Chihuahua Pug Mix Facts

The Chihuahua Pug, also known among dog enthusiasts as the Chug, is one of the most popular mixed-breed pets around. It’s not surprising though as the two-parent breeds – the Chihuahua and the Pug – are ranked highly in the list of most loved dogs in the United States.

There are historically no records or proof as to the origins of the Chihuahua Pug mix. However, it was probably intentionally bred in the U.S sometime in the last 20 years. Luckily, while this hybrid’s history is a bit muddled, that of its parents is not.

As a matter of fact, both the Chihuahua and the Pug have long and esteemed histories. The former’s origins reportedly predated recorded history while the latter has been around for 2,000 years and were the favored companions of Chinese royalty.

Pugs have been raised by monks in monasteries and later on spread across Europe in the 16th century, thanks to Dutch merchants. Meanwhile, Chihuahuas caught the interest of Americans in the 1800s through the 1900s when the breed became standardized.

If you’re planning to be the owner of a Pug Chihuahua cross, it’s in your best interest to also learn more about the parent breeds as well. This will give you some ideas on what to expect from your mixed dog and how to raise it.

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a Chihuahua Pug

• It has a ton of health issues. Unfortunately for the Chihuahua Pug, its parents are notorious for their myriad health problems. There’s a good chance that it will also inherit some of their weaknesses, particularly brachycephaly and dysplasia.
• It is prone to “small dog syndrome.” Small dogs and toy breeds tend to overcompensate and will try to exert dominance. They can also become snappy, yappy, and destructive. This bad behavior is often made worse because people tend to dismiss the dog’s actions due to its size.
• Doesn’t do well with extreme temperatures. Due to the breathing issues caused by its brachycephalic traits, the Pug Chihuahua struggles in cold temperatures and extreme heat. It’s good if you live in a region with moderate temperatures but if not, you have to make adjustments for your dog.

3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Pug Chihuahua

1. It’s great at giving cuddles. This is a very affectionate dog. It loves to follow you around and to cuddle. It’s partly due to its loving nature and also due to its low tolerance of cold temperatures.
2. It can live in small apartments. The Chihuahua Pug mix is a great apartment dog. Its small size means it can happily live in a small house or a condominium unit. It’s needed for a temperate environment also demands that it should remain indoors most of the time.
3. It’s a low maintenance pet. This hybrid’s short hair means a weekly brushing is enough to keep its coat shiny. It also doesn’t need to be bathed often, although owners should ensure that any wrinkly skin is always clean and dry.

Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Chihuahua Pug Mix

Weight	10 to 20 pounds
Height	6 to 14 inches
Size	Toy
Coat Type	Dense but short
Coat Color	Black, brown, cream, golden and white; Could have brindling, spots, and sabling as markers
Amount of Shedding	Moderate
Eyes	Dark
Nose	Black
Ears	Erect or folded
Temperament	Affectionate, loyal, smart, stubborn, and has a short attention span
Life Expectancy	10 to 13 years
Hypoallergenic	No
Kid Friendly	No
New Owner Friendly	No
Breed Recognition	American Hybrid Canine Club (ACHA), Dog Registry of America (DRA), International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR)

If there’s one thing to be said about the Chihuahua Pug mix, it’s that it has a large personality stuffed inside a tiny body, albeit one that’s muscular and sturdy. It has a rounded face, almond-shaped, dark eyes, and a short, round nose that might be slightly pushed in. Some would say the Chug is looking like a miniature Boxer.

Personality wise, this dog can either have the sweet temperament of the Pug or the suspicious nature of the Chihuahua. This mixed breed is generally regarded to be affectionate, sociable, playful, active, and loyal. It’s quite smart but has a short attention span.

As the offspring of two breeds designed for companionship, the Pug Chihuahua loves to spend time with its family. Don’t be surprised if your dog follows you around constantly. This is another lovable “velcro” dog, always attached or cuddled to its owner. Unfortunately, its need for attention from its owner can result in behavior problems like separation anxiety.

A Pug Chihuahua mix likes to please its human. This trait is handy during training, as it makes the dog more willing to learn and follow orders. However, this dog also has a stubborn streak a mile wide.

This hybrid dog isn’t the friendliest pet around. A Chihuahua mixed with Pug will retain a certain wariness, a characteristic it inherited from its parents. Pugs tend to be wary around strangers initially, but they can learn to get along well with other animals and children if they’re socialized early.

In contrast, Chihuahuas don’t react well to other animals and children, particularly young ones that are too energetic and rough. As a matter of fact, they tend to only tolerate their fellow Chihuahuas or a Chihuahua mixed breed. This dog can also become aggressive, especially when they’re not socialized properly, scared, or when they feel someone is encroaching on their territory.

