Have you decided to adopt small dogs but can’t tell what breed to have? You have two breeds for that: pug and puggle. But which dog breeds best suits you? If you have no idea about it, you’re in the right spot since we are going to talk about it.
We are going to discuss important information about these two small dog breeds, so you can pick the best one for you. Have a great time reading through this pug comparison article and hope you can decide after reading it.
Table of Contents
Comparison Highlights
Pugs
Origin: China
Group: Companion dog
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 13-20 lbs
Temperament: Courageous, friendly, playful, and loyal
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Energy: Mid-range
Price: $1,000 and higher (pug puppies are more expensive)
Other Names: Dutch bulldog, Mops, Carlin, Chinese Pug, Dutch Mastiff, Mini Mastiff
Hair coat: Fair or fine
Shedding: Higher than average
Bath and Grooming: Every 3-4 weeks
Intelligence and trainability: Low to average
Sensitivity and Playfulness: Average
Affection and Social Requirements: High socialization needs and average affection level
Watchdog trait: Average
Mouthy trait: Lower to average level
Biting Force: 100-200 PSI
Adaptability: High
Left Alone: Prone to anxiety when left alone
Puggle
Origin: US
Group: Designer dogs
Height: 10-15 inches
Weight: 15-40 lbs
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, loyal
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Energy: Higher than average
Price: $800-$2,000
Other Names: Baby echidna
Hair coat: Straight and fine
Shedding: Sheds heavily
Bath and Grooming: Every 4-6 weeks
Intelligence and trainability: Low to average
Sensitivity and Playfulness: Mid-level
Affection and Social Requirements: Average level
Watchdog trait: Average level
Mouthy trait: Average
Biting Force: 100-200 PSI
Adaptability: High
Left Alone: More prone to anxiety than pugs
Origin
Pugs
The origin of pugs is in China and it is the companion dog of Chinese Emperors. This dog breed is typically charming and loving, but slightly mischievous. The Latin motto of pugs is “multum in parvo”, which means having a small muscular build.
Whether purebred pugs or mixed breed, they all have expressive faces. Their large sparkling eyes and wrinkled eyebrows say it all. But they are highly trainable, so they become well socialized with children and stranger friendly dogs.
Puggle
For puggle, they originate in the US and under the group of designer dogs. A puggle breed is a pug beagle mix. Because of that, it has a longer body and smout than pugs. A pug beagle mix is also famous in the US and other countries because of their adorable nature.
A pug beagle mix is popular because of their adorable loving behavior and looks. Despite their intelligence and friendly trait, puggles tend to bark frequently. Also, it’s not their nature to directly please their owner during training.
Some pug beagle mix can be first or second generation. This can impact purity and price of the pup you are buying from breeders. Many owners want those first generation pug beagle mix due to purity. Still, that depends on your preference.
Puggle vs Pug Appearance
There are similarities in the physical appearance of these two dog breeds. That’s because puggle is an intentional cross breeding of a purebred pug and purebred beagle. The three physical traits that can be easily seen for these toy dogs are their large eyes, short coats, and wrinkled face.
Looking at puggle puppies, they are taller and heavier than pugs because of the beagle genes they have. Because of this, they have a longer body and taller stature. They have a longer thigh bone
Their nose is longer than pugs, so they have an easier breathing process. This helps puggles avoid breathing problems while pugs tend to suffer this one due to their crumped nose.
Proper breathing is one of the health problems you need to look out for Dutch bulldogs. Most pugs admitted to vet clinics have faced respiratory problems, and so they need immediate medical attention.
In terms of coat color, pugs have more consistency than puggles. The former is mostly tan in color with a pinch of black or white. In contrast, the latter is more varied, where their hair colors are fawn, black, or tan brown.
Overall, the physical appearance of a puggle puppy is far from his pug parents. Nevertheless, you can still see some traits of a pug in them.
Puggle vs Pug Temperament
In general, these two are good dogs and excellent family members. Both are popular pets in the US, and they are incredibly sweet for the human family. They have expressive eyes and floppy ears that make these dogs adorable. Both the pug and the puggle are loving companions, and you can choose any of them as your pet.
