Dog lovers also call this dog breed the “Chug.” It is one of the most popular mixed-breed pets out there. But it’s not a surprise, since the Chihuahua and the Pug, which are both two-parent breeds, are two of the most popular dogs in the US.
There are no records or proof from the past that show where the Chihuahua Pug mix came from. It was likely bred on purpose in the U.S. sometime in the last 20 years, though. Thanks to luck, the history of this hybrid is not too complicated, but the history of its parents is.
In fact, both the Chihuahua and the Pug have long and well-known histories. The first one is said to have existed before written history, while the second one has been around for 2,000 years and was the favorite pet of Chinese royalty.
In monasteries, pugs were raised by monks. In the 1600s, Dutch merchants helped the dogs spread all over Europe. In the meantime, Americans became interested in Chihuahuas from the 1800s to the 1900s, when the breed became standardized.
If you want to get a Pug-Chihuahua mix, you should also learn more about the parent breeds. You can use this to learn about your mixed dog and how to raise it.
Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Chihuahua Pug Mix
| Weight | 10 to 20 pounds |
| Height | 6 to 14 inches |
| Size | Toy |
| Coat Type | Dense but short |
| Coat Color | Black, brown, cream, golden and white; Could have brindling, spots, and sabling as markers |
| Amount of Shedding | Moderate |
| Eyes | Dark |
| Nose | Black |
| Ears | Erect or folded |
| Temperament | Affectionate, loyal, smart, stubborn, and has a short attention span |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 13 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Kid Friendly | No |
| New Owner Friendly | No |
| Breed Recognition | American Hybrid Canine Club (ACHA), Dog Registry of America (DRA), International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR) |
When it comes to the Chihuahua Pug mix, one thing that stands out is that it has a big personality packed into a small body that is strong and muscular. It has a round face with dark, almond-shaped eyes and a short, round nose that might be pushed in a little. Some people think the Chug looks like a small Boxer.
When it comes to personality, this dog could be as friendly as a Pug or as wary as a Chihuahua. People generally think this mixed breed is friendly, loving, playful, active, and loyal. It’s pretty smart, but it can’t keep its mind on one thing for long.
Because it is a mix of two breeds that were made to be friends, the Pug Chihuahua loves spending time with its family. It’s normal for your dog to follow you around all the time. This is another cute “velcro” dog that stays close to its owner and loves being cuddled. It can have behavior problems like separation anxiety because it needs to be with its owner all the time.
A Pug-Chihuahua mix likes to make its owner happy. It helps to train the dog with this trait because it makes the dog more eager to learn and do what you say. But this dog is also very stubborn.
This mixed-breed dog isn’t the friendliest pet out there. If you mix a Chihuahua and a Pug, the puppy will still be wary because that’s what its parents gave it. To begin with, pugs are usually wary of strangers. However, if they are socialized early on, they can learn to get along well with other animals and kids.
Chubby Schnauzers, on the other hand, don’t get along with other dogs or kids, especially rough and active kids. As it turns out, they only get along with other Chihuahuas or mixed-breed Chihuahuas. Also, this dog can get mean, especially if they aren’t socialized well, are scared, or think someone is coming onto their territory.
Pug Chihuahua Mix Puppies for Sale
Taking care of a dog for life is a commitment, but a Chihuahua-Pug mix comes with extra health problems. You should only get a puppy from parent breeds that have been through proper health tests and had the results recorded at the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC). The group needs genetic testing for NME, dysplasia, and patellar luxation in Pugs and a heart exam for Chihuahuas.
If you want to get the best results, only work with honest breeders. Before you look at the Pug Chihuahua mix puppies, make sure you know that the parent dogs have been checked out.
It is also suggested that you do not buy dogs from pet stores or people you met online. It’s not possible to be sure that these poor dogs are healthy because they were probably raised in puppy mills. A breeder who says they can give you a puppy with certain traits is also not someone you should do business with. You can’t really design a mixed-breed dog, so don’t waste your time and money on this.
You need to find the best Chihuahua-Pug mix breeder near you. Check out these well-known breeders to help you along the way:
Another good way to get the puppy you want is to adopt one. Check with the ASPCA or shelters in your area. These organizations are more than willing to help. Also, visit websites like www.adoptapet.com and www.petfinder.com. There are a lot of shelters and groups on that list with dogs that need loving homes.
