Puggle – history

Wallace Havens – a Wisconsin dog breeder – was responsible for cross-breeding the first Puggle in the 1980s. Because the puggle dog breed is not an original breed but rather a mixture or a hybrid of two breeds, the major kennel clubs couldn’t register it. American Canine Hybrid Club did, though. The pug and beagle cute mix has been gaining popularity since the early 2000s.

Puggle – appearance

It has to be noted first that because the Puggle is a crossbred, irregularities as to its genetic makeup can appear. As a result, individual dogs often look different. However, there are some shared qualities we can describe this family dog with. The first distinct characteristic of this hybrid breed are multiple wrinkles on its muzzle and face. Some owners find them adorable. Maybe people have a linking to them because frowning in human terms is a sign of focussed thinking and intelligence. Moreover, you can expect Puggles to have:

  • a stocky body;
  • short, straggled legs, but longer than a Pug;
  • thick padding on its paws;
  • quite a thick Beagle tail;
  • a Pug curl of the tail.

Puggle – head

The dog’s muzzle is elongated in comparison to that of a Pug. Some Puggles have a large, full head while others have a rather small and thin head. Their forehead has deep wrinkles. The ears are middle-length and floppy. Some Puggles may have inherited an underbite and a black mask from a Pug.

Puggle – fur

Puggles are classified as a short-haired breed. They have a double coat made of a dense undercoat and a slightly longer topcoat. You can get a Puggle in one of these colors, possibly combined with some white patches called particolor:

  • fawn
  • red
  • tan
  • lemon
  • black

Puggle – size

Puggles come in a variety of sizes. In general, they can be small to middle-sized. A standard version of this hybrid breed is between 10 and 15 inches at the shoulder. The weight fluctuates between 14 and 30 pounds. Dog owners should remember that Puggles have a tendency to put on weight so portion control, regular meals and exercise are key in keeping them fit and healthy. Tiny-sized dogs have always been popular because they are cute and adorable. You can come across Pocket Puggles, Minature Puggles or Toy Puggles. They are usually between 8 and 13 inches high and weigh from 8 to 17 pounds.

Puggle – character

Puggles are sweet, charming and cuddly dogs that are friendly towards children and other animals. Instinctively, they can sometimes chase smaller pets so make sure you socialize your Puggle with other house pets as early as possible. They are affectionate and enjoy hanging out with their owners.

See also:  All the Pharaoh Hound Dog Breed Information You'll Need: An Exotic Breed With a Rich History

Not only that, but Puggles are also intelligent dogs that may or may not choose to be trained. Some are known for being slightly stubborn. Positive reinforcement techniques can make it worthwhile, though. Use treats, clicker training and other rewards to bond with your puppy, keep it entertained and active.

Although the Puggle’s friendly nature disqualifies them from being guard dogs, they will loudly inform you that a stranger approaches by barking. Beware that some can be howlers.

Puggle – mental health

These friendly and loving dogs continuously strive for human companion. As a result of an owner’s prolonged absence they may suffer from separation anxiety. Take your dog with you, hire a petsitter or accomodate it in a pet hotel. Other behavioral issues Puggle owners may struggle with include:

  • howling
  • barking
  • digging
  • wandering

Early socialization and exposure to model behavior can minimize unwanted behavior. Talk with a breeder so that you have a complete overview of the early stages of its life.

Puggle – physical health

Never buy a puggle puppy from unchecked breeders, puppy mills or pet stores. Extremely low prices can be a warning sign. Do your research and ask the breeder for medical tests results. Everyone wants to purchase a healthy puppy that will accompany them for long years. It is important to be aware of possible heath problems attributed to a puggle breed. Some of the most common ones include:

  • Stenotic Nares – a congenial disorder resulting in breathing problems;
  • Hip Dysplasia – a hereditary disease in which a thighbone doesn’t fit into the hip joint appropriately; the condition can deteriorate as a result of high-calorie diet or jumping on sleek surfaces;
  • Hypothyroidism â€“ deficiency of thyroid hormone can lead to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. Additionally, the dog’s fur may fall out. This condition can be well-managed with medication. When diagnosed, dogs with hypothyroidism can live normal and happy lives;
  • Patellar Luxation – it is caused by the patella which is not properly aligned and may lead to arthritis and degenerative joint disease;
  • Epilepsy – the causes of this disease are not known. The symptoms are seizures that, in most cases, can be managed with medication;
  • Cherry Eye – the gland located in the dog’s third eyelid augments; the reddened mass can be removed surgically.

The right food for a Puggle

Although the recommended amount of food for Puggles is 5/8 to 1.5 cups of dog food daily, divided into two meals, individual differences have to be considered. Dieticians determine the perfect quantity depending on the dog’s:

  • size
  • built
  • activity level
  • age
  • metabolism

Make sure to consult an expert if your dog is dealing with weight gain. As this breed has a tendency to get obese, avoid free feeding your dog. Instead, measure the food and provide your Puggle with regular meals twice a day. It goes without saying that physical activity is a powerful tool to keep your puppy fit and healthy.

