01/Overview
The Pumi (pronounced "poomie") is a versatile and energetic purebred, renowned for its intelligence and playful demeanor. Originating in Hungary, this active and alluring breed is a herding dog at heart, showcasing a remarkable ability to control livestock with precision and agility. With its unique appearance, characterized by a curly coat and expressive, alert facial features, the Pumi has the ability to captivate the hearts of working dog enthusiasts and pet owners alike. Its medium-sized frame is complemented by a spirited personality, making the Pumi an excellent companion for active individuals and families.
Highlights
02/History
The Pumi originated in Hungary where it was primarily used for herding cattle and sheep. The breed is believed to have descended from ancient herding dogs brought to Hungary by migrating peoples, and later crossed with French and German herding breeds. The Pumi has been an integral part of Hungarian agricultural communities for centuries, valued for its excellent herding abilities, its incredible agility, and its extraordinary intelligence.
The breed has played a significant role in the lives of local farmers, helping to drive and manage a variety of livestock throughout the year. The Pumi's keen intelligence, energetic disposition, and alert nature made for a reliable working companion. It was the dogs' ability to herd and guard livestock, as well as keep vermin at bay, that made them so indispensable.
The Pumi was first recognized in Hungary in the early 20th century, and a Breed Standard was established to solidify the breed's status as a distinct purebred. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Pumi in 2016, placing it in its Herding Group. Additionally, the breed is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and The Royal Kennel Club (UK), further establishing support internationally.
The breed's popularity has grown steadily, particularly in Europe and North America where it has found success not only as a herding dog but also in various dog sports and as a beloved companion. Its playful and affectionate nature, combined with its intelligence and exceptional work ethic, make it a popular choice for farming families and individuals alike.
Today, the Pumi continues to captivate hearts with its charming personality, distinctive appearance, and versatile capabilities. While it remains a somewhat rare breed, its unique characteristics and suitability for various canine activities have allowed it hold a special position in the world of purebred dogs. The Pumi stands as a testament to the enduring bond between humans and dogs, showcasing the incredible versatility and companionship that our canine friends always provide.
03/Appearance
The adult male Pumi typically stands at a height ranging from 16 to 18.5 inches at the shoulder, with the adult female being slightly shorter, standing at 15 to 17.5 inches.
In terms of weight, a healthy male Pumi generally weighs between 27 and 29 pounds; a female typically weighs in the range of 22 to 24 pounds.
Pumik, the plural form of Pumi, exhibit a well-proportioned body, with a square build that reflects its strength and agility. The ratio of height at the withers to length of the body is 1:1, giving the breed a compact and robust appearance. This herding dog possesses substantial bone for its size, providing it with stability and endurance. The Pumi's substance is balanced, appearing neither too light nor too heavy and allowing for optimal performance in various canine activities and work-related functions. These attributes are crucial for a breed with a heritage deeply rooted in managing and moving livestock.
Texture: The unique double coat of the Pumi consists of a harsh outer coat and a softer undercoat. A combination of wavy and curly hairs form corkscrew curls that stand out from the body at a length of 1.5 to 3 inches. The hair around the eyes and on the face is shorter, but the hair on the underside of the tail can reach a greater length. The coat should be allowed to dry naturally, and should never be fluffed-up or blown dry.
Standard Colors
04/Consider
Owning a Pumi requires commitment as these dogs are very intelligent and need to be engaged in some form of work. Pumik flourish when given tasks to perform and require a considerable amount of exercise to satisfy their high energy levels. They form strong bonds with their families, making them exceptional companions; however, they do best in environments where they are included in daily activities.
Given their herding background, Pumik have a strong instinct to control and manage their environment, which necessitates consistent training and early socialization to foster well-behaved and balanced behavior. They can be wary of strangers, a trait that showcases their inherently protective nature and makes them excellent watchdogs. It’s important for potential caretakers of this breed to provide proper socialization from a young age to make sure the dogs develop well-rounded behavior around unfamiliar people and other animals.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
Lifespan: Pumik are generally regarded as a healthy breed, having a lifespan that typically ranges from 12 to 13 years. Despite the breed's robustness, the Pumi can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Prospective Pumi owners should prioritize finding a reputable breeder who conducts comprehensive health clearances to verify the wellbeing of their breeding stock.
