Breed History / Description
A newcomer to the UK, recognised in by the Kennel Club in 2015, the Pumi was developed in the late 17th and 18th centuries by the crossing the Puli type herding dogs with terriers and German Spitz. It is easy to distinguish the ancestry in the modern Pumi: his muzzle and tipped ears hark back to the terrier. The breed has shown its ability to work as a terrier and despatch vermin. The coat type nods recognition to the early Puli and herding dog coats. For some time the Pumi was regarded as a variety of Puli but 1920 Emil Raitsitz made a distinct separation of the two breeds and put into place separate breeding programmes. In this way the differences in type have become more defined and stabilised. The modern breed standard was drawn up in 1960.
Pumi are still used as herding dogs but their appealing looks and lively temperament are gaining them growing popularity as companions.
Characteristics
Herding dog, with terrier traits. Well developed scenting ability. Excellent companion and active sporting dog.
Temperament
Lively, expressive, bold, a little suspicious of strangers, but never aggressive or overly shy. Somewhat vocal and always ready for action.
Club, K., 2018. The Kennel Club's Breed Standards. 5th ed. London SW1V 2SA: Ebury Press.