Puggles tend to be between 15–35 pounds and stand 15–20 inches at the shoulders. They are classified as a lap dog because of their relatively small size and demanor. While colors vary, the vast majority are fawn colored. There are also completely black as well as multicolored (like mixes of black and brown) puggles. There are advantages for the hybrid breed. For instance, while pugs tend to have pushed in faces, puggles do not. This reduces the risk of the respiratory problems that are associated with pugs.
As with most designer breeds, puggles inherit differing and unpredictable ratios of traits between the beagle and the pug, their appearances may vary. Puggles have a tail the length of a beagle, but it tends to be curled like that of a pug. They also often display an underbite, a trait they inherit from their Pug parent.
Puggles are hybrid/designer breed dogs, and are not eligible for registration with any major kennel club. The AKC, the UKC, the NKC, the CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) and Continental Kennel Club organizations do not recognize puggles as a breed. Mixed Breed Dog Clubs of America offers a registry for sterile puggles.
Puggles tend to exhibit high levels of athleticism, and enjoy field trials, agility trials and obedience. Some canine clubs offer these events to mixed and hybrid breed dogs. Puggles take after their purebred relatives when it comes to participation in dog shows, and they have the reputation of being relatively easy to train.
It has been observed that puggles most closely resemble neither pugs nor beagles amongst purebred dogs. With short, broad muzzles, a fawn, shorthaired body, and drooping ears, the puggle closely resembles a small version of the Old English Mastiff. Although only one-fifth of the mastiff's size, the puggle looks very much like a miniature mastiff both in appearance and behavior.
Puggle Health
Because of their longer legs, eye socket size, and less pronounced wrinkles, puggles often avoid many difficulties with eyes, joints, and skin wrinkles common to pugs. While pugs are particularly susceptible to heat stroke, the longer nasal cavity of the puggle makes the breed more tolerant to the heat, and less likely to overheat while running in the summer. Conversely, their nasal cavities are likely to be shorter and less efficient than those of beagles, which could be a problem if the dog also inherited the beagle's propensity to run; especially for long periods. There is currently no consensus as to whether or not puggles are predisposed to the same health risks of purebred beagles.
Caring for your Puggle
Puggles relatively easy to care for and are generally low-maintenance dogs. They need occasional baths, nail clippings, tooth brushings, and ear cleanings. Puggles are not hypoallergenic, as neither a Beagle nor a Pug are hypoallergenic. Puggles shed, so to help prevent excessive fur cleanup, it is recommended to occasionally brush a Puggle with a fur-removing brush. Puggles actually require a great deal of fur cleanup in the winter if they are kept inside because of the cold. The nails of Puggles grow particularly long if an owner does not walk them often.
Temperament and Training
As pets, puggles have the mild mannered yet playful "lap dog" qualities often associated with pugs, mixed with the more energetic tendencies typical of the hunting qualities of a beagle. Puggles are mid-sized dogs that make excellent house pets, and many puggle owners testify to their winning personality as one of their strongest points.
Puggles tend to be affectionate, and are known for their ability to get along well with children. They retain the friendly, laid-back disposition of both breeds, but while their size makes them suitable for apartment residents, they need a bit more exercise and attention than some traditional apartment dogs (pugs included). Puggles vary widely in how often they bark. Some inherit the odd, nasal baying of beagles - a mix of a baying hound and the cooing of a pigeon. Many puggles are barely vocal at all.
Inheriting the hunting instincts of beagles, Puggles often display a propensity to chase squirrels, rabbits, and other backyard intruders. These dogs also may exhibit a tendency to stalk such prey.
As an active dog, you will need to put in some quality time training your Puggle. Puggles tend to be relatively easy to train, but training should not be taken lightly. Training should start as early as you bring them home from the litter, at six to eight weeks of age. A well trained dog is much easier to care for and owners are able to keep their energy focused on desirable behaviors. An un-trained puggle is a puggle getting into lots of trouble.
