Puggle Hybrid Dogs

Often considered to be the hybrid dog that got the "designer dog" trend into the news, Puggles are one of the first and most popular of the canine hybrid dogs. Famous owners such as Sylvester Stallone, James Gandolfini and Juliana Moore have helped to promote and increase demand for these small size yet big personality dogs.

The Puggle is a cross between a Pug and a Beagle and as such continues to have the stocky, muscular body seen in both parent breeds. They have a short, rather bristly and dense coat that sheds a moderate amount of hair year round. They can be several different colors including the Pug tan and black, or the Beagle parti-colored variations. The tail tends to have the Pug curl or twist and the face tends to resemble more of a miniature Mastiff than either one of the parent breeds. The forehead can be very wrinkly but the muzzle tends to be longer than that of the Pug, meaning fewer respiratory and breathing problems. The eyes are round and slightly pronounced, typically dark brown in color. Ears tend to be longer, more like the Beagle, although some may be smaller Pug ears that turn over at the mid area.

As with any of the hybrid breeds, any Puggle puppy may more closely favor the temperament of the Pug or of the Beagle. In general they are friendly, affectionate and highly intelligent dogs that are easy to train. Occasionally some Puggles can have the Pug stubborn streak, but consistent positive training methods will help to bring the dog around. It is always recommended to take any puppy through a basic obedience class as this will help with both training and socialization. They are often described as having an almost human understanding of what is going on about them and the expressions to let you know just how they feel.

The Puggle is good with other dogs and is not generally highly territorial but they will bark and protect their homes. Puggle will also do very well with cats and other pets provided they are socialized and raised together, ideally from a young age. As with all dog types the males may be slightly more dog aggressive than the females, however in the breed as a whole this is not a major concern.

The very short coat of the Puggle needs once or twice a week grooming with a stiff bristle brush to remove dead hair. They should only be bathed when necessary to avoid drying the coat and skin. If the Puggle has deep wrinkles on the face it is important to wipe them out with a damp cloth and then completely dry the skin to prevent possible irritations and infections in the area. In addition the eyes are particularly prone to tearing, conjunctivitis and keratitis and need to be carefully cleaned and treated at the first sign of irritations or problems.

Some Puggles will have the undershot jaw and short muzzle typical of the Pug. While this is not a problem for the dog it often signals a sensitivity to heat and cold since breathing is affected with this physical attribute. Dog types with short muzzles are more prone to heatstroke and need to be watched during exercise to prevent possible health risks.

• ACHC
• UABR
• DRA
• CKC
• ICA
• APRI