The Chihuahua Pug, also popularly known as the Chug, is one of the most interesting mixed breed dogs out there. It is not a surprise when you have a Chihuahua mixed pug, that the result is a clownish and entertaining dog. There are no records of the origins of the dog breed, but we can safely assume the history doesn’t date back more than 20 years.
Designer dog breeds began gaining popularity in the 1990s and 2000s. Since then, we have seen many different crossbreeds. And many of them include a Chihuahua to be honest.
And while the mixed breed doesn’t have a long history, its parent breeds have. In fact, both the Chihuahua parent and Pug parent have a history dating back more than 2,000 years.
Pugs, for example, were favored companions of Chinese royalty. Raised by monks in monasteries and then spread across Europe, Pugs have been loyal companions for ages. Chihuahuas, on the other hand, descend from Mexico.
Meet The Breed
The Chug dog breed is a cross between a Chihuahua parent and a Pug parent. The result is a playful, loyal, and small dog.
This Pug Chihuahua mix has inherited the best traits of both loving parent breeds. You can find it by other names like Pugwawa, Pughuahua, and Chihuahua Pug Mix. There are plenty of dogs like this available for adoption. Before trying to get one from a breeder, we always suggest checking the local shelter.
Despite their small stature, these dogs have big personalities. They think of themselves as large dogs and will act as such. But that is something they inherit from their Chihuahua parent.
Do you want to know more about this designer breed? Let’s take a look.
Meet The Parents
Whenever we are talking about a hybrid dog breed, we have to begin with its parents. That is the case with the Chihuahua Pug mix as well. Since it is a relatively new breed, there is not much information about it. We haven’t had many lineages and puppies. So, the best way to tell what you can expect from your designer dog is to look at its parents.
In most cases, crossbreeds inherit some personality traits of both parents. Such is the case here as well. When you look at the parents’ personality traits, you can understand what your dog will look and act like.
Chihuahua
First, let’s talk about the Chihuahua parent. Famous for their unique and distinct personality traits, Chihuahuas are known as the world’s smallest dog.
Yet, despite being a small dog, the Chihuahua is one of the most fierce dogs around. These dogs do not back down from anything. This might surprise you, but a Chihuahua is a better guard dog than a Labrador Retriever.
That being said, let’s take a look at the common personality traits of the breed:
- Fearless and confident, they are some of the boldest dogs in the world. No matter their size, Chihuahuas exhibit a big dog attitude and approach
- They form strong bonds with their owners and can be incredibly loyal
- They are highly alert and make great watchdogs. Chihuahuas are quick to detect any changes in the environment
- Chihuahuas have a strong desire for human affection and attention. These dogs enjoy being close to their pet parents
- Territorial, they will exhibit guarding behaviors, especially about their owners and living space
- Playful and energetic, Chihuahuas enjoy interactive playtime. They can be quite entertaining with their antics
- Naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings
- Famous for their tendency to bark and communicate with barking
- While they love companionship, they also value their independence
- Sensitive to their environment
- Can exhibit stubborn behavior
Pug
Arguably one of the funniest and most entertaining dog breeds around, Pugs have been called the clowns of the canine world. Their charming and distinctive personality will win over any dog owner. Yes, there might be differences between individual dogs.
Yet, generally, all Pugs are the same. This brachycephalic breed doesn’t live a long life because of its health issues. Yet, the little time it has on Earth will make it the most entertaining for any owner.
Here are some common personality traits of the Pug dog breed.
- These puppies have a playful and fun-loving nature and enjoy interactive playtime with their parents
- Famous for their affectionate and loving demeanor, they will form an amazing bond with their owners
- They tend to be sociable and friendly dogs and get along with other dogs, people, and animals
- Since they thrive on human interaction, they are attention seekers. These dogs enjoy being the center of attention
- Adaptable to different living situations, whether it is a smaller home or a larger apartment. As long as they are with their parents, they do not mind the environment
- Pugs have a gentle nature and kind disposition
- They have a laid-back and easygoing attitude and are not overly energetic
- They have a strong desire to please their owners and become quite attached to them
- While they are intelligent, sometimes they do exhibit a stubborn streak
Appearance
Now let’s talk about one of the most interesting aspects of this puppy. We have two parents that have completely different coats. For one, the Pug has wrinkles, while Chihuahuas have a smooth coat. Then, you have the eyes, the expressive ones of the Chihuahua, with the small round eyes of the Pug. Combine the two and you have a dog that looks like it came out of a cartoon.
