The Pumi is a small to medium-sized herding dog originating from Hungary. With their lively, energetic nature and instinct to herd, Pumis make wonderful family pets and working dogs. Here’s an in-depth look at this bright and devoted breed.
Overview of the Pumi
- Origin: Hungary
- Size: Medium. 17-19 inches tall; 22-29 pounds.
- Coat: Corded or curly coat in various colors like black, white, gray, or fawn.
- Temperament: Cheerful, obedient, active, protective, and affectionate.
- Lifespan: 12-14 years.
The Pumi is a herding breed that likely descends from the Puli and French Barbet. They were originally bred to herd sheep and cattle, thanks to their energetic and driven personalities.
While the FCI recognizes the Pumi as a distinct breed, organizations like the AKC classify them as part of the Herding Group.
History of the Pumi
The Pumi originated in Hungary and was historically used to herd cattle, sheep, swine, and poultry.
They likely descended from the Hungarian Puli and French Barbet in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Puli contributed the corded coat while the Barbet passed down the fawn and gray coat colors.
By the 19th century, the Pumi had developed into a distinct herding breed. Their lively nature made them ideal for handling lively livestock.
The first breed standard was written for the Pumi in 1923 when they began to gain popularity as family companions. However, their numbers dwindled during World War II.
In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the breed by collecting remaining purebred dogs for a breeding program. The population has grown since then.
Today, the Pumi is recognized by major kennel clubs but is still considered a rare breed, even in its homeland of Hungary.
Appearance of the Pumi
The Pumi is a medium-sized dog with a square proportioned, muscular body covered in a corded or curly coat.
Some key physical traits include:
- Size – 17 to 19 inches tall; 22 to 29 pounds. Males slightly larger than females.
- Coat – Two coat varieties:
- Corded – Tight, rope-like cords.
- Curly – Dense and wooly.
- Color – Various colors and combinations including fawn, black, gray, and white. Merle pattern common.
- Tail – Set high, tightly curled over the back.
- Head – Domed skull, slightly rounded muzzle, almond-shaped eyes. Ears hang close to the head.
Their lively expression and curly coat gives them a cheerful, animated look befitting their energetic spirit.
Temperament of the Pumi
The Pumi is an upbeat, exuberant breed. They’re known for their energy, intelligence, protectiveness, and affectionate nature.
Some distinctive traits of the Pumi temperament include:
- Lively – Very active and energetic. Needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Intelligent – Quick to learn and pick up on commands. Does well in obedience training and dog sports.
- Protective – Wary of strangers, so early socialization is a must. Will alert bark and guard home and family.
- Obedient – Eager to please. Responds well to firm, consistent training.
- Friendly – Loves children and devoted to family. Tends to bond closely with one person.
- Prey drive – Their herding background means a strong instinct to chase small animals. Needs supervision.
When properly socialized and handled, the good-natured Pumi makes a loyal companion and alert watchdog for an active family.
Taking Care of a Pumi
Despite their small size, Pumis are high energy dogs with involved grooming needs. Be prepared to provide plenty of exercise, training, and coat care.
Exercise
Pumis need 45-60 minutes of vigorous activity per day. Long walks, running beside a bike, hiking, playtime in a fenced yard, or dog sports are great outlets for their energy. Without enough activity they may become frustrated and destructive.
Grooming
Weekly brushing is essential for the corded coat. Cords must be separated by hand to avoid matting.
The curly coat needs brushing 2-3 times per week plus regular trimming. Bathe only when necessary.
Other routine care like nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning is required.
Training
This is an intelligent breed that responds best to positive reinforcement techniques. Early socialization and obedience training is strongly recommended.
Pumis can be quick to bark, wary of strangers, and prone to chasing, so teaching good manners is a must. Their herding heritage means they may try to “herd” children or other pets.
Feeding
1-1.5 cups of high quality dry food divided into two meals suits the Pumi. Avoid overfeeding as they’re prone to obesity.
Health
The Pumi is generally healthy, enjoying an average lifespan of 12-14 years, but some common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy
- Allergies
Responsible breeders screen for these and other hereditary issues.
Are Pumis Good Family Dogs?
Yes, when properly trained and exercised, Pumis make excellent family companions. They form close bonds and get along well with kids and other pets when socialized early on.
However, their energetic nature and tendency to herd or nip at ankles means they are better suited for active families with older children. Supervision around toddlers is advised. First time owners may find them a challenge.
If you want a lively, personable little watchdog, the Pumi can be a great choice. But be prepared to give them the structured training, activity, and coat care they require.
Interesting Facts About the Pumi
Here are some fun facts about this unique Hungarian breed:
- The tight cords of their coat resemble dreadlocks and need to be separated by hand to avoid matting.
- Pumis come in a variety of colors and patterns like fawn, gray, black, and merle. No two look exactly the same.
- They’re sometimes described as a “big dog in a small dog’s body” due to their energetic, driven personalities.
- Pumis have a long history as exceptional herding dogs and still compete in herding trials today.
- Queen Elizabeth II keeps Pumis among the corgis and dorgis at Buckingham Palace.
- The Pumi is the national dog of Hungary but is still quite rare, even in its homeland. There are less than 4,000 worldwide.
Similar Breeds
Some breeds comparable to the Pumi:
- Puli – Closely related Hungarian herding breed. Distinctive corded coat.
- Mudi – Another Hungarian herding breed. More reserved than the active Pumi.
- Schipperke – Small Belgian breed with similar black coat and protective nature.
- Kerry Blue Terrier – Active terrier with a curly “puppy cuts” coat requiring trimming.
- Spanish Water Dog – Athletic herders also covered in cords or a curly fleece coat.
- Barbet – France’s ancient water dog bears similarities to the Pumi.
Is the Pumi the Right Breed For You?
The upbeat, plucky Pumi makes a delightful pet for active owners who can provide proper training, exercise, and grooming. Consider if you can meet the needs of this energetic breed before bringing one home.
Key things to consider:
- Are you an active family able to give them 45-60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise?
- Are you prepared to brush their coat thoroughly at least 2-3 times per week?
- Can you provide early socialization and training to curb any wayward herding behaviors?
- Do you have a securely fenced yard? Pumis will roam if able.
- Can you deal with their tendency to bark at strangers and chase small critters?
- Are you equipped to handle their intelligence and high energy? Bored Pumis get destructive.
If you’re up for the unique challenges of this lively Hungarian breed, the devoted Pumi can make a fun-loving, protective companion like no other. Reach out to breed-specific rescues or reputable breeders to learn more about bringing one of these special dogs home.