About Chug Dogs

Chugs, sometimes called pugwawas, are a cross breed canine between a pug and a chihuahua. They are not a pure breed, and as such are not held to any particular standard, nor are they accepted in the show ring by the UKC or AKC. While cute, chugs susceptible to a variety of hereditary health issues that can be passed along by either parent. Like any dog, chugs can make great pets and companions, though they're better suited for adults or families with gentle, older children.

  1. Appearance

    • Like their parent breeds, chugs are small, short-coated dogs. Their faces tend to be fairly flat, though with more pointed snouts than your average pug. Size varies greatly, and full-grown dogs can weigh anywhere from six to eighteen pounds. Purebred chihuahuas weigh typically six pounds or less, while pugs weigh between fourteen to eighteen pounds. As a mixed breed, chugs can fall anywhere along this spectrum. While pugs are usually a pale cream with a dark face, chihuahuas can come in any color combination, and as such, chug puppies can end up with all sorts of coat colors. Grooming is simple thanks to their short fur.

    Temperament

    • The temperament of chug puppies is unpredictable, and can resemble that of a pug, a chihuahua or lie somewhere in between. Chihuahuas are lively, active dogs who are typically very alert. Pugs, on the other hand, are generally more laid back and eager to please their owners. All dogs are individuals, and chugs may lie anywhere along this spectrum, from loyal lapdog to active and aloof. As with all small dogs, care must be taken to teach your chug proper boundaries and train it in obedience so that it does not become an annoyance.

    Feeding

    • Chugs can generally get by with minimal exercise, but care should be taken not to overfeed them. Carefully monitor your chug's wait to make sure it does not become obese. Talk to your vet to find out your pet's ideal weight. When searching for a dog food, consider a food formulated especially for small breeds. Look for foods that contain meat as the first ingredient and do not have any artificial color or flavor added to the recipe. Every dog is an individual, so try a variety of foods until you find one of good quality that your pet chug enjoys.

    Health Issues

    • Take your chug to the vet regularly to watch for any health issues. Both pugs and chihuahuas are prone to luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap - or patella - slips out of place. Pugs in particular, and flat-faced chugs, are prone to breathing problems, snorting and wheezing. Both pugs and chihuahuas have small, delicate throats and should be walked on harness rather than leash, both to protect their throats and to avoid exacerbating any breathing problems. With their small heads and potentially short snouts, chugs may also suffer from numerous tooth-related issues like overcrowding which increases the likelihood of food getting trapped between the teeth. Offer dental cleaning teeth, brush your dog's teeth and consider taking your chug in for a professional tooth cleaning at the veterinarian's office.