Between these two, the pug is mort subtle and contented with a simple home as long as they receive love and care. They want a simple happy life with their owners. Because of their versatile nature, they can easily adapt to any current situation inside the house. Most of the time, they like to sit lazily on the couch. Still, they also want to play with their owners.
In contrast, pocket puggles or puggle are very energetic than pugs. They love to run and bark in the house. Because of that, they love the outdoors and their natural hunting traits is one culprit for that. As a puggle owner, you need to have the time to play with them. Constant activity helps them become a healthy dog.
Whether they are active or not, these toy breeds are friendly, loving, and sociable. But you have to watch out for your pocket puggle’s stubbornness.
Puggle vs Pug Exercise Needs
Whether it’s your first puggle or pug, they both require exercise. This is to keep them healthy and promote mental stimulation. Unhealthy dogs are a result of poor nutrition and lack of movement, so you need to let your designer dog or companion go outside.
A pug dog likes to lie lazily on the couch, but you must not allow that. Letting them in that position can weaken their rear legs and hip joint. This is true for most dogs and for any different breed. Fortunately, it won’t be hard for you to play with your pugs. Just bring their toy and spend a few minutes to an hour with them.
On the other hand, puggles are more energetic, so they love the outdoor. Most puggle owners don’t have a hard time making their dogs play and run. This cross breed got its high energy from its beagle parent. Expect more time playing and walking with your puggle toy breed outside. For this dog, their parent breeds are a pug and the beagle parents. But the latter has more dominance in terms of their energy level.
When you plan to walk them outside, don’t use a standard collar as it can choke them. Unlike german shepherds, these breeds have a brachycephalic face, so they are prone to breathing problems. The best you can use are those collars that wrap around their body. These collars also help you efficiently control their body movement.
Who needs more exercise? Young or Old Dogs?
Young ones need more exercise, or they can do more since they have more energy than senior dogs. You need to let your pup boost our their energy since it also helps them grow. This also contributes to their bone and muscle development.
For senior dogs, giving them a 15 to 30 minute walk is enough. That’s because they get tired easily and so you need to give them some rest. Letting them move is still important to avoid joint problems and muscle sores.
Besides walking, you can also do hiking and swimming for your dogs. This helps their heart and lungs to work well. You also help them avoid getting obese, preventing heart and lung problems.
Puggle vs Pug Health
Neither the pug nor puggle can escape respiratory health problems because of their brachycephalic face. To keep their lungs working well, here are some things you can do:
- Body straps for walking them outside
- Watch out for their weight and avoid making them obese. These very good dogs will be put at a higher risk if they are overweight.
- Let them stay in a cool place that’s free from dust.
- Don’t expose them to too much moisture or humidity
In terms of lifespan, pugs have an average life of twelve to fifteen years while puggles have ten to fifteen. To ensure your pet lives longer, have them checked by your local vet for any serious diseases like hip dysplasia and Cherry eye.
Stenotic Nares
This is also called “pinched nostrils” which can be inborn for these dog breeds. This is more common to pugs since they have a short muzzle. For puggles, they have a longer one, so they are less prone to this. One evident sign that your toy breed is having this condition is when they make noise upon breathing.
When left untreated, this can lead to respiratory problems. To prevent worsening, you must not allow your dog to be obese. Observe their calorie intake and let them have regular exercise.
Eye Conditions
These dogs are also prone to eye concerns like Cherry Eye, dryness of the eye, and corneal ulcers. That being said, you need to let their eyes be periodically checked by a vet. They can give you something that can keep their eyes moisturized and clean.
Cherry eye happens when the third eyelid bloats up. It seems like there is an inflamed muscle growing at the inner section of the eyelid. To resolve this concern, your dog must undergo surgery.
Canine Hip dysplasia (CHD)
This health concern is hereditary for both breeds. That’s because of their thigh bone structure not properly fitting into the hip joint. When they are young, this concern won’t be noticeable, but as they age it does. Both pocket puggle and purebred pug are susceptible to hip dysplasia.
