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The Puggle dog breed is one of the most popular designer crossbreeds in the United States.
Puggles is a cross between the Beagle and Pug breeds. Usually, Puggle puppies are the offspring of a male pug and a female beagle.
They're slowly gaining popularity due to their loving behavior and adorable looks.
They are good-natured and friendly dogs. These intelligent dogs do good with kids and other dogs, making them great family pets.
Generally, Puggles are energetic and active dogs. As the dog owner, it's your responsibility to burn off these excess energies through exercise and play.
Puggle Dog Breed History
As we've discussed earlier, the Puggle dog breed is a cross-breeding of a Pug and Beagle.
But not all designer dogs have been well-documented throughout history. But the Puggle is one of the few with well-known roots.
According to PetGuide, the first Puggle originated in the U.S. in the 1980s. A lot of people believed that the first Puggles were the result of accidental breeding.
However, Puggle enthusiasts claim that they originated from planned breeding intending to create a new breed.
And the first litter of the Puggle mixed breed was produced by a Wisconsin breeder named Wallace Havens.
Over the years, this breed has gained popularity all over the United States. And in 2005, Puggles have become the most widely owned crossbreed dog in history.
Although not recognized by the American Kennel Club, Puggle breeders have been working hard to create a more standard look and temperament for this crossbreed.
Breeders also have high hopes that the AKC will recognize Puggle in the future.
On the other hand, the Puggle dog breed is recognized by other national and international clubs including the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry.
Physical Characteristics of a Puggle
Size
Generally, Puggles are 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Toy-sized Puggles, however, are less than 13 inches tall.
On the other hand, most puggles weigh around 18 to 30 pounds, and toy-sized poodles weigh 8 to 17 pounds on average.
Coat Color
The Puggle dog breed has a double coat. It is also short and smooth. Their undercoat is short and dense and it is covered by a little longer topcoat.
On the other hand, their coat colors include fawn, red, tan, lemon, black, or any of these colors with white.
It is also common for Puggles to have black masks on their faces. Also, Puggle's coat colors can vary on the mixture of their parents.
And since that Puggles are double-coated, they tend to shed a lot and should be brushed at least once a week to remove excess fur.
Puggle Temperament
To determine the Puggle's personality, you'll need to see their parents. Because just like most crossbreeds, their temperament depends on the parents and how they have been bred.
But you don't have to worry since both their parents, the Pug and the Beagle are affectionate, joyful, and friendly dog breeds.
Making Puggles sweet and intelligent little dogs that can be a great addition to the family.
Puggles are loyal and affectionate dogs, even though they are active.
They also love to just cuddle up on the sofa or your bed. These dogs thrive on attention and affection.
They are also playful and they love to cuddle since they enjoy spending time with their owners. Puggles also get along well with kids and other pets.
However, if your Puggle is not getting enough exercise, it can result in howling, barking, digging, or wandering.
Beagle's Personality
Beagles are easy-going and joyful dogs that are fun to be around. They are good-natured and they were bred to be pack animals, meaning they will get along with most dogs.
However, if you've got a cat in your home, it's best to expose it to them at a young age to develop a good relationship.
Also, they are good watchdogs as they'll bark at anything unusual.
But just like Pugs, they are not great guard dogs as they'll probably play with the burglar once they're indoors.
Pug's Personality
Pugs, on the other hand, are charming and good-tempered dogs. They are great companions for owners and even strangers.
Pugs are playful and they love to make you laugh. They are also good with other dogs and animals.
Living with a Puggle
Puggles are generally indoor dogs. In fact, they should live indoors with the family and not outside.
They can easily adapt to any living situation. So you don't have to worry about living in the city or a small apartment.
As long there's enough space for them to do zoomies around, then you are meeting the required exercise your pup needs.
They love the company of their owners but can do okay on their own as long as they get plenty of exercise and have toys that can keep them entertained.
Also, Puggles are decent watchdogs. They tend to bark at strangers that are approaching your home.
But they are not the best guard dogs as they can be a bit too friendly and easy-going.
Training
Just like all dogs, Puggles are needed to be trained for socialization at an early stage.
