The History of Puggles

A puggle is a hybrid breed of dog. It is the result of crossbreeding a pug and a beagle. They are often referred to as "designer dogs" and are the latest rage in pets for some Hollywood celebrities. Puggles are excellent companions and are gentle with children.

  1. History

    • A Wisconsin breeder named Wallace Havens bred the first puggle in the 1990s. He also coined the name "puggle" and was the first to register the breed with the American Canine Hybrid Club, an organization that tracks new hybrids of dogs. By 2000, puggles were being sold commercially to pet owners wanting to own a different, distinctive dog.

    Personality

    • A puggle brings the better of two dog breeds to life. It enjoys family life, is very intelligent and is a quick learner. A puggle is also gentle and playful. This breed does best in an attentive, nurturing environment.

    Traits

    • Puggle puppies are shorthaired with smooth, shiny coats. They are typically tan or a rich brown. Most have markings resembling a "mask" on their wrinkly faces. Their bodies are stocky with short legs. Puggles grow up to 15 inches tall. As an adult, their weight will range from 13 to 30 pounds.

    Cost

    • Because of the unique nature of the puggle, the price for a newly born puppy from a breeder is between $250 and $900 per pup. Older puggles can also be found in rescue shelters.

    Care

    • This hybrid is best suited for life indoors and can even adapt to a small apartment. It should be walked a few times a day for at least 15 minutes at a time. A puggle is notoriously stubborn but can be trained with some perseverance. Feeding requirements include two small meals a day and plenty of water. Puggles are prone to obesity, so a diet featuring a high-quality premium dog food is recommended.

    Future

    • The future may not be as bright for the puggle as it is for other traditional breeds. For many misguided pet owners, even the so-called "designer dog" goes out of style. More and more puggles are being sent to shelters or placed in rescue facilities because their owners have lost interest in the fad of owning a hybrid dog.