The Pumi is known for its lively and energetic personality, making it a delight to have around. However, these dogs do require a specific kind of handling due to their unique personality traits. They tend to form strong bonds with their families, and while they are not the most novice-friendly breed, with the right training and socialization they can adapt well to various households. Their sensitivity level is moderately high, meaning they respond well to positive reinforcement and can be quite perceptive to the emotions of their human companions.
When it comes to being alone, Pumik can manage brief periods of solitude, but they prefer to be engaged in activities or to be in the company of their family members. They have a moderate tolerance for being left alone, and thrive best when they're included in family activities.
Pumik generally get along well with other dogs, especially when they're properly socialized from a young age. They can be a bit reserved or cautious around strangers, but they are not typically aggressive. However, proper introductions and positive experiences with new people can help to ease their wariness.
When it comes to young children, Pumik can be good companions, but interactions should always be supervised, especially if the children are not familiar with how to interact with dogs appropriately. Pumik are playful and enjoy engaging in games, but they also have a herding instinct. So, they may attempt to herd the children!
Exercise Expectations
The Pumi's energy levels are high, and these dogs require ample exercise to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues. A combination of physical activity and mental stimulation is ideal for this breed. Activities such as running, playing fetch, and agility training can help to burn off any excess energy and keep the Pumi in good shape. The intensity of the Pumi's exercise regimen should be moderate-to-high, reflecting the breed's energetic nature. These dogs enjoy being challenged and engaged, making activities that require them to think and move simultaneously particularly beneficial. Despite their small size, they have a lot of stamina and can participate easily in long play sessions. Pumik also exhibit a playful demeanor, and they enjoy interactive games with their human companions. They can be quite playful, so providing them with a variety of toys and games can help to keep them entertained.
The Pumi can adapt to a variety of living situations, but there are several factors that potential caretakers should consider for providing a harmonious living environment. Since these energetic dogs are well-suited to active households, they like to be part of daily activities.
In terms of apartment living, Pumik can adapt well as long as their exercise needs are met. They are relatively small dogs, but their high energy levels mean they require plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. Providing them with enough exercise and activities to keep them engaged is crucial, regardless of the size of the living space.
Pumik have a decent tolerance of cold weather, thanks to their thick, curly coat. However, like all dogs, they should not be left outside in extreme weather conditions for extended periods. Providing them with appropriate shelter and warmth during colder months is essential.
On the other hand, Pumik have a moderate tolerance of hot weather. Caretakers should make sure the dogs have access to shade and fresh water during warmer weather and intense physical activity should be avoided.
05/Puppies
The arrival of Pumi puppies is a delightful experience, one that is filled with joy and excitement. These lively and intelligent pups are always eager to learn and will bond closely with their human companions. From the moment they are born, they exhibit their breed's curious and playful nature, eager to explore their surroundings and interact with their mother and siblings.
Caring for a Pumi puppy requires attention to the pup's physical and developmental needs. Providing proper nutrition is paramount, as the little one will grow rapidly and require a balanced diet to support its development. It is crucial to provide a puppy-specific food early on that caters to the pup's unique nutritional requirements.
Socialization plays a vital role in the development of a Pumi puppy too. Exposing the pup to various people, environments, and other animals helps to shape its behavior and temperament, helping to become well-rounded and adaptable as an adult. Positive interactions and the use of treats and praise can help to reinforce good behavior.
The Pumi puppy has bundles of energy and needs ample playtime and exercise to release it. However, it is important to remember that the pup's bones and joints are still developing, so activities should be age-appropriate and not too strenuous. Interactive games and short, supervised play sessions are excellent ways to burn off energy while preventing injury.
