The pug is considered by many to be one of the cutest breeds around. If you are in love with pugs, you will definitely love these pug mixes!
There’s a lot to love about pugs — they are gentle, affectionate, and fairly low-maintenance, making them a perfect dog breed for seniors or other owners who aren’t looking for a more laid back buddy.
These mixed breed dogs take the best, most lovable aspects of the pug breed and mix them with other great canine breeds — usually resulting in an irresistible pug cross! We dare you to look at these cute pug-pooch faces and not fall in love! Let’s check out common and not-so-common pug mixes and see what all the fuss is about!
K9 of Mine does not promote any unethical, harmful, and unhealthy breeding. One must always act responsibly when breeding dogs and keep the dogs’ well-being in mind. And if you’re interested in adopting or purchasing a mixed breed pug, be sure that you only consider reputable breeders.
Pugs 101: Must-Know Mutt Facts
Before we dig into the cutest, cuddliest, and most comical pug mixes, we must understand the day’s star breed: the pug! Check out these must-know facts about this flat-faced favorite.
The Pug’s Breed History
While this compact canine is very much still a modern favorite, he dates back more than 2,000 years to China!
This ancient dog breed began as a companion to royalty, warming the laps and hearts of emperors and the imperial court — all of whom fancied the breed and other flat-faced floofs like the Pekingese and shih tzu. It was here that pugs thrived as a prized royal doggo despite being virtually unknown elsewhere.
The breed didn’t appear in Europe until the 1500s after Dutch traders returned with some of these unusual-looking pooches. As you can guess, he weaseled his way into the hearts of European royalty too, eventually making his way to England and beyond!
The Pug’s Appearance
The pug is a small but sturdy meatball of a mutt, weighing between 14 and 18 pounds and standing from 10 to 13 inches at the shoulder. He’s easy to distinguish from other doggos with his flat, wrinkled face, bug eyes, and tightly curled tail — a feature some pug parents lovingly call a piggy tail.
The pug has a short coat that comes in two colors: fawn and black. As for markings, the AKC permits a black mask. Other colors and markings, such as apricot, silver, and brindle, are found in certain lines, but these aren’t included in the AKC standard.
The Temperament of Pugs
The pug is a known charmer and comedian, so it’s no surprise this little one has been a treasured fur friend for millennia.
All this time in the spotlight has left this little one expecting frequent lovin’, leaving him squarely in Velcro dog breed territory. He is happiest at your side as the center of attention, not alone for long hours. This affectionate pup’s personality typically makes for an excellent lap dog.
That said, the pug is also infamous for getting into mischief, often making his own fun when feeling ignored or understimulated. Unfortunately, this can sometimes result in destructive behaviors. While he’s not the most energetic dog breed, he still needs moderate exercise daily, with a walk and play periods of time indoors doing the trick.
Training Pugs
The pug is relatively easy to train and eager to please, especially when training treats are involved. Training sessions should be kept positive and fun with no aversive punishments, as he is a sensitive soul.
Since he’s so fun-loving, you may want to try implementing dog training toys into lessons to keep him focused and engaged.
Pug Grooming Needs
The pug’s coat is short, but he is a moderate shedder, so expect to brush him every few days to remove loose fuzz. You’ll also want a good vacuum for dog hair to keep your place tidy.
Only bathe this barker as needed and occasionally wipe his face wrinkles if he has enjoyed a messy meal. It’s also vital to get your pug puppy used to regular nail trims early, as this breed is dramatic about having his paws handled.
Pug Health Concerns
Sadly, the pug’s unique looks come at a cost, with the breed’s famously flat face leaving him smack-dab in the brachycephalic dog breed column. This means he’s at high risk of breathing trouble, overheating, and eye issues.
Special care is needed to cool him down during warm or humid weather. Air conditioning is essential, along with keeping outdoor bathroom breaks brief.
