Pumi now officially recognized by American Kennel Club

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NY) - The Pumi, a herding dog originating in Hungary, has officially been recognized by the American Kennel Club.

The breed weighs between 20-30 lbs. when fully grown. It is known to be energetic, requiring daily exercise.

"They're not for somebody who's going to sit and watch TV all day long," said Chris Levy, president of the Hungarian Pumi Club of America. But if provided with enough exercise and stimulation, "the pumi can chill out."

The dog goes back centuries in Hungary, where it herded cattle, sheep, and swine.

Its coat is a combination of wavy and curly hair that forms corkscrew curls all over the body.

On Wednesday, the Pumi became the 190th purebred recognized by the AKC.

AKC recognition requires having at least 300 dogs of the breed nationwide, among other criteria.

Two other new breeds, the American hairless terrier and an ancient North African hound called the sloughi, were recognized this past January and will also be eligible for Westminster for the first time next year.

It will be eligible for competition on July 1.

The pumi can vie for best of breed at Westminster for the first time next February.

With the Associated Press