Child-friendly
Energy level
Experience
Coat care
Shedding
Facts and Information
The Pumi is a highly intelligent, energetic, and agile herding breed from Hungary. Originally bred for herding cattle and sheep, the Pumi is known for its curly coat, expressive ears, and lively personality. Unlike its close relative, the Puli, the Pumi’s coat is wavy rather than corded, making it easier to manage.
This breed is often described as “a big dog in a small body” because of its incredible work ethic, quick thinking, and fearless attitude. It thrives in an active home where it can stay physically and mentally engaged.
Temperament
The Pumi is an intelligent, affectionate, and social dog that forms strong bonds with its owners. It is highly alert and makes an excellent watchdog, always ready to protect its home and family. However, it is not aggressive and warms up quickly to people once introduced properly.
One of the Pumi’s most notable traits is its playful and curious nature. It loves interacting with people, solving problems, and learning new things. This breed does well with children but may try to herd them due to its strong instincts. Early training can help manage this behavior.
Because of its high intelligence and energy levels, the Pumi can become bored and destructive if left alone for long periods. It is best suited for an active family that enjoys outdoor adventures and mental challenges like puzzle games or agility training.
Activity Level
The Pumi is a high-energy dog that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation every day. Originally bred to work on farms, this breed still retains its strong herding instincts and endless stamina.
To keep a Pumi happy and well-behaved, owners should provide:
- Daily long walks or runs
- Off-leash playtime in a safe area
- Interactive toys and puzzle games
- Dog sports like agility, obedience, or herding trials
Without sufficient activity, the Pumi may develop undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking, digging, or chewing. It is an excellent breed for active individuals, families, or farmers who can provide both physical and mental challenges.
Coat Care
The Pumi’s coat is dense, curly, and soft, giving it a unique and shaggy appearance. Unlike the corded coat of the Puli, the Pumi’s fur forms loose curls that require regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats.
- Brushing: Needs to be brushed every 1-2 weeks to maintain its shape and prevent matting.
- Trimming: Regular trims every few months help keep the coat neat and manageable.
- Bathing: Should be bathed only when necessary to preserve the coat’s natural oils.
- Shedding: The Pumi is a low-shedding breed, making it a good option for allergy sufferers.
Although its coat requires some maintenance, the Pumi does not have a strong dog odor and is relatively easy to keep clean.
Training
The Pumi is highly intelligent and eager to learn, making training both rewarding and essential. However, it also has an independent and sometimes stubborn streak, so owners must be firm and consistent.
Effective training methods include:
- Positive reinforcement (treats, praise, play)
- Short, engaging training sessions to keep the Pumi interested
- Early socialization to expose the dog to different people, animals, and environments
- Advanced training or dog sports to provide mental stimulation
Because of its strong herding instincts, the Pumi may try to chase or nip at small children or pets. Proper training can help redirect this behavior into appropriate activities.
Size and Weight
The Pumi is a medium-sized breed with a compact and athletic build.
- Height:
- Males: 41–47 cm (16–18.5 inches)
- Females: 38–44 cm (15–17.5 inches)
- Weight:
- Males: 10–15 kg (22–33 lbs)
- Females: 8–13 kg (18–29 lbs)
Despite its small size, the Pumi is incredibly agile and strong, capable of performing demanding physical tasks with ease.
Special Traits of the Breed
- “Curly-coated herder” – The Pumi’s unique coat is a blend of soft and wiry textures.
- Highly vocal – This breed is known for its barking, which it uses to communicate with its owners and herd animals.
- Expressive ears – The half-pricked, mobile ears of the Pumi are one of its most distinctive features.
- Excellent jumper – The Pumi has powerful legs and can jump extremely high for its size.
- Quick learner – It excels in obedience, agility, and herding competitions.
Inherited Diseases
The Pumi is generally a healthy breed, but like all purebred dogs, it can be prone to certain genetic health issues, including:
- Hip Dysplasia – A condition affecting the hip joint, common in many active breeds.
- Patellar Luxation – A knee issue that can cause temporary lameness.
- Degenerative Myelopathy – A neurological disorder affecting mobility.
- Eye Disorders – Some Pumis may develop cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can help maintain the Pumi’s overall health.
Diet
The Pumi requires a high-protein, nutrient-rich diet to fuel its high energy levels. A proper diet should include:
- High-quality protein (chicken, fish, beef) for muscle strength
- Healthy fats (salmon oil, flaxseed) to maintain a shiny coat
- Complex carbohydrates (sweet potatoes, brown rice) for sustained energy
- Joint-supporting nutrients (glucosamine and chondroitin) to prevent mobility issues
Portion control is essential, as overfeeding can lead to weight gain, which can put stress on their joints.
Dog Type
The Pumi belongs to the Herding Group and was bred for working on farms in Hungary. It is still used today as a herding dog but also excels in dog sports, search and rescue, and competitive obedience.
Because of its strong work ethic and intelligence, the Pumi does best in homes where it has a purpose or job to do.
5 Facts About the Pumi
- Hungary’s National Treasure – The Pumi is one of Hungary’s three national herding breeds, alongside the Puli and Mudi.
- A Rare Breed – The Pumi is still relatively unknown outside of Hungary and is considered a rare breed in many countries.
- Big Personality in a Small Body – Despite its size, the Pumi has the confidence and energy of a much larger dog.
- A Talking Dog? – Pumis are known for their wide range of vocalizations, including barks, growls, and “talking” sounds.
- Excel in Agility – Pumis are natural jumpers and climbers, making them stars in dog agility sports.
