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Pumi
Herding breed from Hungary
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Pumi
The Pumi is a medium-sized Hungarian herding dog, known for its distinctive corkscrew-curled coat and alert, lively expression. It is intelligent, energetic, alert, playful, loyal, and confident. The breed has a high energy level and is moderately trainable. Grooming requires moderate effort, and shedding is low. The Pumi is generally well-suited to families with children (rated 4 out of 5) and gets along moderately with other dogs (rated 3 out of 5). It is less suitable for apartment living (rated 2 out of 5). Adult males and females weigh between 10 and 13 kg and stand 41 to 47 cm tall. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 13 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Pumi at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHerding
OriginHungary
Lifespan12–13 years
Male weight10–13 kilogram
Female weight10–13 kilogram
Male height41–47 centimetre
Female height41–47 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Pumi was developed in Hungary during the 17th–18th centuries. It originated from crossbreeding the native Puli with German and French herding dogs and terriers. The breed was used as a versatile farm dog for herding cattle, sheep, and swine. Its exact ancestry and the specific timeline of its development are not fully documented, but historical accounts point to this period and these crosses. The Pumi's name and distinct appearance emerged from this mix, combining herding instincts with a terrier-like alertness.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
10–13 kilogramAdult weight41–47 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesCurlyCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentenergeticalertplayfulloyalconfident
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Pumi-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
Pumi puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight10–13 kilogramAdult female weight10–13 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Pumi?
The Pumi is a medium-sized breed. Adult males and females typically weigh between 10 and 13 kg and stand 41 to 47 cm tall at the shoulder. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 13 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Pumi's temperament like?
The Pumi is described as intelligent, energetic, alert, playful, loyal, and confident. However, individual dogs may vary. They are generally alert and lively, with a terrier-like expression.
How much exercise does a Pumi need?
The Pumi has a high energy level (rated 5 out of 5). It requires substantial daily exercise, such as long walks, runs, or play sessions. Without adequate activity, it may become restless.
What are the grooming requirements for a Pumi?
Grooming is rated moderate (3 out of 5). The Pumi has a curly coat that needs regular brushing to prevent mats. Shedding is low (2 out of 5). Professional grooming may be needed periodically.
Is the Pumi good for families and apartments?
The Pumi is generally suitable for families with children (rated 4 out of 5), but supervision is recommended. It gets along moderately with other dogs (3 out of 5). It is less suitable for apartment living (2 out of 5) due to its high energy and need for space.
Where does the Pumi originate from?
The Pumi originates from Hungary. It was developed in the 17th–18th centuries from crosses between the native Puli and German and French herding dogs and terriers.
Is the Pumi recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. Some registries recognize the breed, while others may not. Check with your local kennel club for specific recognition status.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.