As they age, the pain becomes more evident and so you need to have them x-rayed. This health issue speeds up when your puggle puppy and pug gains weight easily. You need to watch for their calorie intake to avoid obesity.
Epilepsy
Pugs and puggles also suffer from hereditary epilepsy. It’s more common for the latter since it is passed from their Beagle parent dogs. Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common one for dogs. There is a treatment for this one and your vet can prescribe that. For pugs, seizures can be treated using Phenobarbital.
Besides genetics, these seizures happen due to other diseases like brain tumors, kidney or liver disease. When your dogs have idiopathic epilepsy, their lifespan is expected to be within two to three years. But there is still a chance to make them live longer with proper nutrition and medication.
Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE)
This disease is common to most designer dogs and pugs. It is hereditary and so you need to do DNA testing on your toy breed before buying one from a pet store. Pug dog encephalitis is when your dog’s brain is inflamed. This is a deadly health concern and around 1.2 percent of toy breeds get this disease.
Here are some common symptoms for PDE:
- Ataxia or lack of mind and body coordination
- Blurry vision
- Depression
- Seizures
- Inability to walk properly
PDE is mostly genetic, so it’s hard to prevent one from coming to your dog breeds. The average life of small dogs with PDE is around five years.
Patellar Luxation
This joint condition is common to small dogs like your pug and puggle. This is also called “slipped stifles” and it happens when there is misalignment with your dogs’ knee cap, calf, and thigh bone. The general result is an abnormal walking movement. It seems like your dog hops or skips when they are walking.
There are different grade levels for the intensity of patellar luxation. But when you let this linger, it can lead to arthritis until such time that your dog can no longer walk. Oftentimes, surgery is needed to resolve this condition.
Hypothyroidism
Besides joint pains, thyroid concerns are also evident among dogs. This happens when your dog’s thyroid hormones are low. Here are the common signs of hypothyroidism:
- Overweight
- Infertility
- Slow brain function
- Lethargy or lack of enthusiasm and energy
- Coat becomes brittle
Luckily, this health condition is treatable with proper medication. You need to go to your local vet to get a prescribed medicine for your pug or puggle. Once your dog’s thyroid hormone comes back to normal, they can live happily again.
Puggle vs Pug Care
When it comes to dog care needs, puggles can be tougher than pugs. Both breeds are people friendly and low maintenance. They are good dogs for indoors, very good if you are living in apartments and condos. You can let them stay inside for hours, but with little exercise to keep them active and healthy.
Pugs do not bark as often as puggles. The latter is also more stubborn, so you need to exert more effort to train them. Both dogs respond well to positive training like giving them treats when they accomplish a task.
Other positive reinforcements you can give are praise and playing with them. Be sure to spend some 15 to 30 minutes walking or exercising with your dogs. These toy breeds are smart, so they can learn new tricks easily. Just have enough patience since all dogs can be stubborn at times.
Feeding and Nutrition
Every dog breed has its respective diet that is necessary for its growth. Looking at the body size of these two breeds, puggle has a higher food requirement than pugs. On average, a puggle eats 1.5 cups of dog food daily. You can divide this into two meals. In contrast, a pug needs 1/2 cup twice daily.
All dogs require a balanced diet of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to maintain and achieve a healthy life. However, the amounts of each nutrient vary depending on the age and size of your dog.
In terms of food type, you can basically give them any kind as long as it’s approved by the vet. There are three types of dog food you can give to these toy breeds: commercial dry, wet, and home-cooked food. There’s no standard type for your choice since it depends on what your dog has taken from the start. If you started feeding them with homemade food, then they will be used to that. The same thing goes for commercial dry or wet dog foods.
The amount of food given to your pugs and puggles also depends on their age. For instance, a pug that is 3-6 months old needs 1/3 cup of food while a five year old need half a cup. In feeding your pet, make sure to observe their diet to avoid making them obese. When they are overweight, it can hamper their breathing.
