Hungarian Pumi

The Pumi may be rare and relatively unheard of, however their close relatives are the Hungarian Puli and the erroneously named Tibetan Terrier (actually another small nimble herding/watchdog breed). The Pumi’s ancestors were herding dogs brought by the Magyar peoples, migrating from the Ural-Altay region between China and the Caspian Sea, to the Carpathian Basin around 800AD. At this time breeding was done based on working ability more than appearance, however the Pumi was further refined to the dog we know today, by the addition of the Pomeranian Schafspudel (Sheep Poodle) and the now extinct Hutespitz (herding spitz).

The Pumi’s job was complex, and the title ‘herding dog’ really doesn’t cover it sufficiently. Pumi’s had to drive livestock (goats, cattle, sheep) in the tight confines of narrow lanes and small strips of land. They had to prevent their livestock from straying across unfenced boundaries, get close to stock, move between their legs to get ahead of the flock in a tight space, and of course alert to danger, and generally act as a watchdog. These challenges were also often completed by the dog without a human handler close by, so they had to make decisions by themselves, and often very quickly.

The modern Pumi is still an agile, brave, quick thinking and independent dog that adores their owner but really needs to work. Despite their long history of working with humans, they remain fairly rare in the UK, only being awarded breed classes by the UK Kennel Club in 2020.

If you like a small, unusual dog, are keen on grooming and training both for fun tricks and general day to day manners, you may be an ideal Pumi person! This clever little breed needs a quick-thinking fun human who is around most of the time, understands how pastoral breeds think and has lots of time for walks and training. Not for a first-time owner or those who like more easy-going breeds.  

At least two hours per day, this can be split into two walks of around an hour each, plus training and games or puzzle solving as well. They are not bothered about cold or wet weather particularly but will need care in hot weather, being walked early on and late in the evening when temperatures are safer. Consider some sort of dog activity such as sheep-ball or actual herding work to keep the Pumi entertained and happy.

Easily housed in most homes, it is the lifestyle and training experience of owners that is more important than housing with the Pumi. A secure garden is a must, and access to a variety of walking routes, including secure places for off lead fun is vital. As with most quick-thinking reactive dogs, a bus, noisy urban environment would probably be too stressful for them.

Your dog’s diet, needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed your dog at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

The coat of the Pumi is not difficult to look after, but requires rather specific dog grooming. They should never be brushed, but instead combed out once every couple of weeks, then the coat wetted down on the surface to reform the curls. Once dry, the curls can then be trimmed to tidy up the dog’s appearance. As with all dogs however, a daily check over through the coat and of paws, ears, beard and eyes after exercise is sensible and will help avoid injury.

If you can make dog training fun, the Pumi will enjoy working with you. Pay careful attention to early and rigorous dog socialisation with people, other pets and livestock. This is a dog for those who actively enjoy training and dog sports, Pumi excel at agility, herding, obedience and much more, and if well entertained will make a great house dog.

Best for those who understand active and clever herding dogs with an independent nature. This may rule out new dog owners, and those with tiny children who take up a lot of time. For those who enjoy dog training and dog sports, and have the time to treat, the Pumi is a great family companion. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.