~ Outgoing, affectionate, companion ~
The Puggle dog breed is increasing in popularity as a mixed breed dog crossing a Pug with a Beagle.
They make great family dogs, being very loving and affectionate and getting along well with children and other dogs. With his cute looks the Puggle is becoming a popular hybrid dog.
They are also make a great companion dog with their compact size and good nature.
The Puggle dog generally has the snout, tail and ears of the Beagle and the wrinkly face of the Pug. However as with any mixed breed this can vary from dog to dog and they may have a short Pug nose. They also have the sniffing, inquisitive characteristic of the Beagle and are good at jumping while out on their walks!
So the temperament of the Puggle dog combines the active, inquisitive nature of the Beagle with the companionable nature of the Pug.
The Puggle Dog – Temperament
Be aware the Puggle dog can be stubborn as this is a trait in both the Pug and the Beagle, so they are not known as being very easy to train. If they are out on a walk and catch a scent they can ignore commands – a Beagle trait!
They can also have a tendency to howl and bark, again from their Beagle parent.
It should be noted that the Puggle thrives on human company though and shouldn’t be left alone for long periods of time. This can lead to separation anxiety, so they may be better in a household where there is someone at home, or maybe with another dog.
Puggle Dog – History
The first Puggle dogwas bred in the 1980’s by Wisconsin breeder Wallace Havens and was the first to register the crossbreed with the American Canine Hybrid Club. By 2000 the Puggle was being sold commercially and has grown in popularity since then.
The Puggle is not recognized as a breed by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club.
Vital Statistics
Average Height: 8-15 ins.
Average Weight: 14-40 lbs.
Average Lifespan: 10-15 Years
Colors
The most common colors are fawn, tan and black depending on the characteristics of the parents. Occasionally you can find a mixed color Puggle but this is not common.
Ease of Training The Puggle Puppy
The Puggle is a very intelligent hybrid dog but can have the stubborn traits of both the Pug and the Beagle so they are not known to be very easy to train. However with the correct training techniques this can be overcome – food rewards, positive reinforcement techniques, playing then praising.
As the Puggle dog breed is active and energetic, your pet will need daily exercise and space at home to run around. They do have a tendency to wander and to dig which they get from their Beagle parent.
Grooming
The Puggle has a smooth and short double coat and like the Pug and Beagle does shed. Weekly grooming will be required to get rid of excess hair.
We recommend buying a FURminator to keep your dog in shape!
FURminator deShedding Tool
We have found that the absolute best way of grooming any long haired dog breed is to use the FURminator grooming tool! We highly recommend this unique brush from Amazon to keep your dog in tip top shape. Click on the image below to find out more…
When bathing your Puggle do ensure you clean the folds in his skin around his muzzle and thoroughly dry between these folds.
It is just as important to brush a Puggle’s teeth as its coat. Dogs that do not have their teeth brushed regularly may feel tooth pain, and are at risk to cavities, as well as mouth infections.
By brushing a dog’s teeth, you remove plaque, prevent tartar buildup, and help freshen up their breath. It’s recommended that these dogs have their teeth brushed at least 2-3 times a week.
Clipping your dog’s nails is a necessity. If a dog’s nails become too long, they may become uncomfortable, even painful.
A good way to tell if their nails are too long is by listening to them clicking against the ground as they move. If you hear clicking, it may be time to break out the clippers.
Remember if you start grooming your Puggle when he is a puppy he will get used to it.
Health Considerations
Like people, dogs can get sick, and can be affected by all sorts of health issues. It is important to know about the possible health risks a dog faces when buying one, as well as provide the proper health care. Just because a condition is associated with a particular breed does not mean that your dog will be afflicted with the disease.
There are certain illnesses that the Puggle dog breed may be prone to.
- PRA Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Cherry Eye
- Hip Dysplasia
- Respiratory ailments (more risk with Pug nose)
- Reverse sneezing
As the Puggle can be prone to PRA, a DNA test for this should be done before breeding, so it is important to use a reputable breeder to ensure these tests are done.
Reverse sneezing is a non-threatening respiratory ailment that some Puggles may have – also called backwards sneezing.
Top 10 interesting facts about the Puggle Dog
Check out the video below for the top 10 facts about the Puggle!
In Conclusion
It is important to purchase a dog from a reputable breeder, especially when one is looking for a popular breed such as this.
If you are looking for a loving, affectionate, loyal, fun-loving dog, do consider the Puggle dog – you will not be disappointed! With this adorable dog you will never feel alone.
Resources and Further Reading
We highly recommend researching before you choose your breed (or crossbreed!) of dog – the books below are great reading for the Puggle lover/owner! Click on the images for more information.
