Meet the Pumi, The New Dog Breed

There are some “legendary” dog breeds and some “modern” ones. Each with its own special and interesting characteristics. In this article, we’re going to talk about a new dog breed, the Pumi. The Pumi originates from Hungary, shepherds use them to look after their flocks. Read on to find out all about them!

What does the Pumi look like?

Pumis are mostly gray (either light or dark), although they are actually born with completely black fur, which becomes lighter once they’re 6 weeks old. The final color depends on the color of the dog’s parents.

Some of the Pumi may also be white or a combination of brown and yellow. The Pumi has a medium-length coat (around 3 inches) with curly thick hair, which needs to be combed and cut every 2 months.

The most striking aspect of this breed is its semi-erect ears with the tip slightly bent downwards and covered with hair. The head is thin and long, with a large snout and small dark eyes. The Pumi males can weigh up to 33 pounds and measure 18 inches, while the Pumi females weigh up to 28 pounds and measure 17 inches.

What’s the Pumi’s personality?

The Pumi is a protective breed, somewhat reserved with strangers, but at the same time sociable. They’re lively, intelligent, active and often bark a lot. They easily understand commands and you can train them easily if you use treats and toys.

This breed is the typical shepherd, guardian, and cowherder. However, the Pumi are also excellent city pets. They do need a good amount of daily exercise, like walking and other physical or mental activities. They love to play and run, and they adapt to both rural and urban life as long as they can exercise outside.

If you choose the Pumi to work in the field, they’re very attentive, alert, tenacious, brave (with larger or smaller animals) and work hard in whatever they do. While at home surrounded by the family, the Pumi is happy, faithful, yet cautious with strangers. They may get bored easily, and don’t stay quiet for long. If you leave them alone, they tend to become nervous, compulsive and destructive.

The health of this new dog breed?

Usually, the Pumi or Pumik – as Swedish and Finnish call them – enjoy a good long life. They live between 12 and 14 years and some up to 19 years old. The most common health problems with this dog breed are hip dysplasia and dislocation.

Being a “rustic” breed and suitable for working in the fields, the Pumi doesn’t get sick too often. Nevertheless, you have to pay close attention to it’s coat because it’s prone to allergies.

Also, you have to be careful with the Pumi’s ears, since they can suffer from fungal infections. If Pumi dogs spend a lot of time outside, you need to check their fur or legs for insects and parasites.

What else do you need to know about the Pumi?

This new dog breed actually dates back to the 18th century, when people crossed the Puli with a terrier breed of German/French origin. However, it’s only been officially bred since the early 20th century.

In recent times, the Pumi has gained notoriety in other countries besides Hungary, Finland, and Sweden.

As a result, they’ve been recently accepted in dog shows and contests. Many people choose the Pumi as a pet or as a helper in the fields. The Pumi shows willingness and a desire to work. It’s uncommon to find a shy or quiet Pumi. Because of this, the Pumi is an ideal pet for those who live an energetic non-stop life!