Pumi

Hailing from Hungary, the Pumi is a dog similar to the terrier and is of small or medium size. Although the United Kennel Club (UKC) does not have an official breed standard for the Pumi, it currently uses the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) standard. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Hungarians mixed their local Puli-type dogs with herding dogs from France and Germany. The foreign dogs were said to have some terrier ancestry, which might have been the reason why the resulting progeny were so good in herding sheep, swine, and cattle. Early in the 20th century, the characteristics of the Hungarian sheepdogs were identified, and selective breeding began to intensify such characteristics. Although virtually unknown outside Hungary, Pumis have a small measure of popularity in Scandinavia as participants in obedience, agility, and dog dancing competitions.

Although relatively small with a square body, the Pumi looks bigger with its thick coat, which is always one solid color; black, white, gray, and reddish brown are the most popular colors. Curly and thick, the coat consists of a harsh topcoat and soft undercoat, with an estimated length of 2.75 inches (7 centimeters). Other major physical characteristics include its upright, tip-bending ears; an elongated muzzle, which constitutes almost half of the head; and oblique, dark eyes. The Pumi stands at 13 to 19 inches (33 to 48 cm) at the withers and weighs 18 to 33 pounds (8 to 15 kilograms); males are generally bigger than females.

Personality

A multifunction dog, the Pumi not only makes a great family companion, but also a formidable hunter, guardian, and pest control agent. It can be shy or reserved towards strangers, so socialization at an early age is strongly recommended. Pumis are best suited for living conditions with a lot of space and activities, so they are not recommended for apartment life. Highly intelligent, this dog breed is lively and easy to train. Pumis need assertive owners; if they sense their masters are weak willed, they become bigger decision makers in the relationship.

Breed Characteristics

Pumi Build Information

Although relatively small with a square body, the Pumi looks bigger with its thick coat, which is always one solid color; black, white, gray, and reddish brown are the most popular colors. Curly and thick, the coat consists of a harsh topcoat and soft undercoat, with an estimated length of 2.75 inches (7 centimeters). Other major physical characteristics include its upright, tip-bending ears; an elongated muzzle, which constitutes almost half of the head; and oblique, dark eyes. The Pumi stands at 13 to 19 inches (33 to 48 cm) at the withers and weighs 18 to 33 pounds (8 to 15 kilograms); males are generally bigger than females.

Behaviour and Personality

A multifunction dog, the Pumi not only makes a great family companion, but also a formidable hunter, guardian, and pest control agent. It can be shy or reserved towards strangers, so socialization at an early age is strongly recommended. Pumis are best suited for living conditions with a lot of space and activities, so they are not recommended for apartment life. Highly intelligent, this dog breed is lively and easy to train. Pumis need assertive owners; if they sense their masters are weak willed, they become bigger decision makers in the relationship.

Appearance

The Pumi's medium-length coat tends to grow constantly, with possible matting if there’s no consistency to grooming. So, the dog requires combing every few weeks, as well as trimming every 2 to 4 months. It is recommended to remove excess hair from inside the ears.

Pumi Common Health Conditions

Hip dysplasia (hip disorder) and patella luxation (knee disorder) are the two most common health problems affecting the Pumi. Apart from that, though, the dog breed is generally healthy.

Pumi Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The Pumi is also known as the Hungarian Pumi to emphasize its country of origin. It was identified as an independent breed in 1920. The FCI recognized the Pumi in 1966. The average life expectancy is 12 to 14 years, although some Pumis live up to 19 years. The Pumi can be mischievous when not kept busy. The Pumi has little to no shedding. Pumis have been used for many purposes including herding, search and rescue, dog dancing, agility, and drug detection.