Pumi
The Pumi is described by the AKC as energetic, lively, ready to work, a member of the Herding Group, originally from Hungary.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 16-18.5 inches (male), 15-17.5 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 27-29 pounds (male), 22-24 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Energetic / Lively / Ready To Work [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | Hungary [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 160 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Pumi is very intelligent and energetic, needing regular exercise and mental stimulation. They're also quite agile and will climb over and under things, and they love to be in high places to see what's going on. Their favorite toys are often tennis balls and flying discs, and a Pumi is likely to demand a good chase-and-fetch game with these. [1]
Grooming
The Pumi's coat consists of 50 percent soft hair and 50 percent harsher hair, all the same length. He needs combing every three to six weeks, followed by a good wetting-down to let the coat curl back up. Once curled, the coat can be trimmed to keep it looking tidy. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Pumis are generally a very healthy breed, and responsible breeders screen for health disorders such as elbow and hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, degenerative myelopathy (DM), and eye disorders. The website of the breed's parent club, the Hungarian Pumi Club of America, provides detailed information on Pumi health. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - DNA Test, Degenerative Myelopathy (Common Variant) (DM) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Pumi in 2016. [1]
- It ranked No. 160 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “pumi.” [1]
- The AKC lists Hungary as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
Common questions
How long do Pumis live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-13 years.
How big does a Pumi get?
AKC breed information lists height 16-18.5 inches (male), 15-17.5 inches (female) and weight 27-29 pounds (male), 22-24 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Pumi?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Pumi, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.