The Chihuahua Pug mix, also known as Chug among dog lovers, is one of the most popular mixed breed animals ever. However, it is not surprising as the two parent breeds – the Chihuahua and the Pug – are at the top of the list of the most popular dogs in the United States.
Historically, there are no records or evidence of the origins of the Chihuahua Pug mixture. However, he was probably deliberately bred in the USA sometime in the last 20 years. The story of this mixed breed is a bit confused, but that of its parents is not.
The Chihuahua and the Pug have a long and appreciated history. The Chihuahua has existed for 2000 years and they were the preferred companions of the Chinese royal family.
Pugs were raised by monks in monasteries and later in the 16th century. Later they spread throughout Europe thanks to Dutch merchants. Meanwhile, Chihuahuas aroused the interest of Americans in the 1800s to 1900s, when the breed was standardized.
If you plan to become the owner of a Pug Chihuahua mixture, it is in your best interest to learn more about the parent breeds. This will give you some ideas on what you can expect from your mixed breed dog and how you should raise it.
Breed Info
If there is one thing that needs to be said about the Chihuahua pug mixture, it is that it has a great personality in a tiny body. They have a round face, almond-shaped, dark eyes and a short, round nose. They are a smaller dog breed that weighs up to 20 lbs.
In terms of personality, this dog can have either the sweet temperament of the pug or the suspicious nature of the Chihuahua. This mixed breed is generally regarded as loving, sociable, playful, active and loyal. They are quite smart, but have a short attention span.
As descendants of two races designed for camaraderie, the Chug likes to spend time with his family. Don’t be surprised if your dog constantly follows you. This is another endearing Velcro dog that always hangs or cuddles on its owner. Unfortunately, the owner’s need for attention can lead to behavioral problems such as separation anxiety.
The pug Chihuahua Mix maintains a certain caution, a characteristic that he inherited from his parents. Pugs tend to be careful with strangers at first, but they can learn to get along well with other animals and children if they are socialized early.
In contrast, Chihuahuas don’t not respond well to other animals and children. Especially young animals that are too energetic and rough. In fact, they only tolerate other Chihuahuas or Chihuahua mixed breeds. This dog can also become aggressive, especially if it is not properly socialized, afraid or if he feels that someone is invading his territory.
Caring for a Chihuahua Pug Mix
The fur of the chug depends on which genes dominate. Therefore, you can either have a dog with short, coarse and dense hair like a pug or one with a medium-length fur that is silky like a Chihuahua. Since both parent breeds shed moderately, brush regularly.
Since the Chug has short hair, the owners should brush it at least weekly. However, brushing twice a day is ideal. This removes all dead hair and keeps the hair shiny. However, a long-haired pug Chihuahua mixture may need to be brushed more often, especially during seasonal shedding.
An occasional bath is also good. Again, you may have to bathe your Chug more often if he loses a lot of hair. However, if the pug’s genes are more dominant and your Chihuahua pug mixture has been blessed with wrinkled skin, you may need to cleanse and dry the wrinkles daily to prevent skin wrinkle dermatitis.
Clean your dog’s ears regularly. You should also make it a habit to check regularly. This reduces the risk of infection.
Both parent breeds usually suffer from dental problems, so consistent dental care is required for the chag. Brush their teeth daily and choose treats that also promote dental hygiene.
Health Problems
Mixed breed dogs are generally more robust than purebred dogs, but it is not quite true for the pug Chihuahua Mix. It is the unfortunate result of having parents who are susceptible to numerous health problems. This has made Chugs vulnerable to the following:
- Allergies
- Bladder and kidney stones
- Epilepsy
- Eye diseases
- Dental problems
- Heart problems
- Obesity
The pug is also a brachycephalic dog, which makes him susceptible to breathing problems. In addition, the pug is genetically susceptible to degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia.
The Chihuahua side of your mixed breed puppy is also full of medical problems such as hydrocephalus. There is also a higher risk of collapsed trachea and hypoglycemia.