Exposure to different surroundings, people, and other pets at a young age can help your puppy grow into a well-rounded dog.
These dogs might be intelligent, but they are a bit stubborn. That's why it's best to train your dog using positive reinforcement techniques.
For instance, if they obey or do something good, reward them with treats, play, and praise.
Exercise
Just like any other dog, exercise is crucial. Exercise can help them burn off excess energy and keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Puggles have moderate energy levels and they need at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. These 30 minutes can be spent through a walk to the park or playtime.
As the pet owner, you must make sure you'll be walking your dog with a leash and playing with them in a secured area.
As we've discussed earlier, Puggles tend to inherit their parent's personalities, and in some cases, Beagles sometimes ignore their owner's commands when they've picked up an intriguing scent, which Puggles may sometimes do too.
Puggle Health
Puggles are quite a healthy breed but sadly some Puggles may carry inherited diseases from their origin breed.
Not all Puggles carry these diseases but some may be as sensitive as their origin breed.
Here are illnesses to watch out for:
Cherry Eye
Cherry Eye is an ocular condition where-in the ligament in the third eyelid that holds the tear duct detaches from the orbital bone.
This causes the gland to prolapse and becomes visible in the outer eyelid. In its early stages, pain is unnoticeable but as it is more prominent, pain is evident.
The good news is it's not contagious and not fatal. Just make sure to have your Puggle checked up when they get the cherry eye.
Untreated or prolonged conditions may worsen and develop dry eye and infections in your pet.
Ear Infection
Since the Puggle inherited its ears from their Beagle breed, it’s much bigger and droopier, making it difficult to clean it naturally themselves as well.
Ear infection causes may vary but it’s essential to have them checked during regular visits to veterinarians.
If you notice shaking of the head, unpleasant odor in the ears, or overly scratching of their ears, do have them checked immediately.
Heatstroke
One of the origins of Puggle is the Pug. Pugs are very much heat intolerant. Sadly, the Puggle may inherit this.
It’s best not to expose the Puggles to a warm climate as they are prone to panting which may lead to heatstroke.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition wherein the socket of the joint and ball becomes distorted. Puggles are sadly prone to hip dysplasia.
When diagnosed with hip dysplasia, it’s important to keep their weight in the normal range and have them exercise with activities that promote joint therapy.
Veterinarians may prescribe medications for anti-inflammatory/ pain relievers and supplements.
Prevention is the same which is keeping them active but not injuring them as well. A treadmill walk or swimming is perfect for prevention and recovery as well.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is the inactive function of the thyroid gland. Metabolism is slowed down if diagnosed.
The immune system attacks the thyroid gland as it does not recognize it. Usually, this is an inherited disorder.
If the Puggles are experiencing lethargy, slow heart rate, weight gain, excessive shedding, and high cholesterol, it’s best to have them tested with the veterinarian.
If Puggles are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, the veterinarian may provide maintenance and recommended diet. It’s best to have this condition checked and addressed immediately.
Idiopathic Seizures
Idiopathic seizures' causes are unknown but it is an inherited cognition. Some Puggles may suffer from this condition and there is no known cure as of now.
Veterinarians may administer anti-seizure but it can only decrease the severity of the seizure.
Make sure to have your Puggle checked immediately to provide the right medication for the condition.
Obesity
Obesity is the excess body fat in dogs. Excessive weight may cause another disease in the dog’s health or may be a symptom of another underlying disease.
Obesity must be addressed immediately. Puggles who are obese must be consulted with the veterinarian for further examination regarding the reason.
If an unbalanced diet is a cause, providing a balanced diet and exercise may be a treatment.
Sadly some underlying conditions are worse. It’s best to have the dog examined immediately.
Patellar Luxation
Patella Luxation is the patella shifting alignment out of the femur. This can range from high to low levels of luxation, and each requires different treatments.
Symptoms may include skipping and kicking off the leg. It’s best to consult with the veterinarian for treatments, therapies, or procedures required to help Puggles with patellar luxation.
Stenotic Nares
Stenotic Nares means the nostrils are shaped narrowly making it difficult for air to pass in and through. It is a part of brachycephalic syndrome.