The pug is also prone to joint issues, including elbow and hip dysplasia. Another concern is Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE), a disease only found in the breed that causes fatal brain swelling. Pet insurance is a good idea for pugs, though some companies refuse coverage for the breed or charge premium prices.
Selecting a pug puppy from a good dog breeder is the best way to ensure your pup is on the right track genetically. Watching your pug’s weight is also critical, as this breed often packs on the pounds, putting unnecessary stress on his joints.
32 Pug Mixes: Wrinkly, Rascally Rovers
Pug mixes are one of the more popular blended barkers out there. Let’s meet some of these magical mutts and see if they match with your lifestyle.
1. Aussie Pug (Australian Shepherd x Pug)
The Australian shepherd pug cross is loving and affectionate dog breed, who makes a fantastic canine companion. These dogs are highly alert, fairly intelligent, and are lively buddies to have by your side!
2. Frug (French Bulldog x Pug)
Also referred as the Frenchie Pug, the Frug might be a little dog, but he has a big personality. These mixed breed dogs are curious and love to be around their pack members, making them well-known as great family pets. Just understand that these little lovable lads and ladies can suffer from health issues.
Do you love everything about Frenchies? See more French bulldog mixes.
3. Porgi (Corgi x Pug Mix)
Want a pug cross that’s a bit of a beef cake? Well, in addition to having a somewhat muscular build, corgi pug mixes are full of strength and are very energetic too. The corgi pug requires significant daily exercise to stay fit and up to the mark.
4. Puggle (Beagle x Pug)
The Puggle is a healthy and strong little dog with a playful instinct, a desire to please, and a great “sense of humor.” The Beagle parent breed tends to make this doggo follow his nose rather than cues and commands, so be sure to put plenty of time into training.
Bonkers about beagles? Meet more beagle mixes on our list.
5. Hug (Husky x Pug)
Owing to their large size (compared to other pugs at least), the husky pug mix is very energetic and requires an intense exercise routine. While some pug husky dog mixes may share similar characteristics with the pug, others may derive more of their personalities from the husky side.
6. Chug (Chihuahua x Pug)
The Chug dog features a muscular and compact built. With a lovable, expressive face, the chug derives traits from both its parent breeds. Chugs are generally friendly, lovable, and a perfect buddy to get along with.
7. Daug (Dachshund x Pug)
Daugs are loving and affectionate pug mixes — a cross between the sweet pug and low-riding dachshund. Daugs like to cuddle, but they also possess an independent side. These dogs are alert, lively, and fairly intelligent.
Can’t get enough of these wacky wieners? See our full list dedicated to dachshund mixes.
8. Pom-A-Pug (Pomeranian x Pug)
The Pom-a-Pug is a cute looking designer dog, who is small-statured, lean, and easily identified by his short, wrinkly face. They are friendly, playful, and make a popular pet choice among dog enthusiasts. If you have a soft spot for Poms, make sure to check out our guide to Pomeranian mixed breeds too!
9. Bassugg (Basset Hound x Pug)
Bassuggs are strong little dogs known for their cute yet serious looks. Possessing a family-oriented attitude, they like to hang by your side whenever they can. Thanks to their size and lovable nature, they make perfect family dogs.
Ready for more Basset barkers? Check out our list of Basset hound mixed breeds.
10. Bugg (Boston Terrier x Pug)
Bugs are well-known for their cute looks and short statures. Because of their compact size and amazing disposition, they make good first-time dogs for newbie owners. Pugs and Boston terrier mixes are known to be quite the clowns, so this little jesters should provide tons of amusement and laughs for your family!
11. Poxer (Boxer x Pug)
Poxers are smart, playful, intelligent, friendly, and loyal to their family. A boxer pug cross tends to be alert and fearless while requiring plenty of physical exercises to be happy. Boxer pugs appreciate training sessions packed with positive reinforcements.
12. Brug (Brussels Griffon x Pug)
Brugs are generally friendly, good with children (really, they’re great with people in general), affectionate, and playful – plus they love to sleep. You can’t help but fall for this spirited and sweet designer dog breed.