Pug Chihuahua Mix Puppies for Sale

Raising a dog is a lifetime commitment, but a Chihuahua Pug mix brings with it additional health complications. If you are truly set on taking care of one, you should insist on parent breeds that have had proper health tests, with the results being registered at the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC). The organization requires genetic testingfor NME, dysplasia, and patellar luxation for Pugs and cardiac evaluation for Chihuahuas.

It’s in your best interest to only work with ethical and legitimate breeders. Make sure you clarify that the parent dogs have been tested before looking at the Pug Chihuahua mix puppies.

It’s also recommended that you avoid buying dogs from pet shops or from someone that you met online. These poor canines are probably from puppy mills, so there’s no way to guarantee that they are healthy. You should also never do business with a breeder who tells you they can provide you with a puppy with specific traits. It’s virtually impossible to really design a mixed breed dog so save your money and look elsewhere.

It’s up to you to look for the best Chihuahua Pug mix breeder in your area. To help you along, check out these known breeders –

Greenfield Puppies

Lancaster Puppies

Adoption is also a good way to get the puppy that you want. Check your local shelters or the ASPCA. These groups will be more than happy to render assistance. You should also check out sites like www.adoptapet.com or www.petfinder.com. There are numerous shelters and organizations listed there full of dogs looking for a loving family.

Grooming Your Chihuahua Mixed With Pug

The coat of a Chihuahua mixed with Pug will depend on which parent breed’s genes are dominant. Hence, you can either have a dog with short, coarse, and dense hair like a Pug, or one with a medium length coat that’s silky like a Chihuahua. But with both parent breeds being moderate shedders, expect your Chug to require regular maintenance.

The Chug’s short hair means owners can get away with a weekly brushing at the very least. A twice-daily brushing is ideal though. It will get rid of any dead hair and will keep hair shiny and tangle-free. However, a longer-haired Pug Chihuahua mix might need to be brushed more often, especially during shedding season. It’s a good idea to invest in a slicker and pin brush for your dog.

An occasional bath is also fine with this dog. Again, you might have to bathe your Chug more often when it’s shedding. But if the Pug’s genes are more dominant and your Chihuahua Pug mix has been blessed with wrinkled skin, you might have to clean and dry the folds daily to prevent skinfold dermatitis.

Clean your dog’s ears regularly. You should also make it a habit to check regularly, especially for those with folder ears. You want their ears to be clean and free from moisture to lower the risk of infections.

Both parent breeds usually suffer from dental problems so consistent dental care is necessary for the Chug. Brush its teeth daily and choose treats that also encourage dental hygiene. Pick up some milk bones that also clean teeth or purchase toys that also double as floss.

Pug Mixed With Chihuahua Health Problems

Mixed breed dogs are generally thought to be hardier than purebred ones. While that’s true in some ways, a Pug mixed with Chihuahua sadly has the deck stacked against them. It’s the unfortunate outcome of having parents that are prone to numerous health problems. This has made Chugs susceptible to the following:

• Allergies
• Bladder and kidney stones
• Epilepsy
• Eye diseases like distichia, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or dry eye, ocular injury, progressive retinal atrophy, and protrusion
• Demodectic mange
• Dental problems
• Heart problems
• Legg-Calve-Perthes
• Necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME)
• Obesity
• Patellar luxation
• Portosystemic shunt (PSS)

The Pug is also brachycephalic, a condition that gives it a flat face and makes it vulnerable to breathing issues, the problem with regulating body temperature through panting, and reverse sneezing. Any Pug mix will be brachycephalic to some extent and could inherit some of its parent’s medical issues. What’s more, the Pug is also genetically prone to degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia.

The Chihuahua side of your hybrid puppy is also rife with medical problems, like hydrocephalus. It’s also at higher risk for a collapsed trachea and hypoglycemia.

Chihuahua Crossed With Pug Food Requirements

Owners of a Chihuahua crossed with Pug should monitor their pet’s food intake. Pugs have a tendency to overeat and giving them chow that is rich in fiber may be the best solution to make them eat less and let them think they are eating more! Unlike best dry dog food, these worst dry dog food brands are not likely to give you pooch anything except a few extra pounds!

Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different dietary needs. Explore the importance of age-appropriate nutrition by browsing these handy best puppy food brands and best senior dry dog food guides to make sure the pup is getting all the nutrients they need.

Don’t forget that excess weight can exacerbate its health problems.

The Chihuahua Pug mix should be given a diet created specifically for small breeds such as best dry dog food for small dogs. The size of your furball does matter when it comes to food and, by opting for best large breed dry dog food for a tiny pooch, you risk giving them an inadequate amount of nutrients. High-energy meals with meat as the main ingredient are best. A cup of the premiere, dry dog food is ideal.