Potty training and basic obedience training should start early. Pumik are intelligent and quick learners, but they also have an independent streak. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key in shaping a puppy's behavior and making sure it grows up to become a well-behaved companion.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial during this developmental stage. They will ensure the puppy is growing correctly and they allow opportunities to address any potential health issues early on.
06/Activities
The Pumi is a highly energetic and intelligent dog that excels in various activities. The breed's agility, stamina, and eagerness to learn can make these dogs fantastic candidates for competitive events, as well as enjoyable companions for active families. Below is a list of dog sports that are well-suited for this breed:
Engaging a Pumi in these and other activities provides not only physical exercise but also mental stimulation, helping a Pumi to release energy and find contentment. The versatility and enthusiasm of the breed make it a joy to work with in a wide variety of canine sports and doggy activities.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Pumi is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Pumi is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
Origin
The Pumi (pronounced "poo-mee") originated in Hungary, where it was primarily used for herding cattle and sheep. Its agile and energetic nature made it exceptionally good at navigating the hilly terrain of its homeland.
Breed Recognition
The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Pumi in 2016, categorizing it in the Herding Group.
Intelligence
Pumik are highly intelligent and quick learners, making these dogs excellent candidates for all kinds of training and dog sports. However, their intelligence also means they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and the poor behavior that usually results.
Vocal Nature
The Pumi is known to be a vocal breed, often using its voice to communicate with its handlers. This trait made these dogs excellent herders, as they easily alert their shepherds to any issues with the livestock.
Affectionate Companions
Despite the breed's working background, Pumik are very affectionate and enjoy spending time with their human families. They form strong bonds with their owners and can be quite loyal to each family member
11/FAQ
The Pumi has a curly and dense coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its texture and prevent matting. While these dogs do shed, the amount of loose hair is considerably less than that many other breeds, thanks to the breed's unique coat characteristics. Shed hairs tend to get caught in the curly coat, necessitating regular brushing to remove them.
Official Standard of the Pumi
General Appearance: The Pumi is a medium-sized alert, intelligent, energetic, and agile Hungarian herding breed, originating in the seventeenth or eighteenth centuries from the ancestral Puli, and used to herd cattle, sheep, and swine. He is characterized by his square outline, curly coat, circular tail, and long head with semi-erect ears, and whimsical expression. The Pumi originated in Hungary where pastures were small and the livestock were driven to local fields for grazing. He is a versatile stock dog, equally adept at gathering, driving and keeping the stock within boundaries as directed by the shepherd, working very close to the livestock, and using his voice and quick movement to keep the stock under control. Size, Proportion, Substance - The Pumi is square, with the height at the withers equal to the distance from prosternum to buttocks. The bone is medium and the body is dry, lithe and muscular, with an off-standing, curly coat. Size - Dogs are from 16 to 18½ inches, bitches from 15 to 17½ inches. Disqualification - Height ½ inch above or below the desired range. Weight -Ideal weight in dogs is 27 to 29 pounds and in bitches 22 to 24 pounds.
Head: Long, with the muzzle 40 to 50 percent of the length of the head. The planes are parallel with a slight stop. Expression is lively and intelligent. Eyes are medium sized, dark brown, deep set, and oval, set moderately wide apart and slightly oblique. The pigment is dark and complete with tightly-fitting eye rims. Ears are set on high, of medium size, and carried two-thirds erect with the tips pointing somewhat towards the sides. The ears are covered with hair, enhancing their whimsical expression. The ears are mobile and alert, moving quickly in reaction to any stimulation. Disqualifications - Ears prick or hanging. Skull is long, moderate in width, with a very slight rounding at the sides and back, but flat when viewed from the side. The occiput is not apparent. Muzzle is strong, tapering to a blunt end at the nose, which is always black in all coat colors. Lips are tight and darkly pigmented, as are the gums. Jaws are strong, with a full complement of well-developed, white teeth that form a scissors bite.
