The mysterious hairless dog of Hungary: the Májzli

Did you know that Hungarians also have hairless dogs? This unofficially recognized breed is very rare, but all the more striking. What is there to know?

Many people when they see a Májzli, think they are looking at a Mudi that has seen better days. But this is far from the case. These dogs look like this even in their prime. Sometimes, in rare cases, even animal rights activists think they’re looking at a poodle or a mastiff with a skin condition. Who is this mystery dog really?

Unofficial breed

The Májzli has not been properly bred, which means that they are still only a working type dog. The 2011 KÁTKI (Small Animal Breeding and Feeding Research Institute) technical conference stated that “We still have valuable breeds and working types that are not yet FCI classified but will soon be classified as National Treasures, and their protection should be a priority! Here, too, the classification of the working breed as livestock and the corresponding legal classification, ex-situ genetic and in-situ protection in economic ports and functions is justified (Carpathian “kaliba”-dog; Carpathian poultry guard dog; Carpathian komondor; Sinka dog; Hungarian herding dog; anwart vizsla; ancient Hungarian rabbit dog; Májzli dog).”

Unfortunately, this idea has not materialised since then. According to the summary, less than a hundred individuals have survived. Some claim that they are even less numerous, with only 15-30 individuals in the country. Of course, this is difficult to say, as it is not easy to keep track of the number of herding dogs on farms.

Their names

They are most often found in Swabian settlements, which is why they are also called German or Swabian Puli dogs. Another name for them is the Hungarian bald dog. Mudi is also called a German poodle. In fact, some people believe that the Májzli is a genetically defective version of the Mudi, which is why they have this coat. Hence the similar name. However, there has always been some confusion about the names of Hungarian dog breeds. This is due to the fact that, when they were first created, shepherds did not think in terms of sounding names, but in terms of breeding for the best possible functions.

The Pumi for example, was considered the Transdanubian variation of the Puli, while the Mudi was a popular herding dog in the Southern Great Plain. This was the case until 1914, when with the help of Emil Raitsits, the selective breeding started, which unfortunately did not include the hungarian hairless dog.

In the video below you can see a German Puli, aka a Májzli:

Why are there so few of them left?

The heyday of shepherds and sheepdogs is coming to an end, as there are much fewer of them are needed in the modern world. Some dogs could fit in well with families’ everyday lives with their charming looks and temperament. But let’s face it, many people would not consider the Májzli as the jewel of their garden. Sadly, today it is often the appearance that counts. Their situation is not helped by the fact that the FCI does not officially recognise these dogs as a breed, and therefore selective breeding has not become popular.

The rugged exterior makes the perfect working dog

As a working dog, they are as good as any Mudi or Puli. In our country, most of the Májzli are in the hands of shepherds. They consider them the best herding dogs and treasure them. Sometimes you may come across an example in the shelters. They are energetic, agile, intelligent and affectionate, just like our other herding dogs, making them ideal as a family pet when there is nothing to herd.

The appearance of the Májzli may put some people off the breed. But their nature is sure to sweep anyone off their feet. If Chinese naked dogs are so popular, why not go for our native bald dog? This valuable and talented herding dog should not be allowed to disappear forever.