Puggles are a hybrid breed that are the result of crossing a Pug and a Beagle; two purebred dogs. A Puggle is a moderate sized dog that is considered excellent family pets. They have the playful and docile lap dog qualities of the Pug and the energy and hunting instincts of the Beagle.
The Puggle is an exceptionally friendly breed that gets a long well with children and thrives on human companionship. They have plenty of energy and can be quite hyperactive at times – a trait they inherit from both their parents.
Most Puggles are a perfect mix of Pug and Beagle and will warm the hearts of anyone looking for an energetic, outdoor loving lapdog.
Puggles History
Puggles have an extremely short history, and very little is known about when the first cross breed took place or why. What is known is that that Puggle breed originated in America, and a Wisconsin Puggle breeder known as Wallace Havens was the first to register a Puggle litter with the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC). Havens is also credited with giving the breed its name.
The Puggle, like all hybrid dogs, are bred in different ways. For instance, Puggles may be bred as follows:
- Pug – Beagle
- Pug – Puggle
- Beagle – Puggle
- Puggle – Puggle
The different combinations produce different characteristics in the dogs. For instance, certain coat color or other physical features may be different, and the temperaments may vary as well depending on how many Beagle traits there is in the dog compared to Pug or vice versa. Therefore, it’s a good idea to ask a Puggle breeder how they choose to breed their dogs and why.
It is interesting to note that even though Puggles are hybrid dogs, they actually sell more than both their purebred parents. The main reason why these dogs sell for so much is because they are considered “Designer Dogs”. Designer dogs are different hybrid breeds like the Puggle that have become extremely popular.
Puggles – Charming Companions
Puggles are incredibly loving and friendly dogs. They love to be in the laps of their master and fellow family members, just as they love to be outdoors running and enjoy the fresh air. Due to their incredibly social and affectionate nature, the Puggle is considered an excellent family pet and is wonderful with both children and other family pets.
Keep in mind that although they are affectionate, and Puggles can look serious when calm and quiet, they are not ideal guard dogs and will welcome virtually any stranger into their home. That being said, they are quite the watchdog and love to bark to say “hello” or to alert their family to strangers. Aside from barking, you should also be warned that a Puggle may have also inherited the howling trait from their Beagle genes. You may find howling cute at first, but it is a noise that will quickly irritate you and your neighbors.
Puggles are a relatively intelligent breed. That being said, they can be difficult to train, especially when it comes to housebreaking. However, the Puggle is a clown at heart and easily catches on to tricks and adopts certain behaviors that bring out their true character.
The average Puggle stands about 13-15 inches at the shoulders and is approximately 15-30 pounds. Some Puggles may actually be bred smaller by combining a pug with a smaller Beagle. This Puggle breed is known as a “Pocket Puggle”, and they only differ from the regular Puggle variety in that they are slightly smaller in size, typically by 10 pounds.
As far as health is concerned, Puggles are sensitive to extreme climates and are susceptible to overheating and catching colds just like their Pug ancestors. The Puggle can still develop snoring and other breathing problems such as wheezing, even though their muzzle is slightly longer than a Pug. Breathing problems can develop from vigorous exercise, which the average Puggle tends to enjoy due to their Beagle heritage. Therefore, you need to make sure that your Puggle doesn’t overexert yourself.
Puggles also enjoy eating and have hearty appetites. Care needs to be taken to ensure that this breed doesn’t overeat, as obesity can become a health concern. Other health risks include ear infections and cherry eye. Nevertheless, despite their health issues, the Puggle can generally live a healthy life of 14 years or more.
Puggles do require a sufficient amount of exercise on a daily basis in order to keep them trim and happy. They love to play and should be taken on walks (twice daily for 15 – 20 minutes) weather permitting.
Grooming a Puggle is easy as they are considered a low maintenance dog. They only need an occasional bath ( A few times per year), as rubbing their coat with a damp towel and giving it a brush on a regular basis (few times per week) keeps their coat glossy and clean. Although the Puggle does not have as many wrinkles as a Pug, their wrinkles and face still need to be wiped daily to ensure they are clean. You also need to check and clean their ears once a week to avoid infection.
Puggles shed quite a bit, especially during spring. Therefore, they are not a hypoallergenic dog and will leave hair around the home wherever they go.
You need to keep all of the above information in mind if you are considering making a Puggle a part of your family.
Puggle Training & Care…