Neck, Topline and Body: Neck is of medium length, slightly arched, and well-muscled. The skin at the throat is tight, dry, and without dewlap. Withers pronounced and forming the highest point of the body. Body - The body is smooth and tight with hard, but not bulging muscles, and particularly lean. The back is short, straight, and taut. The loin is short, straight, and firmly coupled. The croup is not too long, slightly sloped, and of medium breadth. The chest is deep, fairly narrow, and extends well back to a moderate tuck-up. The ribs are slightly sprung with a deep brisket reaching to the elbows. The forechest is not pronounced. The depth of the chest is slightly less than 50 percent of the height at the withers. Tail - set high, it arches over the back forming a full circle from base to tip, sitting just on top of the topline. In repose it may hang down. Docking is not permitted nor is a naturally short tail (stump).
Forequarters: Shoulders - The shoulders are moderately angulated, with long, well-knit shoulder blades and an upper arm matching in length. The angle formed between the shoulder blade and upper arm should be 100 to 110 degrees. The elbows are tucked firmly against the brisket. The legs are long and straight, with medium bone. The pastern is very slightly sloped. The feet are tight, and round with well-knit toes - a cat foot, with well-cushioned pads. The nails are strong and preferably black or nearly black.
Hindquarters: The hindquarters are well-developed and muscular, and in balance with the forequarters having moderate angulation. The upper thigh is thick and strong, with a long, strong second thigh. The hocks are short, vertical, and parallel to each other. A vertical line can be drawn from the ischium down to the ground just in front of the rear toes when viewed from the side. Rear dewclaws, if any, may be removed. Hind feet same as the forefeet.
Coat: The coat is a combination of wavy and curly hair, forming corkscrews or curls all over the body, and is never smooth or corded. The coat consists of an even mixture of harsh hair and softer undercoat. The coat stands out from the body approximately 1½ to 3 inches and is prepared using a combination of stripping and trimming. The eyes and the foreface are free of long hair. The hair on the underside of the tail ranges from ½ inch at its shortest to 3 to 5 inches and has little undercoat. In order to achieve the characteristic corkscrews and curls in the coat, the hair is allowed to dry naturally. The coat must never appear fluffed and blown dry, obscuring the characteristic curls.
Color: Black, white, or any shades of gray. Shades of fawn from pale cream to red, with some black or gray shading desirable. The grays are born black and fade to various shades of gray. In any of the colors, an intermixture of some gray, black or white hairs is acceptable as long as the overall appearance of a solid color is maintained. A white mark on the chest less than 1 inch at the longest dimension is permissible, as are white toe tips. Skin pigmentation is dark, with the coat colors intense and solid, although there may be lighter or darker shadings on head and legs. Disqualification - Any multiple-color pattern or patches, e.g., black and tan pattern, piebald, parti-colored.
Gait: The gait is light and spirited, energetic and efficient, with moderate reach and drive, enabling them to change direction instantly. Head and tail are carried up. From the front and rear, the legs travel in a straight line in the same planes, and tend to converge toward a median line of travel as speed increases.
Temperament: Lively, alert, intelligent, bold, and ready for duty, yet reserved with strangers, the Pumi assesses each new situation.
Faults: Any deviation from the foregoing should be considered a fault, the seriousness of the fault depending upon the extent of the deviation. Additional emphasis should be given to those characteristics that distinguish the Pumi from the Puli: head, ears, tail, and coat.
Disqualifications: Height ½ inch above or below the desired range. Ears prick or hanging. Any multiple-color pattern or patches, e.g., black and tan pattern, piebald, parti-colored.
Effective January 1, 2011
The muzzle, dark eye, black pigment and nose, and high-set, semi-erect ears covered with curly hair all contribute to the Pumi expression.
Pumi colors: Black, Gray, Silver Gray, White, Born Gray, Born Brown. Pumi markings: Brindle Marking, Black & Tan Markings. Learn more.
All About Judging
Explore judging insights on the Pumi, highlighting breed standards, judge education, and priorities for better evaluations.