Imbalance of protein and fat, as well as vitamins and minerals, can in the long run trigger all sorts of health conditions. Make sure your pet’s nutritional needs are satisfied by adding Nutra Thrive dog food supplement to their diet.

It’s also a good idea to go with hard and dry kibble as it will prevent tartar buildup.

Fortunately, you won’t have any problem looking for healthy food choices for your pet. Here are some of the best brands out in the market today:

1. Wellness Core Dog Food: This premier dog food has a remarkably high protein content that comes from deboned chicken. This dry dog food has been designed by holistic veterinarians and nutritionists who wanted to create the best mean for small breeds. It’s also grain-free and has glucosamine for improved bone and joint health.
2. Dog For Dog Food: This dog food for small dogs is also great for puppies. The kibble is a mix of soft and crunchy pieces that even the pickiest eater will enjoy.
3. Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed: This brand’s chicken and rice mean was developed to provide the perfect nutritional balance for small dogs and puppies. Hill’s dog food doesn’t use any artificial flavors and is free from food coloring and preservatives. It’s rich in vitamins C and E and has strong antioxidant properties. It also has calcium to strengthen your dog’s teeth and bones.

Pug Crossed With Chihuahua Exercise Requirements

A Pug crossed with Chihuahua doesn’t need a lot of exercises. Daily exercise lasting for 30 to 45 minutes is enough to keep your dog healthy. So is a weekly walk of five to six miles since this little dog gets tired easily. The brachycephalic genes it inherited from the Pug also makes it vulnerable to breathing issues due to strenuous activities.

Dog sports that showcase agility and obedience are also good ways to meed the Chug’s physical demands while also providing a way to continue with discipline training. You should also play with your dog for at least half an hour, one to three times a day. Don’t forget to invest in toys that will keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Here are some of the best toys for this breed out in the market today:

• Air Kong Squeaky X-Small Tennis Balls: These bright balls are durable and perfectly fits even the small mouth of a Pug Chihuahua cross. Your dog won’t get tired of this squeaky toy even after hours of playing.
• Tiny Turtle by West Paw Design: No turtle is as cute as this little one. Made from corduroy fabric with a little squeaker inside, its size is ideal for Chug puppies. It’s also sturdy enough to last until your dog becomes an adult.
• Mini Sqwuggie Dog Toy: The best tug toy for toy breeds, the Sqwuggie is colorful, durable, and can even float in water, allowing your pet to play with it anywhere. It has a squeaker to capture the Chug’s attention and is designed specifically to fit small mouths.

Best Dog Food for Chihuahua Pug Mix

Selecting the right nutrition for your Chihuahua Pug Mix is crucial, and a balanced diet tailored to their small size and energy levels is essential. Look for dog foods rich in lean protein, appropriate for small breeds, and fortified with essential nutrients. Here are the top three best dog foods for Chihuahua Pug Mix to ensure their health and well-being.

Chihuahua Pug Training

A lot of small dog owners tend to forego training and socializing their pet. Owners tend to dismiss them as a threat due to their size and lets them exhibit dominant behavior. This eventually leads to “small dog syndrome,” that learned behavior that causes toy breeds and other small statured dogs to become annoying, noisy, and difficult pets.

With a Chihuahua Pug already prone to aggressive tendencies, thanks to its Chihuahua side, owners should take steps to ensure their hybrid pet does not become some diva. In short, behavior that is not acceptable from adult large dogs should not be tolerated in small dogs either.

This mixed breed’s independent streak and stubborness mean it will need an experienced trainer. It will do well with someone who can provide a

Your Pug Chihuahua mix should undergo obedience training and socialization while its still a puppy. Owners should also continue with the training and socialization programs even when their dog becomes an adult to prevent the development of the syndrome.

Thanks to their propensity to please their owners, Chugs are easy to train. But owners should also make sure to assert their dominance and be consistent with the dog’s training.