If you are planning to give homemade food for your dog, here are some ideas:
- Protein: chicken, lamb, beef, turkey
- Carbohydrates: Potato, pasta, white rice, brown rice, and oatmeal
- Vegetables: carrots, spinach, squash, celery, corn, potato
- Calcium: milk, cottage cheese, and yogurt
Coat, Bath, and Grooming
Both these small dogs have short coats, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need grooming. Puggles have two layer coats, the shorter ones underneath while the long coat is on top. They got this trait from their Beagle parents. In contrast, pugs have a smooth short coat.
In terms of grooming and bath, pugs needed to be bathed every 3 to 4 weeks while puggles every 4-6 weeks. The latter shed more than the former, a thing you need to keep in mind before getting it. Brushing them weekly or daily is most fine, and it helps maintain their smooth fine fur.
Because they have wrinkled faces, you need to wipe those hidden areas to avoid skin irritation. This is done for both breeds. Also, this is to protect their bulging eyes from infection when bacteria or fleas are growing underneath those wrinkles.
AKC Registered
A pug puppy that is purebred can be registered into the American Kennel Club (AKC). But for a puggle breed, it cannot be since it’s a mixed breed of beagle and pug. But you can register your puggle with the American Canine Hybrid Club.
If you are buying from a puppy mill, you can ask assistance from them to register your purebred dogs for AKC. Nevertheless, mixed breeds are still great dogs and it doesn’t make them less than purebred ones. This matter is just critical for people who are very particular with dog breeds.
Puggle vs Pug Puppy Price
There are various factors influencing the price of a pug or puggle. If you want to get a puppy from any of these dog breeds, the cheapest way is to adopt one from an animal rescue group. But here are some factors affecting puppy price:
- Bloodline of the dog
- Breeder
- Location
- Age and gender
- Color
- AKC registration
Average Price Pug Puppy
The running cost to buy a pug puppy ranges between $800 to $1500. Some breeders charge higher than $1500 but these will be coming from champion bloodlines that are frequently winning contests. If you buy those for family pets only, then you can expect lesser than $1500.
Make sure to buy from trusted breeders when you plan to purchase those from champion bloodlines. Check their papers that prove their claims. To ensure you are buying high quality pups from champions, you can buy from those breeders accredited by the American Canine Hybrid Club.
Compared to the price of adult pugs, pug puppies are more expensive. The price of the former falls between $200 to $500.
Price Based on Pug Color
In terms of color, black pugs are the cheapest. Their average price is between $500 to $800. The most expensive pug color is blue. That’s because they are difficult to breed and the color is very rare. Its running price is between $2,000 to $3,500. Merle pugs have the highest price at $3,800.
Fawns are the most common pug breed you’ll see in most homes. Their average price is $1,000 to $1,500. Brindle pugs slightly cost higher at $2,000 maximum. If you want white pugs, their price is $1,750.
Pug Price Per State
There is also a price variation for pug puppies per state. Before thinking of buying one from a state because it’s cheaper, think about your logistics and other factors. You might end up spending more since you were not able to look into other factors.
Here are the estimated prices of pug pups in some states:
- Pennsylvania: $950 to $4,000
- Virginia: $1,500 to $3,250
- Texas: $1,500 to $1,800
- Georgia: $1,500 to $3,000
- North Carolina: $1,600 to $3,000
Average Price Puggle Puppy
This designer dog does not fall far from the average price of pugs. The running price of puggle from reputable breeders is between $400 to $2,000. Just like any other dog breed, there are factors influencing its price. These variables are color, vet care, purity, location, and breeder.
Among these factors, purity, vet care, and breeder have the biggest impact on puggle price. You can expect a higher price for first generation puggles. If you go for a second generation, that might be cheaper than the former.
Vet Care Affecting Puggle Price
Veterinary care is also an essential factor to consider when buying puggles since they have a more sensitive condition than larger dogs. When your puggle has hip dysplasia, you need to send them to the vet clinic right away. That’s to prevent worsening the condition. When you don’t treat hip dysplasia immediately, it can lead to permanent walking disability.
