A Puggle Fact Sheet

By Christy Taylor

Puggles are a fairly recent breed of designer dogs. There is a huge amount of material available on them on the internet. What are given here are brief facts about the breed which you can use to search for more information.

• ORIGIN: The Puggle is a cross breed of a Beagle and a Pug

• SIZE: An adult Puggle will stand about 15 to 20 inches high at the shoulder and weigh between 15 to 30 pounds.

• CLASSIFICATION: Because of their small size and calm demeanor they are classified as lap dogs.

• REGISTRATION: Because of their cross breed or Hybrid status, they are not recognized by any of the major kennel clubs in the country. Mixed Breed Dog Clubs do offer registration for Puggles.

• APPEARANCE: While the fawn is the most common color for Puggles, black and multicolored dogs are frequently to be seen. The color of the dog in no way reflects up its health. Being a recently developed breed, their appearance will vary to some extent depending on what physical characteristics they inherit. They have a tail similar to that of a Beagle but it tends to be curly, like that of a Pug. Puggle jaws show an under bite which they have inherited from the Pug.

• TEMPERAMENT: Puggles have the mild mannered playful qualities of the Pug along with the more energetic nature of the Beagle. They are excellent apartment dogs. They retain the friendly and easy going nature of both the beagle and the Pug. Loyal, patient and calm, they are excellent with children. Very sociable, they get along well with strangers and usually behave well in new surroundings. Puggles have inherited the hunting instincts of the Beagle and are great backyard hunters, and enjoy stalking and chasing squirrels and other intruders into their yards.

• HEALTH: Their Beagle characteristics like a longer more well defined muzzle means they do not suffer from the respiratory problems of Pugs. Their Beagle lineage also gives them a stronger body frame which means they are not prone to the joint and skin problems that Pugs face. They are active dogs and need regular walks. Their beagle blood gives them a love of running, but this should be controlled in hot weather since their smaller nasal cavities, inherited from the Pug, cause them the get out of breath very easily. Beyond this, general health precautions and regular immunizations are all that is required.

• MAINTENANCE: Puggles are not high maintenance dogs. Regular bathing, tooth brushing, ear cleaning and nail clipping is all the regular looking after they need, besides of course, the regular check ups at the vet. Although they have short coats, they tend to shed, especially during winter, so regular brushing with a hair removing brush is required.

• EXERCISE: Their beagle blood makes the Puggle an active, but not over active dog. Regular play around the house and a brisk walk or two every day will take care of the Puggle's exercise needs.

Christy Taylor, author, is a breeder of Puggles. She also is the proud owner of her very own Puggles. Learn more about Puggles by visiting her website at http://www.pugglehugs.com