Here are some interesting tips to consider when training a small dog like the Chug:

• Think and stay positive. The Chihuahua Pug cross is a sensitive dog, so harsh training methods won’t be effective. Always remember that small breeds tend to get scared or startled easily. You’ll garner more results if you opt for a strategy of positive reinforcement. Give your dog small treats and give belly rubs and praise freely.
• Keep it short and sweet. You should also take into consideration your dog’s short attention span. While it will learn easily, it won’t be able to concentrate for long periods. It’s best to keep each training lesson short but fun.
• Stay low. Looming over your small dog while you shout commands will just frighten it. When you start training your Chihuahua Pug mix, make sure you get down on the ground so that you’re almost at its level. It will make you less intimidating and make your dog feel more comfortable and secure. Once your dog has learned some commands and tricks, you can stand and begin training from a higher level.
• Stand your ground. Small dogs get away with a lot of things because of their size. Don’t fall into the mindset that small means poor or docile. Your tiny pet will soon be attempting to dominate you or do things you don’t like, such as jumping on you or the furniture. Stand your ground and stay true to the training. Remember, if you won’t tolerate an action from a big dog, don’t tolerate it from a small dog.
• Housetraining small dogs is different. Crate training is one of the best ways to housetrain your puppy. But don’t forget that the Chug has a smaller bladder. It means it won’t be able to hold it for long periods and they will need to be let out every two to four hours, depending on its age and size. So if you’re planning on going out for several hours, consider using training pads or hiring a pet sitter.

Pug Chihuahua and Families

The Pug Chihuahua can be an awesome companion dog. It loves its human and will try its best to please its owner. However, you should be ready to provide your pet with lots of love and attention. Children should also be taught how to handle this dog properly. As a rule, they have to be careful not to rouse the Chug’s aggressive nature. This means families with very young children might not be a good match for this dog.

A Chihuahua Pug cross is an ideal pet for apartment dwellers, although it will thrive in all types of homes. It has to live indoors as its small stature means it can easily wiggle out of a fence. This dog also prefers warm weather, which is why it loves to snuggle so much. Don’t be surprised to find your Chug hiding among your blankets.

(FAQs) about Chihuahua Pug Mixes:

What is a Chihuahua Pug Mix?

A Chihuahua Pug Mix, often referred to as a “Chug,” is a delightful crossbreed resulting from the mating of a Chihuahua with a Pug. This mix combines the endearing traits of both parent breeds.

What is the size and appearance of Chihuahua Pug Mixes?

Chihuahua Pug Mixes are typically small to medium-sized dogs with a compact and muscular build. They may inherit a combination of features from both the Chihuahua and Pug, including a distinctive face and curled tail.

What is the temperament of Chihuahua Pug Mixes?

Chug mixes are known for their affectionate, playful, and sociable nature. They often exhibit a friendly demeanor, combining the spirited personality of the Chihuahua with the charming qualities of the Pug.

How much exercise do Chihuahua Pug Mixes need?

While they are not extremely high-energy dogs, Chihuahua Pug Mixes benefit from regular exercise to keep them healthy. Daily walks, interactive play, and mental stimulation activities are recommended.

Are Chihuahua Pug Mixes good with children and other pets?

Chug mixes can be good family pets, especially when properly socialized. They are generally good with children, but supervision is recommended due to their small size. Early exposure to other pets is beneficial.

What is the grooming routine for Chihuahua Pug Mixes?

Grooming requirements depend on the coat type inherited from both parent breeds. Regular brushing, nail trimming, and routine grooming tasks such as facial fold cleaning (common in Pugs) are important.

Do Chihuahua Pug Mixes have specific health concerns?

Chihuahua Pug Mixes may inherit health issues from both Chihuahuas and Pugs. Common concerns include respiratory issues (common in brachycephalic breeds), dental problems, and joint conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for preventive care.

How trainable are Chihuahua Pug Mixes?

Chihuahua Pug Mixes are generally intelligent and trainable, but they may have a stubborn streak. Positive reinforcement methods and consistent training contribute to their well-behaved nature.

What is the lifespan of Chihuahua Pug Mixes?

The average lifespan of Chihuahua Pug Mixes is typically around 10 to 14 years, with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention.

What are some considerations for potential Chihuahua Pug Mix owners?

Prospective owners should be prepared for a loving and adaptable companion. Understanding the needs of both parent breeds, including exercise requirements, grooming, and potential health issues, is crucial for providing a suitable and happy home for a Chihuahua Pug Mix.

References:

1. Brocal, J., et al. “C7 Vertebra Homeotic Transformation in Domestic Dogs – Are Pug Dogs Breaking Mammalian Evolutionary Constraints?” Journal of Anatomy, vol. 233, no. 2, 14 May 2018, pp. 255–265., doi:10.1111/joa.12822.
2. Kiviranta, A.-M., et al. “Syringomyelia and Craniocervical Junction Abnormalities in Chihuahuas.” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, vol. 31, no. 6, 11 Sept. 2017, pp. 1771–1781., doi:10.1111/jvim.14826.
3. Nicholas, Anna Katherine. Pug. Kennel Club Books, 2004.
4. Chihuahua. Kennel Club Books Inc., 2010.
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pug
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chihuahua_(dog)