See also:  Meet the Silken Windhound - Unique and Intelligent Puppy Breed for Training and Families with Children!

Life expectancy

Puggles live between 10 and 15 years. Individual differences between dogs as well as their diet, lifestyle and regular veterinary check-ups all play part in determining the exact life expectancy. No matter how long your pup end up living, take care of his mental and physical health so that he has the best quality of life possible.

Puggle – care

Caring for your dog is a way to keep it pretty and healthy. It is also the time when you can bond. Keep your puggle happy by taking care of it regularly.

Caring for Puggle’s fur

Despite the fact that the Puggle’s fur can be classified as short, they shed. Owners have to commit to weekly brushing sessions to get rid of dead hair.

Caring for Puggle’s skin

Additionally, the dog’s wrinkles and folds have to be kept clean and dry to prevent infections.

Caring for Puggle’s eyes

Make sure to keep your dog’s eyes clean of any dirt or discharge. By wiping the areas around the eyes, you can be up-to-date with any possible irritations or infections.

Caring for Puggle’s nails and teeth

These activities are rather obvious but worth mentioning. Trim your dog’s nails around once or twice a month or when needed. If you hear any clicking on the floor while your Puggle is running to greet you, this is a sign its nails require clipping. Dental problems are not only really costly, but also cause other serious health issues. Brush your dog’s teeth every two days or so to get rid of an accumulation of tartar.

Caring for Puggle’s mental and physical condition

Plenty of exercise is essential for the dog’s mental and physical health. It lowers the probability of obesity and keeps it happy, well-behaved and connected with the owners.

How to get your dog used to grooming?

The best way to teach your pet that grooming is a positive experience is through positive reinforcement. Start all the necessary procedures as early as possible to get your dog used to grooming. For example, give it an all-time favorite snack each time after a nail-clipping session.

Puggle – breeding

The first Puggle was born from a Beagle mother and a Pug father. The reason for that is that giving birth to a bigger dog could result in both the pup’s and mother’s death. A Pug couldn’t be a mother in the first mixed breeding stage. An average litter size of a Puggle is between 2 and 4 puppies. Breeders have to be aware of the genetic variance of a mixed breed as well as possible health issues.

Puggle – price

Puggles are designer dogs that have gained much popularity. Because of if, a Puggle puppy can cost you from $1000 to $2000 per pup. It is every future owner’s responsibility to find a reputable and responsible breeder. Unfortunately, puppy farms run for profits and not for the good of animals is a huge problem.

See also:  The Spinone Italiano: A Furry Companion for Your Outdoor Adventures

Puggle – for whom?

Puggles are for people who can embrace their slightly chaotic but upbeat personality. They are great with children and friendly towards other dogs. Because some of them enjoy digging outdoors, they might be suitable for garden owners. If you are ready to make your puggle happy by letting it rearrange your flowerbeds it might be the right choice. The dogs love to be active, and they make an excellent walking companion. Agility training is a good way to discharge their energy. Puggles are generally affectionate and gentle, so they are a good choice even for beginner dog owners.

Puggle – genetics

Genetics is not a predictable thing. While you may hit the jackpot and end up with a lovely, affectionate and healthy puggle, the opposite can happen too. The worst-case scenario is buying a dog that displays the following characteristics:

  • respiratory problems of a Pug;
  • stubbornness of a Pug and a Beagle;
  • tendency to wander of a Beagle;
  • howling of a Beagle;
  • hip dysplasia of a Pug and a Beagle;
  • eye issues of a Pug and a Beagle.

One solution to avoid unhealthy individuals is to adopt an adult dog when given an opportunity. There is never a guarantee as certain health issues come with age, but you can slightly diminish the possibility of some conditions.

Puggle – trivia

Being a designer breed, Puggles have gained popularity. A few tidbits connected with them are:

  • some celebrities who own a Puggle include: Uma Thurman, Penelope Cruz, Jake Gylenhaal, Kelly Osbourne, Julianne Moore, James Gandolfini, and Sylvester Stallone;
  • a Puggle often snores and snorts but those who love Puggles can definitely forgive their pets this little peculiarity;
  • aggression among Puggles is extremely rare;
  • potty training may take a bit longer with this breed than with others;
  • Puggles are cheerful dogs that show it by wiggling their body and wagging their tails all the time.

We hope that after reading this article, you will familiarize yourself with this wonderful hybrid dog wose companion will brighten up your days for many years. Mixed breeds are generally healthier than purebred dogs, so there is a high possibility that you will end up with a vigorous pooch with an amiable personality.


Similar Posts: