Pumi

The Pumi is a middle-sized, Terrier-like dog, with a long, thick, curly coat, which does not form into cords like the Puli. The tail has a distinctive curl and is carried high; this is complemented by a similar tendency in the ears. Coat colours are black, all shades of grey and reddish brown, but always one solid colour.

The Pumi originated in the 17th or 18th century, when shepherding Terriers were brought to Hungary from Germany and France. These dogs mixed with the Puli and the result was a Terrier-type herding dog with a medium long coat (easier to groom than the Puli), elongated muzzle, prick ears, high set tail broadly curving over the croup and a Terrier nature and habit. The Pumi in comparison to the Puli is much younger in its origins and was first regarded as an individual breed around 1920.

The Pumi is a vigorous and sturdy sheepdog and its Terrier nature makes the breed a successful ratter and hunting dog. The Pumi is affectionate with its master and has a cheerful disposition. It can be shy around strangers, a characteristic which makes it a good watchdog. The Pumi is essentially an outdoor dog and will be at its best living on acreage or a farm.

The Pumi’s coat is easy to groom; occasional combing and brushing will keep it looking good and will need occasional trimming. The web type feet of the Pumi are susceptible to burrs or grass seeds and should be checked frequently. Showing a Pumi requires special grooming which is achieved by hand stripping the coat; smaller corrections around the head and legs can be achieved by scissoring, however, preparing the entire coat with just a pair of scissors is not desirable.