Grooming Your Chihuahua Mixed With Pug
The coat of a Chihuahua-Pug mix will depend on which breed’s genes are stronger. So, you can get a dog with short, rough, and dense hair like a Pug or one with medium-length hair that feels smooth like a Chihuahua. But since both parent breeds shed a little, you can expect your Chug to need regular care.
Because the Chug’s hair is short, owners only need to brush it once a week at the very least. But brushing your teeth twice a day is best. The dead hair will fall out, and the hair will stay shiny and free of knots. But if your Pug Chihuahua mix has longer hair, you might need to brush it more often, especially when it sheds. A slicker and pin brush is a good thing to get for your dog.
This dog doesn’t mind getting baths very often. Once more, you may need to bathe your Chug more often when it’s losing fur. Chihuahua Pug mix dogs sometimes have wrinkled skin because of the Pug genes. To keep this from happening, you may need to clean and dry the folds every day to avoid skinfold dermatitis.
Always clean your dog’s ears. It’s also a good idea to check often, especially for people with folder ears. To keep them from getting infections, you should make sure their ears are clean and dry.
Both of the parent breeds often have dental problems, so the Chug needs to get regular dental care. It should brush its teeth every day and eat treats that are good for its teeth. You can get milk bones that clean your teeth or toys that can be used as floss.
Pug Mixed With Chihuahua Health Problems
Most people believe that mixed-breed dogs are tougher than purebred dogs. The odds are against a Pug mixed with a Chihuahua, even though that is partly true. This is a bad thing that happens when your parents are prone to many health issues. Because of this, Chugs is now open to the following:
- Itchy skin
- Stones in the bladder and kidneys
- Seizures
- Eye conditions like distichia, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or dry eye, ocular injury, progressive retinal atrophy, and protrusion can all affect the eyes.
- Demodectic mange
- Having dental issues
- Pain in the heart
- Legg-Calve-Perthes
- NME stands for necrotizing meningoencephalitis.
- Being overweight
- A luxated patella
A portosystemic shunt (PSS)
The Pug also has brachycephalic, a condition that gives it a flat face and makes it more likely to have breathing problems, especially when it comes to reverse sneezing and panting to keep its body temperature in check. Any Pug mix will have a brachycephalic head to some degree, and it may get some of its parents’ health problems. The Pug is also genetically more likely to get degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia.
The Chihuahua part of your hybrid puppy is also prone to health issues, such as hydrocephalus. It also has a greater chance of having a collapsed trachea and low blood sugar.
Chihuahua Crossed With Pug Food Requirements
People who own a Chihuahua that was crossed with a Pug should watch how much food their pet eats. If you want your pug to eat less, you might want to feed it food that is high in fiber. This will trick them into thinking they are eating more. While best dry dog food may help your dog stay healthy, these worst dry dog food brands are more likely to make them gain weight.
Puppies, adults, and older adults all need different kinds of food. Read about how important it is to feed your dog food that is right for their age by looking through these helpful guides to the best puppy food brands and best senior dry dog food.
Don’t forget that being overweight can make its health problems worse.
The Chihuahua Pug mix should eat food made just for small dogs, like the best dry dog food for small dogs. When it comes to food, your furry friend’s size does matter. If you choose best large breed dry dog food for a small dog, you might not be giving them enough nutrients. Foods that are high in energy and mostly meat are the best. The best dog food is a cup of the best dry dog food.
In the long run, all kinds of health problems can be caused by not getting enough protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Add Nutra Thrive dog food supplement to your pet’s food to make sure they get all the nutrients they need.
It’s also best to give your dog hard, dry kibble because it keeps tartar from building up.
There won’t be any trouble finding healthy food for your pet, though. These are some of the best brands on the market right now:
Wellbeing Core Dog Food: This top-quality dog food has a very high protein level, thanks to chicken that has been deboned. Holistic vets and nutritionists worked together to make this dry dog food because they wanted to make the best average for small breeds. It doesn’t have any grains and has glucosamine, which is good for your bones and joints.
Dog Food: This food is great for both small dogs and puppies. Even picky eaters will like the kibble because it has both soft and crunchy bits in it.
Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed: The chicken and rice formula in this brand was made to give small dogs and puppies the best nutrition. It is free of food coloring and preservatives, and Hill’s dog food doesn’t use any artificial flavors. It has a lot of antioxidants and a lot of vitamins C and E. It also has calcium, which makes your dog’s bones and teeth stronger.
