Pumi
LivelyExpressiveReady to work
Hungary · 12–13 years
About the Pumi
The Pumi (pronounced 'POO-mee,' plural: Pumik) is a lively, whimsical Hungarian herding breed with a distinctive curly coat, expressive semi-erect ears, and an irrepressibly cheerful personality. Developed from crossing Pulik with German and French herding dogs, the Pumi emerged as a distinct breed by the 1700s. They are energetic, vocal, and remarkably agile — used to drive unruly Hungarian cattle and pigs. Their curly, corkscrew coat and tilted, curious ears give them an almost comical, teddy-bear-like appearance. Pumik are bold, ready-for-action dogs that bring energy and entertainment to everything they do.
Breed stats
- Height
- 15–18.5 in
- Weight
- 22–29 lbs
- Lifespan
- 12–13 years
- Group
- Herding
- Coat
- Curly, wavy, medium length, forming corkscrew ringlets
- Origin
- Hungary
Coat colors
- Black
- White
- Gray
- Fawn
- Born Black (fading)
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
60–90 min
per day recommended
Daily food
1–1.5 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Primary lens luxation
- Elbow dysplasia
Not every Pumi will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Pumis eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- Yes, Pumik are very vocal dogs — one of the barkiest herding breeds. They bark to alert, to herd, to express excitement, and sometimes seemingly for the pure joy of hearing their own voice. Their bark is sharp, high-pitched, and persistent. This was a valued trait when driving stubborn Hungarian cattle, but it can be challenging in residential settings. Training can moderate excessive barking but will never eliminate it — barking is fundamental to the Pumi temperament. They are not suitable for noise-sensitive environments or apartments with thin walls.
- Pumik and Pulik are both Hungarian herding breeds but differ significantly. Pulik have a corded (dreadlock) coat; Pumik have a curly, corkscrew coat that is never corded. Pumik have distinctive semi-erect ears that fold forward at the tip; Pulik have drop ears hidden by cords. Pumik are more terrier-like in temperament — quicker, more reactive, and more vocal. Pulik are more independent and deliberate. Pumik were developed later by crossing Pulik with European herding breeds. Pumik are slightly smaller and lighter. Both are intelligent herders, but Pumik are the more energetic, outgoing breed.
- Pumik can be good family dogs for active, experienced households. They are cheerful, playful, and generally good with children they are raised with. Their moderate size and sturdy build make them manageable. However, they are very high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their intense barking requires patient training. They can be protective of their family and reserved with strangers. Pumik need experienced owners who can channel their energy constructively and manage their vocal tendencies. For the right family, they are entertaining, loyal, and endlessly engaging companions.
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