13. Schnug (Mini Schnauzer x Pug)
The Schunug is a stubborn yet a smart designer breed. She loves going out and jumping around, and she always wants to be playing – but she also enjoys a good cuddle session!
14. Pugshire (Yorkshire Terrier x Pug)
Pugshires are small dogs with cute characteristics. They are known for their loving and dedicated natures.
Do you yearn for more Yorkshire terrier goodness? See our list of Yorkie mixes.
15. Pug Zhu (Shih Tzu x Pug)
Pug Zhu is a great family dog. The parent breed shih tzu was originally bred as a companion for royal families, so you’re sure to see some of this mutt’s aristocratic yet charming personality. These mixed pups are loyal, lively, friendly, food-motivated (making them easy to train), and people-orientated.
Adore the look of this cutie? Check out more shih tzu mixes.
16. Pugalier (King Charles Cavalier Spaniel x Pug)
The Pugaliers are a pug mixed breed known to be intelligent and friendly. They make a suitable pet for families and are known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them.
17. Pugland (West Highland White Terrier x Pug)
This uncommon canine combination results in an energetic companion. These pups bond closely with their families, but they do best in homes without young children. Puglands are surprisingly active and are happy to accompany you on any adventure.
18. Puggit (Italian Greyhound x Pug)
Looking for a sweet family companion? The graceful Puggit is an excellent choice. These pups love spending time with their humans, and are gentle with just about anyone, including small kids. Puggits do have a strong prey drive, so they might not be the preferred pick for homes with cats or other small pets.
19. Puggat (Rat Terrier x Pug)
The Puggat is a lively little companion that is happy to curl up next to you after a long day of play. These sprite furry friends are happy to be the only pooch in your palace and will bond closely with family members. However, these pups can be aloof around strangers and other pets, so early socialization is key.
20. Pug Pit (American Pitbull Terrier x Pug)
These lovely lap dogs are true furry family members that are happy to accompany you on just about any adventure. Pug pits are playful, loving dogs that bond with everyone in the family, including kids.
Pug pits may be a bit weary towards strangers and other dogs, so start socialization training early.
Do you go gaga for all things pit bull? Meet more perfect pit bull mixes.
21. Pugador (Labrador Retriever x Pug)
The happy-go-lucky Pugador is a friend to all. These canine cuties love spending time with people and other pets, making them wonderful companions. Both breeds crave constant company, so these marvelous mutts will appreciate lively, loving households.
22. Sheltie Pug (Shetland Sheepdog x Pug)
This cute pug cross is well balanced, taking in some of the more sheepish qualities of the Shetland sheepdog and mixing it with the affectionate nature of pugs. These sweet dogs are super loyal to their families, though they can be a bit wary of strangers. You’ll want to start socialization early, and keep in mind that the Shetland Pug may inherit the sheepdog’s herding instinct.
There are more Sheltie sweeties waiting! Check out our list of Sheltie mixes.
23. Japug (Japanese Chin x Pug)
You’ll find a spunky little lapdog in the adorable Japug. These furry friends want nothing more than to keep your legs warm and will keep you entertained with their spicy side inherited from the proud Japanese chin. These toy breeds are great apartment dogs and reign well as the only dog in the house.
24. Pugairn (Cairn Terrier x Pug)
Take the bold Carin terrier and pair it with the couch-potato pug and you get a well-rounded canine companion. These spirited pups love to be in on the action and will keep you on your toes with their boundless energy levels. With a lust for life, these pups are great family dogs and can keep up with kids.
25. Puganese (Havanese x Pug)
If you’re seeking a pint-sized pup to run your pooch palace, the loving Puganese is a great choice. These small sweeties are true Velcro dogs, happy to follow you from one room to another. They may be somewhat wary of strangers, so start the socialization process early on.
Have to have more Havanese? Browse our list of Havanese mixes.