Pug Crossed With Chihuahua Exercise Requirements
A Chihuahua and Pug mix doesn’t need a lot of exercise. Your dog only needs 30 to 45 minutes of exercise every day to stay healthy. A five- to six-mile walk once a week is also good for this little dog because it gets tired quickly. The brachycephalic genes it got from the Pug also make it more likely to have breathing problems when doing hard activities.
Aside from obedience and agility tests, dog sports are also good ways to keep the Chug’s body in shape and keep training its manners. Also, you should play with your dog at least three times a day for thirty minutes each time. Don’t forget to buy them toys that will keep their minds and bodies active.
These are some of the best toys on the market right now for this breed:
Air Kong Squeaky X-Small Tennis Balls: Bright and durable, the Air Kong Squeaky X-Small Tennis Balls fit the mouth of even a small dog breed like a Pug Chihuahua cross. Even after hours of play, your dog will still love this squeaky toy.
Tiny Turtle by West Paw Design: This little turtle is the cutest of all of them. This toy is made of corduroy and has a squeaker inside. It’s the perfect size for Chug puppies. It’s also strong enough to last until your dog grows up.
Mini Sqwuggie Dog Toy: As the best tug toy for toy breeds, the Sqwuggie is bright, long-lasting, and can even float in water, so your pet can play with it anywhere. The Chug will be interested in it because it has a squeaker and is made to fit small mouths.
Chihuahua Pug Training
A lot of people who own small dogs don’t train or socialize them. Because they are small, owners don’t see them as a threat and let them act dominantly. This eventually leads to “small dog syndrome,” a learned behavior that makes toy breeds and other small dogs annoying, noisy, and hard to keep as a pet.
Because the Chihuahua in a Chihuahua Pug makes it more likely to be aggressive, owners should take steps to keep their mixed-breed pet from becoming a diva. Any behavior that isn’t okay for big dogs as an adult should also not be okay for little dogs.
Due to its independence and stubbornness, this mixed breed dog will need to be trained by someone with a lot of experience. There should be someone who can give it a
Your Pug-Chihuahua mix should learn how to behave and meet new people when it’s still a puppy. To keep their dogs from getting the syndrome, owners should keep them in training and socialization programs even after the dog is an adult.
Chugs are easy to train because they like to please their owners. But owners should also show that they are in charge and be consistent with how they train their dogs.
When training a small dog like the Chug, here are some interesting things to think about:
Try to think and feel good. The Chihuahua-Pug mix is a sensitive dog, so hitting it will not help with training. Always keep in mind that small dogs can easily get scared or startled. Positive reinforcement is the way to go if you want to get better results. Hug and praise your dog a lot and give it small treats.
Don’t go too long. Another thing to think about is that your dog has a short attention span. It will learn quickly, but it won’t be able to focus for long periods of time. Each training session should be short and fun.
Stay down. If you stand over your small dog and yell commands, it will get scared. Get on the ground so that you’re almost at the same level as your Chihuahua-Pug mix when you start to train it. It will make you less scary for your dog and make them feel safer and more at ease. You can start training your dog at a higher level once it knows some commands and tricks.
Do not give up. Because they are small, dogs can get away with a lot of things. Don’t think that being small means you are poor or weak. Soon, your little pet will try to do things you don’t like, like jumping on you or the furniture, to get your attention. Stand your ground and do what you were taught. Remember that if you won’t let a big dog do something, don’t let a small dog do it either.
It’s not the same to housetrain small dogs. One of the best ways to housetrain your puppy is to use a crate. Don’t forget, though, that the Chug’s bladder is smaller. In other words, it won’t be able to keep them for long. Depending on its age and size, it will need to be let out every two to four hours. If you’re going to be gone for a while, you might want to use training pads or find someone to watch your pet.
Pug Chihuahua and Families
There is no doubt that the Pug Chihuahua can be a great pet. It cares about its owner and will do everything it can to please them. You should be ready to give your pet a lot of love and attention, though. Also, kids should learn the right way to handle this dog. As a general rule, they have to be careful not to make the Chug angry. If you have very young children, this dog might not be a good fit for your family.
A cross between a Chihuahua and a Pug is a great pet for apartment dwellers, but it will do well in any home. You can’t let it live outside because it’s too small to get through a fence. This dog also likes it when it’s warm outside, which is why it likes to cuddle so much. It’s possible that your Chug is hiding under your blankets.
