The Pumi originated in Hungary in the 1600s. It was first developed for driving cattle and as a watchdog. Recently it has become popular as a companion in its homeland as well as abroad.

Bred from the Puli, and since crossed with Pomeranians or possibly Poodles, this dog has lost the corded coat of its Hungarian ancestor. Instead, the coat is long, thick and curly. The distinctive curl of the tail is complemented by similar tendency in the ears.

The Pumi should be between 13-19 inches tall and weigh between 18-29 pounds.

The Pumi is an exceptional guard dog. One owner states that when he arrives with a group of people, those people are "allowed" people. If another tries to come or go that wasn't in the group with his owner, they are not allowed to enter.

Some may be good with animals such as cats if they were raised with them. Bringing in a cat to a home already established with Pumi may not work out so well.

They're not a breed that "anyone" can approach and be liked. With the Pumi, you have to earn their respect and trust. They are not at all a vicious dog, however they don't tend to be very trusting of strangers at all. Even once they've allowed you to walk them or be close to them, causally reaching to pet them is not possible- they will back away and not allow it. You have to work your way into their hearts.

With their owners, they are very loving dogs and love to cuddle. They have great bonds with their owners and will protect them at all costs. They can be quite vocal dogs, especially around strangers- which makes them incredible guard dogs. They will alert you if someone is near that shouldn't be.

Pumi Video