Other medical fees you need to spend for your puggle puppies are the following:
- Spaying
- Vaccinations
- DNA testing
- Heartworm tests
- Vitamins
Is A Female Puggle More Expensive than Males
There is a continued debate on this, whether it’s a male or female puggle or pug. Based on surveys, male puggles or dogs are more expensive than female counterparts. This is due for the following reasons:
#1 Males Can Compete in Shows All the Time
Female puggles and other dogs bleed, making them unable to compete in rings and other dog competitions. That means you can join more shows and have a higher chance of winning several dog sports. This is a good revenue stream for you or any dog breeder.
#2 Unlimited Breeding Capacity
Your male puggle can produce lots of semen giving you unlimited potential to produce litter. While producing more litters, your male puggle can still join and win dog shows. That gives you dual benefits that generates more revenue.
Because of these two reasons, male puggles or other dogs are more expensive than female ones.
Puggle vs Pug Training
Pug Training
These toy breeds are intelligent and stranger friendly dogs. Like any dog breed, it takes time for you to train either one of them. That is a hard fact for most owners, yet that won’t be difficult for these breeds.
Both dogs take some time for you to get their obedience. Between these two, pugs are easier to train since they are not as stubborn as puggles. The latter got its stubbornness from its beagle parent breed. Pugs like to please their owner, so you can use that to your advantage. But use positive reinforcement since they are emotionally sensitive.
Pugs tend to get easily sad when you hurt their feelings. Making them sad is the last thing you would want to do to them. Because they are clingy to their owners, it’s best that you start training them early. Use treats as a reward when they successfully accomplish a task. But be sure to hide your treats well since their mischief trait can be challenging. They are smart and so they can easily find where you hid them.
Here are some tips for training your goofy pugs:
- Early training
- Let them socialize with family and people early
- Set a constant rule for your pug
- Identify their favorite toy or treat and use that for developing obedience
Puggle Training
Just like a pug, a puggle can be stubborn and mischievous as well. But this cross breed is loving and adorable. They require moderate-level of training to hone their obedience. Because they are intelligent, you need to be friendly yet consistent with your approach. Here are some training tips for your puggle:
- Start with basic commands like sit and stay. Use treat to reward them if they successfully obey your command.
- Train them to come to you by calling their name
- Crate train them by letting the door open and allowing them to go inside. After, close the door and let them stay inside for a few minutes. Praise them when they don’t cry and then let them out. Lengthen the time for keeping them inside the crate through time.
- Avoid shouting at them when they poop or urinate at the wrong spot
- Start with short training sessions and then insert play time to make it fun. By doing this, you are preventing them from being stubborn because they are having fun during their training.
Puggle vs Pug Play and Toy
Both of these breeds like to play and have fun. That’s why you need to mix play and training to avoid boring them. That way, you are also preventing them from being stubborn.
Pug Toys and Fun Activities
Pugs are usually a fan of chewable toys that has flavor. They also love those that make noise when being squished or bitten. You can use this idea in easily commanding them to learn new tricks. For instance, you can use frisbee or bouncing ball. You can let them learn fetch and retrieve in a fun manner using these toys.
Here are some tips for choosing the right toy for your pugs:
- Pick according to age. If your pug is still young (less than nine months), choose a soft rubber toy since their teeth are still growing.
- Pick the right toy size that they cannot swallow it.
- Pick a durable and easy to clean toy
- Choose a scent or flavor that your pug wants to bite
- Ensure the toy does not contain toxic compounds that can poison your dog
Fun Activities for your Pugs and Puggles
Keeping your toy breeds active and healthy is important. It helps them shed calories while improving their physical conditions. Here are some fun activities you can do with your dog.
- 15 minutes of walking and sniffing outside
- 10 minutes of fetch game
- Playing tug of war
- Letting them find something using its scent. This game boosts their mental capacity and smell.
- Games to test their agility like jumps, weave, and tunnels
Puggle Toys and Activities
Unlike your pug, a puggle is not meant to bite on things, yet you can use their favorite toy to have a chase game with them. Puggles are more energetic than pugs, and so you need to use that high energy using this chase game.
You can use a strong rope and then tie their favorite toy at one end. Make sure to excite them for the game, so they are eager to run with you. These dogs are fun of the outdoor. Allocate time to play with them outside your house or in nature parks.
Throwing frisbee or a bouncy ball also works for them. They will like to chase, chew, and give this toy back to you.