Top 10 Products for Chihuahua Pug Mix Owners
Chihuahua Pug mixes, often called “Chugs,” are small, playful, and loving dogs that require tailored care to suit their size, energy level, and health needs. Here are the top products on Amazon designed to keep your Chug happy and healthy:
1. Small Dog Harness
- Description: A lightweight and adjustable harness that fits their petite frame comfortably.
- Top Pick: Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness
2. Interactive Chew Toys
- Description: Perfect for their small jaws and playful temperament. Helps alleviate boredom and promotes dental health.
- Top Pick: Nylabone Puppy Chew Toy for Small Breeds
3. Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Description: Provides support for their small size while ensuring comfort and joint health.
- Top Pick: BarksBar Orthopedic Dog Bed
4. Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
- Description: Prevents overeating, which is important for Chugs that tend to gain weight easily.
- Top Pick: Outward Hound Fun Feeder
5. Premium Small-Breed Dog Food
- Description: Designed to provide balanced nutrition tailored for their small size and energy needs.
- Top Pick: Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed
6. Breathable Dog Sweater
- Description: Keeps your Chug warm in cooler weather, especially given their thin coat.
- Top Pick: Gooby Fleece Vest Dog Sweater
7. Grooming Kit for Short-Haired Dogs
- Description: Includes tools to reduce shedding and keep their coat clean and healthy.
- Top Pick: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
8. Portable Pet Carrier
- Description: Ideal for travel or trips to the vet, offering both comfort and safety for your Chug.
- Top Pick: Sherpa Travel Pet Carrier
9. Dental Chews for Small Dogs
- Description: Promotes dental health, which is crucial for small breeds prone to dental issues.
- Top Pick: Greenies Dental Chews for Small Dogs
10. Portable Dog Water Bottle
- Description: Ensures your Chug stays hydrated during walks or outdoor adventures.
- Top Pick: MalsiPree Portable Dog Water Bottle
(FAQs) about Chihuahua Pug Mixes:
What does a Chihuahua Pug Mix look like?
It is fun to see how a Chihuahua and a Pug mix, which people often just call a “Chug,” looks when they are together. The cute qualities of both parent breeds are present in this mix.
How big are Chihuahua Pug Mixes, and how do they look?
Chihuahua-Pug mixes are usually small to medium-sized dogs that are built tight and strong. Some of their traits, like their unique face and curled tail, may come from both the Chihuahua and the Pug.
What are Chihuahua Pug Mixes like as pets?
People love chug mixes because they are friendly, playful, and affectionate. Their friendly nature comes from having the lively personality of a Chihuahua and the cute personality of a Pug.
How often should Chihuahua Pug Mixes run?
Even though Chihuahua Pug Mixes don’t have a lot of energy, they do need regular exercise to stay healthy. Walking, playing with other people, and doing things that keep your mind active should all be done every day.
Does a Chihuahua Pug mix get along well with kids and other pets?
If they are socialized properly, chuggies can make great family pets. They usually get along well with kids, but because they are small, you should keep an eye on them. Getting pets used to each other early on is good.
What do Chihuahua Pug Mixes need to do to keep themselves clean?
How often you need to groom them depends on what kind of coat they have from both of their parents. It’s important to brush, trim your dog’s nails, and do other grooming tasks like cleaning their face folds (which is common for Pugs).
Do Chihuahua Pug Mixes have any health problems?
Mixed-breed Chihuahuas and Pugs may get health problems from both of their parents. Some of the most common problems are breathing problems (common in brachycephalic breeds), dental issues, and joint issues. Preventive care at the vet’s office includes regular check-ups.
How easy are Chihuahua-Pug mixes to train?
Chihuahua-Pug mixes are usually smart and easy to train, but they can be stubborn sometimes. They are well-behaved because they are trained consistently and with positive reinforcement.
Chihuahua Pug Mixes how long do they live?
If you give your Chihuahua Pug Mix the right care, food, and regular vet visits, they should live for about 10 to 14 years.
What should people who want to get a Chihuahua Pug Mix think about?
People who want to adopt should be ready for a loving and flexible pet. To give a Chihuahua Pug Mix a good home, you need to know about the needs of both parent breeds, such as how much exercise they need, how they like to be groomed, and any health problems they might have.
