Puggles - The Energetic & Loving Cross Breed
Puggles are a hybrid breed and are a cross between the two purebred dogs the Pug and the Beagle. The Puggle is a moderate size and looks like a perfect mix of the Pug and Beagle. They have a Pug-like snout and lap dog quality and floppy Beagle-like ears and hunting instincts. Puggles have been recognized as a hybrid since approximately the 1990’s and originated America. They are one of the most popular hybrid breeds in the world.
The standard Puggle stands between 13-15 inches at the withers and is about 15-30 pounds. They have plenty of energy and are prone to hyperactivity which is a trait they inherit from both their Pug and Beagle ancestries. Therefore, it is important that the Puggle receives significant exercise and plenty of play time. However, that being said, Puggles can overheat easily and shouldn’t be exercised to vigorously or in hot weather. The Puggle requires two, 15 – 20 minute walks per day, as well as the freedom to run around and play.
Even though Puggles have plenty of energy and love the outdoors, they are also content with lying in the lap of their master. Thus, as long as they are in the company of their master or family (the Puggle does not like to be left alone), the Puggle is content in an apartment or out in the country.
They are very social, loving and devoted dogs, and are without aggression. They enjoy the company of children and are very good with them. Thus, the Puggle makes a wonderful family companion.
Due to their social nature, the Puggle is not an ideal guard dog. They welcome strangers into their homes without reservation. Nevertheless, they do make excellent watchdogs, as they love to bark and will alert their owners to the approach of strangers. In addition, some Puggles have also been known to howl, which is a Beagle trait. This trait may be interesting at first, but may become quite bothersome to you and your neighbors if it persists.
Puggles are quite intelligent and are very obedient when provided with the right training. However, they can be very stubborn learners and are especially resistant to housebreaking. Therefore, plenty of patience, encouragement, and consistency is required when training this breed. In addition, Puggles enjoy learning tricks. They have an excellent sense of humor and are little clowns at heart.
Puggles are generally healthy, and the average dog lives to about 14 years or longer. That being said, Puggles do have some hereditary health problems such as catching colds and overheating, which is common among Pugs. Other Pug related problems include certain breathing problems such as snoring and wheezing. This is why great care should be taken to ensure a Puggle does not overexert himself when exercising or in play. Puggles are also known for their impressive appetites, and if not provided a controlled diet and sufficient exercise they can become obese. Other Puggle health problems include ear infections and cherry eye.
Puggles have a smooth short coat. They are average shedders and will leave their hair wherever they go. They are easy to groom, and should be brushed a few times per week to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Puggles do have a some face wrinkles that require a daily wipe to ensure they remain clean. Their ears should also be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent ear infections.
The coat color of a Puggle may vary. Some may have the typical tri-colored black, white, and tan markings common among Beagles, or they may be fawn in color. Nevertheless, despite what color their body coat may be, all Puggles have the same black facial masks that are characteristic of Pugs.
Puggles are an excellent hybrid breed and are one-of-a-kind when it comes to their appearance and their devotion to their human family.
