Pumi health: what owners should know

The Pumi is generally healthy, but the breed is known to be affected by hip dysplasia, loose kneecaps, degenerative myelopathy (a slowly progressing spinal cord disease) and primary lens luxation. Responsible breeders screen hips and kneecaps, DNA test for known conditions, and have eyes examined before breeding.

Keeping your dog lean and fit, protecting young joints and scheduling yearly checkups all help. See a vet if your Pumi becomes lame, scuffs or drags its back feet, stumbles when turning, or shows a red, cloudy or painful eye.