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Dog Breed

Pumi

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Pumi

Origin: Hungary

Breed Group: Herding

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium

Height: Male: 16–18.5 inches (41–47 cm), Female: 15–17.5 inches (38–44 cm)

Weight: Male: 27–29 lbs (12–13 kg), Female: 22–24 lbs (10–11 kg)

Coat Type: Medium-length, curly, and dense with a soft undercoat

Coat Colors: Black, white, gray, or fawn (can lighten with age)

Grooming Needs: Moderate (regular brushing and trimming to maintain curls)

Shedding: Low

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Energetic, alert, intelligent, lively, vocal

Intelligence Level: Very High

Energy Level: High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–13 years

Common Health Issues: Patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet for active breeds

Exercise Needs: High – thrives on daily exercise, agility, obedience, and herding tasks

Space Requirements: Adaptable; best with access to space and activities

Noise Sensitivity: High (very vocal, especially when alerting)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Highly intelligent and responsive; excels with positive, reward-based training and mental stimulation

Good with Children: Yes, typically friendly

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, typically friendly

Good with Other Pets: Yes, with early socialization

Training: Highly intelligent and responsive; excels with positive, reward-based training and mental stimulation

Description

The Pumi is a spirited and agile Hungarian herding dog, known for its lively expression, perky ears, and tight corkscrew curls. Originally bred to herd sheep and cattle, the Pumi is an energetic, smart, and vocal breed that thrives with mental challenges and lots of daily activity.

Its curly coat gives the appearance of being non-shedding, but it needs routine grooming every few weeks, including brushing and occasional trimming to keep the curls healthy and mat-free. Pumis are quick learners, ideal for obedience, agility, and trick training, and they need an active home that can match their pace.

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History

Origin: The Pumi originated in Hungary, with its roots tracing back to the 17th and 18th centuries. It developed from crossbreeding the Hungarian Puli—a long-established herding breed brought by the Magyars from the Ural-Altay region—with French and German herding dogs and terriers. This mixing occurred as a result of livestock trading between Hungary, France, and Germany, where herding dogs from different regions interbred, either accidentally or intentionally, to meet the needs of local shepherds.
Development: The Pumi was bred specifically to herd livestock in the unique conditions of western Hungary, where pastures were small and often accessible only through woods or narrow roads. Shepherds needed a quick, decisive, and independent dog capable of working close to semi-wild livestock, such as Hungarian Grey cattle. The breed’s terrier-like attributes—agility, alertness, and a lively temperament—were honed through centuries of selective breeding. The Pumi was first mentioned by name in 1815 and distinguished as a separate breed from the Puli in the early 20th century, with a breed standard written in 1921.
Recognition: Though long established in Hungary, the Pumi was not officially recognized as a distinct breed until the early 20th century, when controlled breeding and breed standards began. The breed remained rare outside Hungary for much of its history. In recent years, it has gained international recognition, including full American Kennel Club (AKC) status as a member of the Herding Group in 2016.
Today, the Pumi remains a rare but valued herding breed, both in Hungary and abroad. It is celebrated for its intelligence, agility, and energetic personality, making it a capable working dog and a lively companion. The breed is still used for herding on Hungarian farms and has found a place as a companion animal in homes worldwide. Its distinctive corkscrew-curled coat, expressive face, and whimsical demeanor have contributed to its growing popularity, though it remains relatively uncommon outside its homeland.

Ideal Owner

Active, experienced owners who enjoy training, dog sports, and energetic companionship

Similar Breeds

Border Collie, Miniature Schnauzer, Puli, Australian Terrier