Origin
Hungary
Lifespan
12–13 years
Weight
8–15 kg
Height
38–47 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Black · White · Gray · Fawn
Pumi
About This Breed
The Pumi is a Hungarian herding terrier with a distinctive curly coat and expressive, semi-erect ears. Agile and driven, they are versatile farm dogs that excel at herding cattle, sheep, and swine.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Pumi
Origin
| Origin | Hungary |
| Group | Herding |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 8–15 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–13 years |
| Height | 38–47 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Black · White · Gray · Fawn |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Lively · Alert · Intelligent · Bold |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Teach children to handle it gently and leave it alone when it rests.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Pumi is a Hungarian dog bred to be a fast-moving and intelligent helper for shepherds. These curly coated dogs were tasked with moving herds of sheep or cattle, and needed to think independently but work in close cooperation with humans, according to the Hungarian Pumi Club of America (HPCA). When full-grown, the Pumi dog stands 15–18.5 inches tall and weighs 22–29 pounds. Caring for a Pumi The Hungarian Pumi resembles a teddy bear, thanks to the breed’s semi-erect ears; curly coat; and dark, expressive eyes.
Care Guide
The Hungarian Pumi resembles a teddy bear, thanks to the breed’s semi-erect ears; curly coat; and dark, expressive eyes. Although Pumik (the plural name for the breed) appear cute and cuddly, don’t underestimate the versatility, work ethic, and smarts of this herding breed. The Pumi has the agility and aptitude for many activities, including hiking and dog sports. Find regular activities to do with your dog: Pumik are energetic and need daily activity to stimulate the mind and exercise the body. “They are extremely bright, and if their brains are not engaged on a regular basis, mischief can happen,” says Nancy Nelson, president of the Hungarian Pumi Club of America. At home, a Pumi will settle down easily. And while they tend to attach themselves closely to one person, these dogs are a good fit for families if given proper training and socialization.