All About Judging
Explore the Pumi, a Hungarian herding breed known for its unique coat, lively movement, and strong bond with its owner.
Pumik are whimsical, loyal, and hardworking, but their spirited, terrier-like personality requires dedicated attention and exercise.
Agility
Life with three Pumis is a whirlwind of energy, loyalty, and joy, from morning chaos to evening cuddles – never a dull moment!
Herding Tests & Trials
Discover the world of herding with Pumik: a unique journey into farming with Hungarian herding dogs. Explore their role on the farm and more!
Grooming
Key breed characteric of the Pumi is a coat with curly locks of hair. A blown dry coat can’t have the characteristic curls and locks of hair.
The tail of a Pumi is set high and carried over the back, creating a lively and spirited look. The tail forms a loop, with the tip touching the dog's back and showcasing the breed’s alert and ready-to-act nature.
The tail is covered with curly hair, mirroring the texture of the coat on the rest of the body. This consistency of texture adds to the breed’s harmonious and well-balanced appearance. The hair on the tail, however, is slightly longer than that of the body, adding a touch of elegance and flair to the breed’s silhouette.
Pumik are not known to have bobtails; instead, they retain their tail’s full length, allowing for a natural beauty and a distinctive silhouette. The undocked tail speaks to the breed’s herding heritage, as a full tail aids in balance and agility while herding livestock over various terrain.
Standard Markings
A Note About Color: The Pumi is a solid-colored dog. Puppies are born black, but a “graying” gene causes the coat to lighten as it grows; however, an overall solid appearance should be seen on the adult dog.
Coat Type
Curly, Wavy
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Medium
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Providing proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining the health and vitality of Pumik. These energetic dogs require a balanced diet to support their active lifestyle. When it comes to feeding a Pumi puppy, it’s essential to choose a high-quality puppy food that supports their growth and development. Generally, a Pumi puppy should be fed three to four times a day.
As they mature into adults, the frequency of their meals can be reduced to twice a day. The amount of food a Pumi requires can vary based on their age, size, and activity level. On average, an adult Pumi may require between 1 to 1.5 cups of dry dog food per day. However, it's vital to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes and to make sure that their nutritional needs are being met.
Pumik have a moderate tendency to gain weight, so it's crucial to monitor their calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learning which human foods are safe for Pumik, as well as those that are not, is important. If you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet, it is advisable to check with your vet.
Fresh, clean water should be available at all times for your dog, helping it stay hydrated throughout the day. Regularly monitoring their diet, providing portion control, and making sure that they have access to clean water will contribute significantly to their overall well-being.
The Pumi is an intelligent and quick learner, which makes these dogs relatively easy to train. However, they do have a strong-willed and independent streak, meaning consistent and firm training is required. Using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and play can yield excellent results. Due to their intelligence, they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which could lead to unwanted behavior.
While Pumik are not known for excessive barking, they will alert their owners to the presence of strangers or unusual situations. Early socialization and training can help to manage this tendency to bark. Furthermore, these dogs have a moderate degree of wanderlust. They can have the urge to explore if an interesting scent catches their attention, so secure fencing and obedience training are crucial.
The Pumi has a prey drive and may show a tendency to chase after small animals. Training can help to manage this behavior, and it is advisable to keep these dogs on a leash during walks in unsecured areas. They respond well to training that involves games and fun activities, which makes training sessions enjoyable for both the dog and the handler.
Grooming Expectations
Pumik do not shed excessively, but their curly hair can become tangled and matted if not properly cared for. Brushing the coat a few times a week can help to prevent mats and tangles, and it also helps to distribute natural oils throughout their coat, keeping it healthy and shiny. In addition to brushing, regular baths are needed to keep the coat in tip-top shape. The Pumi's grooming sessions also provide an excellent opportunity to check for any signs of skin issues and parasites. Paying attention to the Pumi's ears, eyes, and teeth during grooming sessions is crucial, as these areas can be prone to infection if not properly maintained.
