Originally, the Pumi is a Hungarian shepherd, created by breeding Puli’s with German and French shepherd dogs. Because this dog is used to moving around a lot and doing tasks for you, it is a dog that fits perfectly in an active family. Because with children and other pets he is good to deal with. Have you become curious about this energetic and inquisitive medium-sized dog? Then read on and decide whether this dog suits you.
Not a Puli but a Pumi: a breed that herds cattle
The origin of the Pumi lies in Hungary. The breed probably originated by accident, by breeding the Hungarian Puli with German and French sheepdogs. For a long time, people mistook the Pumi for the Puli. It was not until 1920 that the Hungarian professor Dr. Emil Raitsits was believed to have separated the Pumi from the Puli. He encouraged the breeding of this breed so that traits could be defined.
The Pumi was used to herd livestock. The breed was created in the need to create a dog that herds as well as possible. This made the breed very fast, agile, and able to make quick decisions. They could herd the cattle without causing injury to the cattle. Today in Hungary they still use this dog breed for herding cattle. Outside Hungary, this dog is gaining popularity as a companion dog.
A cheerful dog that is easily gets along with people and animals
The Pumi has a nice character. He is cheerful, curious, attentive, and interested in everything around him. He is incredibly perceptive, making some owners of this breed feel that their dog can read minds. Some Pumi’s love to cuddle, others prefer to lie by your feet. This dog breed fits well in a family with children. However, the dog often gravitates towards a particular person with whom it prefers to spend its time.
The Pumi also does well in a household with other pets. He usually recognizes when the animals are not dogs and ignores cats if they are not friendly to him. Still, you should be careful when you have a cat. Pumis are also good at getting along with other dogs, if the other dog doesn’t force himself on them. Do you have small pets like guinea pigs or hamsters? Because this dog breed also does hunt small rodents, it is not wise to keep them together under one roof.
Pumis are inquisitive dogs that like to work hard for you. You do need to be careful that your training is not too monotonous and repetitive. Otherwise, he will lose his attention. Reward your dog especially when he does well. He responds less well to negative treatment, both verbal and physical.