Pumi

The Pumi is a nimble, lively, medium-sized breed. The features of these dogs are their elongate muzzle, upright ears and their wavy coat. The Pumi is not fitted for a living in a city apartment, it is more suitable for countryside life. This extremely active breed can be devoted and become true friends for people who are fond of sports. Pumi is a perfect companion for a single person or for a family. But it is not a good choice for a family with little children.

The Pumi is a rather old breed that originated in the XVII century. The breed’s native country is Hungary and it is also called the Hungarian Pumi. The name «Pumi» was mentioned in 1815. This dog is a result of an intermixture of several breeds, most likely the Puli and some different European breeds such as the German Pinscher, the French Briard and dozen other breeds. Nonetheless the breed has much in common with the Puli and shares its incredible natural terrier-like tenacity and stamina. It preserved the rich, weather-resistant outward coat of the Puli but it’s deprived from heavy undercoat and therefore its hair don’t tend to form cords.

Hungarian farmers used the Pumi as a multifunctional dog that could do many tasks. These dogs were herders that coped excellent with various animals such as sheep, cattle or pigs. Moreover they were brave watchdogs guarding their masters, property and house. The Pumi also exterminated rats and other vermin. Besides all these it was used as a hunting dog.

During the XVIII and XIX centuries in Hungary farmers were not much concerned about a pure pedigree of the breed. So the interbreeding occurred frequently. Actually the Puli and the Pumi were considered as two varieties of one breed. But at the beginning of the XX century Hungarian professor Emil Raitsis initiated work on the separating different sheepdogs from each other and their further selection. In 1921 the first standard for the Pumi was written. In 1923 the breed began to participate in dog shows. In contrast with the Puli, which by that time became a popular companion animal, it was predominantly bred for its excellent working abilities.

The Pumi suffered less than other Hungarian breeds from the World War II. In 1966 it was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). At the beginning of 1970s Pumik (plural form) were imported into Finland where they have remained a very popular breed. Since 1980s this dog appeared in other European countries. In 1990s the Pumi was brought to the USA. In 1996 the United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the Pumi. The American Kennel Club granted its official acceptance to the breed in 2011. The breeders worked assiduously to maintain and enhance the working drive of this dog so it’s still often assigned with herding and guarding tasks. However it also blossoms in the role of a companion and show dog.

The Pumi is a loyal pet and firms strong attachment to its family. It can suffer and be heartsick from prolonged separation with its master. Ordinary Pumik are kind and tolerant with children, especially with whose they grow up with. However if they are not well socialized they can be unpredictable and can display aggressive behavior. That is why they are not appropriate to small kids who do not know yet how treat dogs.

The dog is reserved and mistrustful with strangers, as it was bred as a guardian during long period of time. The Pumi is highly curious and will pay attention to any unusual sight, sound or scent. This characteristic makes it a wonderful watchdog. Be mindful though that its first reaction will be most probably loud barking so this dog may be annoyingly vocal and no amount of obedience training will be able to remove this obnoxious habit.

Usually Pumik get along with other animals including dogs. But the early socialization is very important. This breed has possessive streak and authoritative mentality, which can cause severe conflicts with unknown dogs. That’s why it’s essential to always keep this dog leashed or muzzled while being walked. The breed members can be hostile with small animals, because Pumik were ratters and may take small animals as a threat.

The most common problems for the Pumi’s health are:

• canine hip dysplasia;
• elbow dysplasia;
• entropion;
• pattelar luxation;
• primary lens luxation;
• degenerative myelopathy (DM).

The Pumi’s grooming requires some efforts from its owners’ part. But it is essential to brush its coat regularly and trim it occasionally if it is necessary. Plan to groom your dog at least twice a week in order to keep its hair mats free. Pumi also requires bathing and trimming every three or four months. After bathing you should air-dry its fur in order to attain its natural curly form.

It is recommended to keep the length of the dogs’ coat between 3,8 and 7,6 cm so your dog will always look tidy. The rest consists of such regular routines as nail trimming and teeth brushing. Periodic cleaning of the dog’s ears is a good preventive measure against ear’s infections and various irritations. The grooming of the Pumi is usually quite time-consuming and needs certain experience. This fact must be taken into account before adopting this breed member.

The Pumi is very clever dog with a quick mind. It learns fast and easy. Nevertheless some difficulties can occur with its training. If the Pumi feels that it is more intelligent and dominant than its owner, the dog will be unguided and won’t obey at all. Therefore it is imperative to show your dominant position constantly.

As this breed is highly intelligent the training must be various in order that the dog is not bored performing repetitive tasks. This dog will never tolerate rough treatment and will react to it with brattish and even aggressive behavior.

The Pumi is an extremely active, full of energy breed that needs a lot of daily exercises. These dogs love to run, chase balls or Frisbees and many other activities. It is utterly important to give it at least a couple of hours a day of a long walking and running freely.

If the Pumi is deprived of enough amount of physical activity, the dog begins to display destructive behavior, it becomes irritable, aggressive, can bite and barks continuously that may cause conflicts with your neighbors.