Grooming and Maintenance Requirements of the Pumi: Tending to Their Unique Coats
The Pumi's distinctive curly coat not only sets it apart in terms of appearance but also necessitates specific grooming and maintenance practises to keep it healthy and comfortable. Here's a closer look at what's involved in caring for the Pumi's coat and other grooming needs.
Regular Brushing
Pumik have dense, curly coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Brushing should ideally be done at least a few times a week, if not daily, to remove loose hair and debris. This also helps distribute natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it healthy and shiny.
Bathing
Bathing should be done on an as-needed basis. Pumik are relatively clean dogs and don't typically have a strong doggy odour. Use a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner to maintain the coat's texture and keep it soft and manageable.
Trimming
While Pumik have a natural, rustic appearance, their coat may need occasional trimming to keep it in shape and prevent excessive matting. Pay special attention to areas like the ears, paws, and the rear end, where hair may grow longer and be more prone to matting.
Eye and Ear Care
The Pumi's facial hair can sometimes irritate the eyes, leading to tear staining. Regularly check and gently clean their eyes to prevent staining and discomfort. Additionally, inspect and clean their ears regularly to prevent ear infections, a common concern in dogs with floppy ears.
Nail Care
Keep an eye on your Pumi's nails and trim them as needed to prevent overgrowth. Long nails can cause discomfort and even affect their gait.
Are Puli Dogs High Maintenance?
Both Puli and Pumi dogs have curly coats, but they differ in terms of maintenance. Puli dogs have a corded coat that forms naturally into cords or dreadlocks. This coat requires a unique grooming process known as "cording," which involves separating the cords and ensuring they dry properly after bathing. Puli grooming can be considered high maintenance due to the time and effort required to maintain the cords.
On the other hand, Pumi dogs have a dense, curly coat that requires regular brushing and occasional trimming to prevent matting and maintain its overall condition. While they do require grooming attention, it is generally considered moderate compared to the Puli's cording process.
Do Pumi Dogs Shed Hair?
Pumik are considered low-shedding dogs. Their dense, curly coats trap loose hair, which reduces shedding compared to breeds with straight or smooth coats. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps shedding to a minimum. While they do shed some hair, it is generally not as noticeable as in breeds with different coat types.
Do Pumi Dogs Need Grooming?
Yes, Pumi dogs do require grooming to keep their unique coats in good condition. Regular brushing, occasional trimming, and proper eye, ear, and nail care are all part of the grooming routine for Pumik. Grooming also helps maintain their overall health and comfort, ensuring that their curly coats remain free from matting and tangles.