Pumi Breed information & Pictures

Pumi Breed Description

Life Expectancy
12-13 years

Learning Rate
Very high

Litter Size
4 to 7

Size
Medium

Weight
Dogs: 18-33 pounds
Bitches: 16-30 pounds

Height
Dogs: 13-19 inches
Bitches: 12-17 inches

Country of Origin
Hungary, 1700

Groups
AKC Herding Dogs
FCI Group I.: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs)
TKC Pastoral

Other Names
Hungarian Pumi

The Pumi is a medium-sized, sturdy sheepdog. It is active and energetic. This dog is a typical drover, with a burning personality and an alert disposition. As a working dog it serves many functions, such as herding cattle, exterminating vermin, and guarding the farm.

It was developed to drive cattle; it is daring, mouthy and high-spirited. Its character makes this breed a fine watchdog in remote areas. It also makes a successful guard dog and hunting dog.

Temperament

The Pumi is a vigorous and sturdy dog. Due to its terrier heritage it has a great interest in the lairs of wild animals such as foxes and hares. It is said to be a successful ratter. It is happy, affectionate, cheerful, loving dog; it makes a wonderful family companion. It is alert, watchful, and energetic.

Socialization at an early age is a must. Obedience training is important; it tends to be willful. This is a very intelligent breed; it is smart enough to grasp what you mean quickly. It is easy to train. Usually it gets along with children as long as they do not pester the dog. This breed can be dog aggressive and has a tendency to wander.

Pumi dogs are superb watchdogs; they are rather mistrustful of strangers. The Pumi uses its voice liberally and consistently; if you are surrounded by neighbors where you live it is sensible to teach the dog that after a couple of barks it must be quiet. The Pumi needs a lot if exercise. It will enjoy playing catch, chasing Frisbees, and will excel in agility skills classes.

Colors

Black, all shades of gray, and reddish brown, but always one solid color. White occurs, but is not favored by breeders.

Coat

Medium-length, thick, long, curling. The hair is not felty and does not form into cords like the Puli’s coat. It is easy to groom. It does not mat easily. An occasional combing and brushing will keep it looking nice. Remove excess hair from inside the ears. Showing the dog requires special grooming.

Health Issues

The Pumi suffers from no major genetic defects, generally it’s a healthy breed. There is a small chance of hip dysplasia occurring. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. However, to make sure that you get a healthy puppy, you should buy a Puli puppy from a reputable breeder.

Living Environment

This breed is not recommended for apartment life. It does best with an average-sized fenced yard. It will be happiest where it has work for it to do for the family. This dog can sleep and live outdoors but also likes to be near its family and master.