Pumi Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Pumi is a lively Hungarian herding dog with a curly coat, tipped ears and a bounce in its step. It looks a bit like a terrier and behaves like a clever, tireless herder, and it is still rare outside Hungary.

Origins and appearance

The breed was developed in Hungary in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries from Puli and Western European herding and terrier dogs. Pumis are medium-sized and square, with a curly coat of medium length in gray, black, white or fawn, a long head with a beard and semi-erect, tipped ears. The tail curls over the back.

Temperament

They are energetic, intelligent and playful. They bond closely with family and can be reserved with strangers. They are alert and vocal. They have a strong herding drive. They can be reactive without enough exercise and training. They love to learn.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with running, play and training. They excel at agility, herding and obedience. Mental work is vital. A secure fence is needed.

Training

They are intelligent and quick. Use positive methods, variety and early socialization. Teach a quiet cue and impulse control. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The curly coat needs brushing a couple of times a week and trimming every few months. See curly coat dog grooming guide. It sheds little. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Patellar luxation. See luxating patella in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as primary lens luxation
• Degenerative myelopathy, with a DNA test
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections

Living with a Pumi

They suit very active owners with space and a job. They are poorly suited to sedentary homes.

A typical day

A Pumi wants a long outing, training, rest and play. Evenings are for relaxing. They like tasks.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and bright. Begin socialization, handling and training. Teach calmness. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming, food and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate most weather, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, skipping mental work, allowing barking to escalate and ignoring herding behavior.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and DNA tests, and the parents' temperaments. The breed is rare, so expect a wait.

The springy coat

Pumi curls spring back when dry, giving a tousled look. Brush gently when dry, comb through to the skin and trim to keep the shape. Damp curls tangle quickly, so brush after swims or rain.

Expressive and talkative

Pumis use body language and voice to communicate. They can bark at everything unless taught otherwise. Reward quiet, provide enough exercise and avoid unplanned barking triggers.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Pumi suits very active, patient owners who want a bright, tousled herding dog. It may not suit quiet homes. For the corded cousin, see the Puli.

Pumi in family life

A well-exercised Pumi is a cheerful household member. Many are happy to snuggle after a big day, but all of them have a quick trigger for excitement, whether it is a squirrel, a doorbell or a game. Establish routines early: a spot to wait while you open the door, a calm greeting for visitors and a quiet cue for barking. Short, frequent training sessions throughout the day work better than a single long one.

Finding a Pumi

Pumis are uncommon outside Hungary, so expect to contact breed clubs and possibly wait for a litter. Ask about parents' health tests, including primary lens luxation and degenerative myelopathy.

The takeaway

Pumis are curly, quick and talkative, and they need exercise, training and coat care.