton Dr. Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (480) 513-1916 [email protected] (I) only

PIROSKA PULIK 2/08 Irma and Dagmar F ertl 30403 N. Holly Oaks Circle Magnolia, TX 77355-5704 (281) 356.3106 piroska l 313@ att.net P/ A/I

PRYDAIN PULi I 0/08 Barbara & Kathy Edwards, & Ruth Boatright 13947 Umpire Street Brighton, CO 80603 (720) 685-0131 [email protected] P/A/1

PULA-VISLA KENNELS 2/09 Penny Johnson 2427 County Rd. 1352 Vinemont, AL 35179 (256) 739-237 1 Pulav9@ aol.com /PIA/I

WEATHERBY KENNELS 2/08 Maggie Witwer 27397 WCR 58-1 /2 Greeley, CO 80631 (970) 352-4507 PIS/A/I mwitwer@frii .com

WYLDMOR PULIK 12/08 Patty Anspach 2367 E 100th N Winamac, IN 46996 (574) 946-4267 [email protected] P /S/ A/I

As of January I, 2004, Breeder Information listings are accepted by Puli Club of America members in good standing;

Breeders listed here will also be listed on PCA 's web site at http!/ www.Puliclub.org/pcabreeders.hrm. If your kennel has a web site, we can

provide a link. Just send a note to the Web Page committee at [email protected].

•!••······························································································ , , :: Advertising ::

PULi NEWS is published six times a year by

the Puli Club of America, Inc., and is the offi

cial newsletter of the club.

, , , , :: Full page $40 (includes one picture) Half page $20 (includes one:! , , •• picture) •• !: Quarter page $15 (includes one picture) Additional photos :: The view and opinions expressed herein do

not necessarily reflect or represent those of the

Puli Club of America, Inc. , its officers, board

members of the PULi NEWS staff. Permission

to reprint any portion of this publication

should be obtained from the editor.

. , •• $7.00 •• , , :: New Titles $10, PCA supported entry wins $5 per photo :: , . •• One page obituary-free of charge :• , , •• Ads can be sent camera ready or we can prepare them for you. •• , , •: All photos will be returned. Please send to •: • • :: Alex Davis P.O. Box 706, Ashland, VA 23005 :: , , •• Phone 804-449-1527 •• , , :: Email: [email protected] :: , , , , , . .. • .. •···········• .. • .. • .. •························· .. ·• .. •·········• .. •···• .. •·······• .. •·• .. •·····• .. •· .. ··:•

Puli News - Febntaty 2008,

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