How to Identify a Pumi

The Pumi is a Hungarian sheepdog and a member of the herding group. [1] Once considered a regional variant of the Puli, it wasn't until the early 20th century that it began to be standardized as its own breed. [2] Thus, Pumik share lots in common with other breeds, but they do have their own unique features that can be used to distinguish them. This wikiHow will help you identify a Pumi by recognizing the breed's key traits.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Inspecting the Structure

  1. Pumik are medium-sized dogs, with males standing at 16–18.5 inches (41–47 cm) tall and weighing 27–29 pounds (12–13 kg). Females are slightly smaller with a height of 15–17.5 inches (38–44 cm) and weight of 22–24 pounds (10.0–10.9 kg). [3]
  2. The head of a Pumi is long with a moderate width. The planes of the head are parallel and have a slight stop, and the head appears flat when viewed from the side. [4]
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  3. A Pumi's ears are covered in hair, medium in size, and set high on the head. They are carried 2/3 erect, while the tips point down somewhat angled toward the sides of the dog. Pumik use their ears to express themselves, so the ears are very mobile and are quick to react to stimulation. [5]
  4. Pumik have dark brown eyes that are oval-shaped and of a medium size. They are set deep, slightly oblique, and moderately wide apart with tight-fitting rims, giving the dog an intelligent, alert, and uniquely whimsical expression. [6]
  5. The muzzle of a Pumi makes up 40-50% of the dog's head and tapers to the nose with a blunt endpoint. Overall, the muzzle and jaws appear strong, with a black nose, dark and tight lips, and well-developed teeth that meet in a scissors bite. [7]
  6. Pumik have cat feet, which means that their paws are rounded in shape. The paws are tight with well-cushioned pads, well-knit toes, and strong, typically black, nails. Any dewclaws may be removed. [8]
  7. A Pumi's tail is arched over the back so that it forms a circle from the base to the tip. The tail is high-set, sits atop the topline, and may hang down in repose. [9]
  8. Pumik are agile, muscular, and square in build with medium bone. They have a slightly arched neck, a fairly narrow and deep chest, slightly sprung ribs, moderately angulated shoulders, straight legs, and a short back. Pumik walk with an energetic but light and spirited gait. [10]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Looking at the Coat

  1. A Pumi's coat is made up of curly and wavy hair that forms curls and corkscrews. It stands approximately 1.5–3 inches (3.8–7.6 cm) off the body and is comprised of an even mix of 50% harsh hair and 50% softer hair from the undercoat. [11]
  2. Pumik may be black, white, any shade of grey, or a shade of fawn ranging from pale cream to red. Fawn Pumik may also have black or grey shading, and intermixed grey, black, or white hairs may be present without taking away the solid color's appearance on any colored dog. A Pumi may have a small white mark on the chest or white toe tips. [12]

    Did you know? Grey Pumik are born black and fade into a grey shade as they age. [13]

  3. Other than being combed every three to six weeks and a wetting to allow their coat to regain its curls, Pumik do not require much coat care. They are also a non-shedding breed, though hairs may come out while the dog is being groomed. [14]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Analyzing Temperament

  1. Though Pumik may not be the largest of dogs, they are hard workers and require daily exercise. Because of their origins, they are highly athletic and driven. They do best when given a specific job to complete that can utilize their athletic abilities as well as their mind. [15]
  2. Pumik are a very intelligent breed and are quick learners. With training, they can prove to be obedient and if properly motivated can excel in training. [16]
  3. When focusing on work, a Pumi may exhibit independence. It is important to acknowledge that the owners are in charge of the household, especially if the Pumi is primarily a pet. [17]
  4. Pumik typically do well with other dogs or even cats in the same household. They do not tend to have issues living with other pets. [18]
    • Be wary of any prey-like animals, such as rabbits or hamsters, however, as a Pumi may see them as prey rather than family. [19]
  5. Unlike some breeds that prefer to closely bond with only one or two family members, Pumik are open to spending time with any member of their family. They do not favor any over the others. [20]
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      Tips

      • Consider DNA testing if you'd like to know your dog's breed. A DNA test will confirm if your dog is a Pumi.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pumi/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pumi/
      3. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pumi/
      4. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      5. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      6. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      7. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      8. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      9. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      1. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      2. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      3. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      4. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pumi.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pumi/
      6. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pumi-temperament/
      7. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pumi-temperament/
      8. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pumi-temperament/
      9. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pumi-temperament/
      10. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pumi-temperament/
      11. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pumi-temperament/

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