Dogs that have stenotic nares are usually recommended to have surgery to widen the gap for more comfortable breathing.
Grooming of Puggles
Puggles may have trouble facing their grooming routine. The best suggestion will be early exposure and positive association.
Owners should hold their paws, hold their mouth or teeth, and hold their ears casually as much as possible.
If they see that the action is harmless, they’ll react less negatively to it. By the time they get used to it, grooming may be more effortless.
Still, you need to know that this requires much great patience for both the owner and the dog.
The grooming routine is best done after your Puggle is worn out after playtime and their meal. This is when they are most relaxed.
After or during grooming routines, it’s best to have a treat set aside, so they’ll recognize that the activity is beneficial for them as well.
Coat
Although the Puggle has short hair, it is a double coat. The inner coat is short but dense while the second layer is much longer and finer.
Puggles have a smooth double coat. Puggles shed quite a good deal so they may require brushing at least twice a week or more.
Brushing their hair can help reduce dead hair and grime altogether, allowing the newer coat to grow.
Brushing helps regulate natural oil in their skin and coat for a healthier texture and shape.
Bath time for Pugs may be done at least twice or thrice a month, and of course, after a messy activity.
The Puggle may not require much bath time as their double coat helps repel grime and dirt. Although it’s still best to rinse them after swimming out or after a muddy walk.
Remember to thoroughly lather the folds of their skin and dry them completely as well after the bath.
It’s important to keep them dry before letting your Puggle out and about again.
Puggles are prone to hot spots, adding moisture and grime build-up too, now that’s more infection as well.
Ears
Another regimen we should carefully watch out for with Puggle is grooming their ears.
Unlike Pugs who have smaller ears that flop, Puggle inherited the Beagle’s ear which is quite large, heavy, and thick. It may be too hard for them to dry it themselves.
Make sure to clean the Puggle’s ears after a bath or when it gets wet. It’s important to dry it completely.
Moisture and build-up grime is a big factor in infections. And the ears are no stranger in this scenario.
Teeth
Puggles need to brush their teeth at least once or twice a week. This may require early exposure as not all dogs like their teeth being brushed.
Puggles are a bit prone to tartar so, dental bites and brushing can help the build-up gradually instead.
They have the nails of the beagle and that means it’s bigger and grows faster. Puggles may need to trim it at least once a week.
There’s no need to trim all the time, as owners can file it instead if the length is not that much.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Puggle Dog Breed
Can Puggles be left alone?
Puggles, like both of their origin breed, are quite fond of their companion or family. They cannot be left alone for a long period of hours.
Puggles who are left alone may develop separation anxiety and depression, thus, they will become destructive.
If the owners are planning to leave, they can either leave the Puggle at a daycare or with someone the dog is familiar with as well.
Why does my Puggle stink?
Some Puggles may emit bad smells. The cause may vary from grooming needs to medical reasons.
Try evaluating the Puggle’s skin, especially skin folds, for any moisture, warm or unusual texture.
If there are any present, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to examine the area.
Puggles may need a better grooming regimen due to their thick skin folds as these areas are prone to infections.
Are puggles lazy?
Unlike their origin breed, the Pug, Puggles are quite energetic. Sometimes Puggles may begin wandering, digging, and barking when they're bored.
It’s best to satisfy their daily need for physical and mental stimulation.
Puggle Dog Breed Summary
If you're fond of mixed dog breeds, one of the cutest and most adorable examples is the Puggle dog breed.
They are one of the most popular designer crossbreeds in the U.S. Puggle puppies are a cross breed between a Pug and a Beagle.
Puggles are good-natured and friendly dogs. These dogs are great companions and can be the next addition to your family.
They are generally active dogs. They are full of energy and they love to spend time and play with their owners.
On the other hand, they also love to just cuddle up on the sofa or bed with you.
Puggles are affectionate dogs. They thrive in a positive environment like any other dog.
If you're planning to adopt a Puggle puppy, make sure to adopt through a reputable breeder or a rescue group like Saint's Puggle Rescue.