26. Pugese (Chinese Crested x Pug)
Pugese pups are true canine comedians with plenty of silly antics to keep you entertained. This marvelous mix loves spending time with his favorite humans, but note that he can be prone to separation anxiety.
27. Golden Pug (Golden Retriever x Pug)
You can’t help but fall for the endlessly cheerful Golden Pug. These pups are a friend to all, excelling with strangers, other pets, and kids. However, these spirited sweeties can act like permanent puppies, so consistent, positive training sessions are a necessity.
28. Pug-a-poo (Poodle x Pug)
The playful Pug-a-poo is an active, cheery mix that loves spending time with anyone and everyone. Pug-a-poo pups might inherit quick wit from their poodle parents, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble training these clever canines — just use plenty of positive reinforcements.
29. Toy Poxer (Toy Fox Terrier x Pug)
Are you seeking a feisty furry friend? You’re sure to love this spirited pug cross. The pug mix breed is a curious canine that’s happy to curl up next you on the couch after a day full of play (they have pretty high energy levels). These pups aren’t the best fit for homes with children and are happy to serve as the sole pup of the house.
30. Malti-Pug (Maltese x Pug)
The affectionate Malti Pug is incredibly affectionate and loves spending time with family and other furry friends. These smart dogs are luckily easy to train, so long as you have a couple of treats up your sleeve. They are prone to separation anxiety, so these dogs are best paired with owners who are around on a regular basis.
Interested in meeting more Maltese mutts? Check out our list of Maltese mixes.
31. Pughasa (Lhasa Apso x Pug)
Cross two pups with sweet personality traits, and you’re get a lovey dovey canine cross that is the Pughasa. These sweethearts are incredibly loyal and make surprisingly great watchdogs and family pets. They can be a bit aloof around strangers, so make sure to invest time in socialization.
32. Pug Shiba (Shiba Inu x Pug)
Take the clingy Pug and cross him with the more independent Shiba Inu, and you’ll get a great couch companion dog who doesn’t mind keeping himself entertained for a couple of hours. These friendly furballs have a strong prey drive, so that might not be the best choice for homes with small pets.
Pug mixes certainly aren’t the only marvelous mutts around — check out some of these other great dogs of mixed ancestry!
Pug Mixes: FAQ
Still curious about pug mixes? Check out the most commonly asked questions about pug mixes and the answers with us!
What is the best pug crossbreed?
The best pug mix for you depends on your lifestyle.
For instance, a family with kids might enjoy a golden retriever pug mix, that can handle the rough-and-tumble nature of young two-footers. Conversely, an adults-only household would be OK with a smaller, more fragile floof, like the Malti-Pug.
Always research a breed extensively before bringing home a barker to ensure a good long-term match.
What is a pug cross Staffy called?
The designer dog breed name commonly given to the Staffordshire bull terrier-pug mix is the Staffy Bull. This pooch has the potential to be well-muscled and strong, requiring experienced pet owners dedicated to training, socialization, and daily exercise.
What breed is a teddy bear pug?
So-called “Teddy Bear Pugs” are pug mixes, usually created by mixing a pug and a bichon or a pug and a poodle. These are not purebred pugs and shouldn’t be advertised as such. If a breeder is doing so, look elsewhere.
Love the look of a fluffy floof? See more teddy bear dog breeds.
What is the rarest pug color?
Most pugs have the fawn (light brown/tan) coloring with a black mask, but the AKC breed standard also accepts black as a coat color. While less common than tan, black isn’t super rare.
Breeders marketing oddball colors like merle or blue aren’t following the breed standard and should be avoided. We get that they look cool, but in a breed as delicate health-wise as the pug, you have to wonder what other aspects a breeder is overlooking in these cases.
So, there you have it – 32 of the coolest pug mixes around! Tell us which one you liked best and don’t forget to share your pug-mix photos. Send them to us via Facebook, Twitter or link to them in the comments below!
Just remember to keep the personalities of both parent breeds (as well as any health concerns they may have) before deciding to bring home one of these crossbred cuties!
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