The Pug Beagle mix is a hybrid mix between a Beagle and a Pug, and they are often referred to as the Puggle. This hybrid has become quite popular because of its adorable looks and fun loving personality. Considered a designer dog, these dogs are generally great companions for the family. Of course, you’ll want to learn more about the hybrid before you decide to bring one home. Here’s a closer look at the Puggle dog, it’s history, health, appearance, grooming information, temperament, and more.
Origin and History
Although we don’t know a lot about the history of the Pug Beagle mix, it’s thought that this hybrid was probably created in the 1980s, possibly by Wallace Havens, a breeder from Wisconsin. This breeder was the first to register the Puggle dog with the American Canine Hybrid Club. However, it’s very possible that someone else may have bred the mix before this time. This is one of the more popular hybrid dogs, particularly among people looking for a fairly small, distinctive dog. We can learn a little more about these dogs by looking at the history of the two parent breeds: The Beagle and the Pug.
The Beagle traces back thousands of years, although no one is quite certain about the breed’s origin. Some think that they were around all the way back in Roman times. We know for sure that small hounds known as Beagles were bred in England during the 1700s. However, what we know of as the Beagle today didn’t show up until the 1800s in America, where southern Americans bred small dogs for hunting purposes. The breed was later refined when it was imported to England, and the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
The Pug is considered an ancient breed that originates in China, probably before the 6th century BC. It’s also thought that this breed was probably a predecessor to the Pekingese. The breed was imported to Europe in the 16th century, and the dog became increasingly popular throughout Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. The dogs were very popular among the British Monarchy, who became quite involved in the breeding of these dogs.
Appearance
Usually the Pug Beagle mix will be between 13 and 15 inches tall, and they generally weigh between 18 and 30 pounds. They have a smooth, short double coat, with a dense, short undercoat that is covered with a topcoat that’s slightly longer. Some of the potential coat colors include black, red, lemon, fawn, and tan, and any of these colors may be combined with white. In some cases, the Puggle dog may have the black mask of the Pug on their face as well.
Puggle Temperament
The Pug Beagle mix is usually a very smart, sweet dog that is perfect for families. They love to spend time with their family and they are very cuddly and playful. Usually the Puggle dog gets along well with anyone, including other pets and young children. Some of the potential behavior problems can include wandering, howling, digging, and barking. It’s important to make sure that the Pug Beagle mix is socialized early and trained as quickly as possible. Since both the Pug and the Beagle can have a bit of a stubborn streak, you’ll need to be firm but patient when training Puggle dogs, using praise and rewards while training.
Grooming
Since both the Pug and the Beagle tend to shed, you can expect your Pug Beagle mix to shed quite a bit as well. You’ll need to brush them a couple times a week to eliminate excess hair and to prevent matting. These dogs should only be bathed as needed, and the folds of skin around the eyes and muzzle need to be kept free from dirt and moisture to avoid infection. Any folds need to be dried thoroughly after bath time. You’ll also need to check the eyes of the Puggle dog regularly to ensure they are not irritated. Their teeth need to be brushed a couple times each week to eliminate bacteria and tartar buildup. Nails usually need to be trimmed once or twice each month, since these dogs probably won’t wear the nails down on their own.
Working Roles
The Pug Beagle mix is a beloved pet and they are usually not used in any working roles.
Health
Since both the Beagle and the Pug have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, you can expect your Puggle dog to live to be between 12 and 14 years as well. Both breeds are prone to some potential health problems, and while hybrid dogs are usually significantly healthier than purebred dogs, you still need to be aware of the health problems of the parents. Some of the possible health issues that may affect the Pug Beagle Mix include:
- Necrotizing meningoencephalitis
- Hemivertebrae
- Obesity
- Proptosis
- Entropion
- Glaucoma
- Ear infections
- Pulmonic stenosis
- Hypothyroidism
- Anemia
- Cherry eye
- Hypochondroplasia
- Beagle pain syndrome
- Deafness
- Cataracts
- Corneal dystrophy
- Chinese Beagle syndrome
- Narcolepsy
- Hepatitis
- XX sex reversal
- Pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism
- Lymphosarcoma