From 1 July 2025, a rare dog known as the Hungarian Mudi will be officially recognised as the UK’s 225th pedigree breed.
Originally from Hungary, the Mudi is a highly intelligent, agile and hardworking herding breed.
Although it wasn’t formally identified until 1936, historical accounts suggest dogs similar to the Mudi were working with livestock for hundreds of years, perhaps as far back as the 18th century.
With its curly or wavy coat – which comes in a variety of colours – and a fiercely loyal nature, this unique dog has earned a devoted following.
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According to The Kennel Club – the UK’s registry body for pedigree dogs – the Mudi will be added to the Imported Breed Register. The Kennel Club will then work with breed experts to produce a breed standard — a detailed description of the dog's appearance and temperament – before eventually moving the Mudi to the main breed register.
The breed’s new official status brings it one step closer to full registration, meaning Mudis could eventually compete for top honours at Crufts, the world-famous dog show held every March.
"We're pleased to officially recognise this versatile Hungarian herding dog as a pedigree breed in the UK," says Charlotte McNamara, spokesperson for The Kennel Club.
"Becoming a recognised pedigree breed with The Kennel Club takes time and several generations of dogs, but once a breed is officially recognised, it means we can be confident in its lineage and that it offers predictable traits – like temperament, health, exercise and grooming needs – which helps match dogs with the right home and owner."
This marks the fifth new breed to be officially recognised in the UK in just five years. Other recent additions include the Icelandic sheepdog, Polish hunting dog, smooth faced Pyrenean sheepdog and the barbet.
Dorit Powell, from The Hungarian Mudi Club, says "The Mudi is razor-sharp, thinks independently and is an affectionate, fiercely loyal family member.
"They are suitable for most types of living, as long as they are provided with a job or similar mental and physical stimulation, and their human companions can accept their breed-characteristic vocal and herding behaviour."
For more information on recognised pedigree breeds, visit The Kennel Club's website.
Main image: Hungarian Mudi. Credit: Balázs Horváth
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