Fun Facts About Pugs and Puggles
Before we end this article, let’s give you some interesting facts about these dogs. Both are naturally adorable and fun family member, so you can choose either one of them. In terms of health, they require more care than large dogs. But these small breeds can make your day and take that stress away.
Pug Fun Facts
- They are intended to be the lap dogs for Chinese royalties.
- Their wrinkles are natural and you need to wipe them twice or thrice daily.
- Pugs are the official pet of the House of Orange since a pug named “Pompey” saved the prince from this royal family.
- Purebred pugs originate in 400 BC making them one of the oldest dog breeds today.
- They come in several colors, around seven types: fawn, black, tan, white, silver, brindle, and caramel.
- Because of their loyalty, pugs were made as a symbol for secret groups in society
- Josephine Bonaparte owned a pug. She is the wife of Napoleon.
- You frequently see a movie that showcases a pug
- Grumble is the term for a group of pugs
- They can take away your stress and change your life
Puggle Fun Facts
- You don’t get a 100 percent puggle when you breed one
- Oftentimes, it’s always a female beagle bred with a male pug to create a puggle
- The first bred of puggle were in 1980s.
- Puggle puppy price is rising
- They shed more coat than pugs
- Puggles are not cat lovers
- Great family addition
- They also experience breathing problems
- More stubborn than pugs
- Adorable and more energetic than pugs
Final thoughts?
Puggle vs Pug? Which is a better dog breed? The answer is both of them. Your preference and lifestyle matters upon choosing which dog breed you want for the house. That is true for most instances, not just for toy dog breeds.
If you’re not sure what dog breed fits your personality, you can ask help from a vet or animal shelter. They conduct interviews to determine what dog personality suits you. To help you on this matter, here are some things you to look into before owning a pug or a puggle.
Purpose
Know the reason why you want to own one. That being said, you are clear with your intentions for getting a pet. If you want a guard dog that will secure your home, then these toy breeds won’t be enough. But if you want a lapdog or a fun one, then either a pug or puggle would be great.
However, these dogs can still guard your home, but not to the same level as other breeds like a rottweiler. If you give proper training for your pug or puggle, they can efficiently guard your family. Use positive reinforcement in making them obey your commands. Play with them as well to make them happy.
Cost
This entails the money to buy and sustain one. These dogs aren’t cheap, so you need to love and care for them. Giving them nutritious food, vet care, and grooming entails cost too. That means, you already see the associated expense when you plan to have a dog.
Luckily, these toy breeds are low maintenance and you can feed them with almost anything. But make sure they are suitable and clean for them.
Also, have a regular vet check up to ensure you get an early detection of any diseases. That way, you can give early medication that is more affordable to save your pet.
Dog Size and Home Space
Pugs and puggles are small, so they fit for homeowners who have a compact home, or for those living in apartments. Be practical about this since your pet will roam and make a mess. You need to have the right space for your dog, otherwise, it will be chaotic.
You can also get a comfortable crate for them. Train them to get inside and stay happily there. Ensure there is proper ventilation and cushion inside to avoid breathing and sanitation problems.
These small dogs is also good for large houses since you have more space to play with them. You can play and train them at different spots, which helps boost their excitement.
Dog Personality
This must be your top priority in selecting the dog since it can impact your family. For your children’s safety, it’s best if you get a dog that is stranger friendly and sociable. If this does not happen, then you can go for a pup and train them. Eventually, you will still need to train your new pet as they come to your house.
That being said, here are some vital components to examine your dog’s temperament:
- Intelligence and trainability
- Aggression
- Energy level
- Playfulness
- Emotional sensitivity
- Sociability with people and other animals
If you have other concerns or questions about pugs and puggles, don’t hesitate to ask your local veterinary. You can also ask us about it. We will do our best to give you the most accurate answer. We hope to help you understand the traits, benefits, and setbacks for these two breeds.
Don’t forget that no matter what dog breed you have (especially pugs), always show genuine care and love to them. These are loyal animals and so you can expect them to be trustworthy and loving.
Read more about pug care and tips from our blogs.