The Chug puppy is a small dog, a little bit bigger than the Chihuahua parent. Yet, they still stand between 6 and 12 inches and weigh between 10 and 20 pounds.
Similar to all designer breeds, there is no standard set by The American Kennel Club. We cannot tell for certain how big a Chug puppy will grow.
When it comes to coat color, there is no guarantee as well. Patterns will likely be diverse, with coats that can range from a single color to a tricolor. In between, we have sable, brindle, black, tan, cream, and more.
In some cases, this puppy might have a long coat as well, similar to its Chihuahua parent.
Temperament
The temperament aspect is another interesting one. Why? Because again, we have dogs on the opposite side of the spectrum. Pugs are calm and peaceful, while Chihuahuas are protective, barky, and noisy. While Pugs love to chill around all day long and perform some clownish tricks in between, Chihuahuas will guard the property and alert you of any intruder.
Keep in mind that the personality of your little dog will depend on whether your puppy inherits more traits from the Chihuahua or the Pug parent. If he is more like the Pug, he will be a sweet comedian. Or he can be a bit imperious like the Chihuahua.
One thing is certain. You will have a feisty loyal family pet. These puppies attach themselves to one member of the household. The bad news is they can become territorial over that person. But with the right training methods, more on this later, you can solve the problem.
These puppies thrive with couples and families with older children. Because of their small size, they are not suitable for households with babies and little children.
While friendly with other pets, Chihuahua Pug mixes need a bit of socialization. It is all because of the Chihuahua genetics. Chi dogs are not as friendly towards strangers and other animals. Yet, thanks to the mixture of Pug genetics, this puppy is a bit friendlier.
Training
As we said before, training is quite important when owning a Chihuahua Pug Mix. Why? Because there are a couple of issues you need to address. First and foremost, socialization. These dogs need plenty of socialization to prevent their territorial behavior.
With proper socialization, your small-breed dog will be friendly with other animals and people. The good news is that they will love to train with you, their favorite person. These dogs form a bond with their owners and love to interact with them.
The downside is they can be a bit strong-willed and stubborn. Teaching basic commands is a bit more challenging than with other dogs, like German Shepherd or Golden Retriever, for example.
The important thing to note is that these dogs have a short attention span. So, make sure to train in short bursts of five to ten minutes. Anything more and it will become more of an exhaustion than training.
Exercise Needs
Despite their small frame, these dogs have quite a lot of energy. The good news is they burn it off quickly and easily. Generally speaking, they need between 30 and 45 minutes of exercise per day.
You can divide that into two or three 10 to 15-minute intervals. Do some training and mental stimulation exercises at home, and you are good to go.
Just be careful. These dogs, same as their Pug parent, have a short snout. They are a brachycephalic breed. Be careful not to overexert your dog because it might have trouble breathing.
Health
There are a couple of issues you need to be careful with your Chug dog. First and foremost, brachycephalic breeds are prone to breathing issues. They also have eye problems and neurological issues. All of these stem from their Pug heritage and genetics.
Another challenge with Pugs and their mixes is obesity and weight gain. While they do have high energy levels, these dogs love to eat. And they cannot be allowed to eat as much as they want.
Because they are prone to respiratory issues, these dogs are suitable for homes in moderate climates. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, make sure to protect your puppy. In the winter, that means wearing a coat or sweater. And in the summer, provide plenty of cool fresh water.
Grooming
Keeping your Chug puppy healthy is quite important and challenging. Because these dogs are brachycephalic, you need to wipe their wrinkles daily. Otherwise, they are prone to skin infections. Also, check the ears for debris and pests.
Speaking of brushing, it depends on whether you will have a mixed breed with a short coat or a long coat.
Generally speaking, brushing your dog once per week should be enough.
Why Shouldn’t You Get One?
- There are plenty of health risks and challenges
- These dogs are prone to the small dog syndrome and can be quite noisy and barking
- They do not do well in extreme temperatures
Why Should You Get One?
- They can adapt to living in small apartments
- They give plenty of love and affection
- A low-maintenance pet
