The Pugoodle (also known as a Pugapoo) is a loving, intelligent, companion pet that combines some of the best attributes of its Poodle and Pug parentage. Often inheriting Poodle smarts with some trademark round expressive Pug eyes, these little scamps can quickly have the most unsuspecting human firmly wrapped around their little paws.
In this article, we will provide a whistle-stop tour of the key things to know about this diminutive but quirky member of the Doodle family.
Table of Contents
Pugoodle Quick Facts
Parent Breeds | Poodle and Pug |
Height | 8 to 15 inches / 20 to 38 centimetres |
Weight | 10 to 30 lbs / 4.5 to 13.6Kg |
Lifespan | 10 – 14 years |
Other names | Pugapoo, Pugoodle, Pugadoodle |
Temperament | Affectionate, playful, loyal, intelligent, mischievous |
Best suited to | Families with older, gentle children.SinglesSeniorsThose with smaller living areas or limited yard space. |
Pugoogle Breed History
Like all Doodle breeds, the Pugoodle is a hybrid breed. This means it is a crossbreed from two different purebred parents. In the case of the Pugapoo it is the Pug and most commonly a Toy or Miniature Poodle.
There is no definitive answer on where and when the Pugoodle originated however it has been steadily rising in popularity over the last 20 years just like many other Doodle crosses.
The Poodle
Originating in Germany from as far back as the Middle Ages, with roots as a working dog developed to assist in hunting waterfowl, the Poodle has gone on to be popular the world over. The Toy and Miniature varieties which are used to create a Pugapoo came later in around 1900 as demand at the time moved to companion style lap dogs.
Favored time and time again for crossbreeding the Poodle brings intelligence in addition to their trademark curly, low shedding coat which has the potential to be passed on in varying degrees.
The Pug
While the Poodle originated in Europe, on the other side of the world in China the Pug dates back as far as 400 B.C. Whereas the Poodle has a working dog history the Pug has always been first and foremost a companion dog. These affable little characters were so good at endearing themselves to their humans that they often were highly prized by the richest members of Chinese society including emperors.
Pugoodle Temperament
Above all other characteristics, the most ingrained attribute of a little Pugapoo is loyalty. The companion history of the Pug parentage means these dogs thrive on human attention and being in close proximity to their families.
The Poodle passes on a rich genetic history of working alongside humans and can often experience anxiety when separated or alone. Mixing these two together makes for a dog who will give that trademark tail wagging, tippy tapping, butt wiggling welcome home even when you only stepped out for two minutes.
Often known to have little awareness of the concept of “personal space” be prepared to find your Pugoodle in your lap, on your feet, waiting impatiently outside the washroom door, or even in the bath with you if let them get away with it!
Both the Poodle and Pug are considered intelligent breeds. However, the Pug side can display a bit more stubbornness with their smarts meaning if your Pugapoo takes after its Pug parentage training may take a bit more perseverance. At heart, though the Pugoodle is a people pleaser and will respond well to early socialization and positive reward-based training.
Generally, the outgoing, bordering on silly streak in the Pug will counteract any aloofness which can come from the Poodle which results in a little Pugapoo who will be confident, friendly, and affectionate when treated with care.
Pugoogle Size
Many people choose the Pugapoo specifically for its small stature. This makes it applicable for those with smaller living spaces or who are less physically able to cope with a strong and large breed.
Largely speaking the male Pugoodle will be slightly bigger and a bit stockier in appearance, generally averaging between 10 and 15 inches in height. The female is often more petite and may range between 8 and 12 inches.
Pugoodle Coat Type and Maintenance
Some unscrupulous breeders can be seen to tout the Pugoodle as “hypoallergenic” or “non-shedding”. In reality, no Doodle cross can ever be guaranteed as hypoallergenic or non-shedding as all dogs will shed dander (skin cells) or saliva which could trigger allergies in those with sensitivities.
Adding a Poodle into a cross does allow the opportunity to decrease the amount of shedding however it all depends on just how the genetic lottery plays out as to whether a Pugapoo has a curlier Poodle coat or retains more of the smoother Pug coat. Even within the same litter, there can be variations in coat type.
If your Pugoodle displays a curlier coat they will require regular brushing alongside 4 to 8 weekly groomer trips or home-based cuts to avoid matting. A Pugapoo with a smoother Pug-type coat may be shorter and require fewer groomer trips however may be more likely to shed.
One option to increase the chance of a more Poodle-Esque coat is to consider an F1b generation Pugadoodle. In this situation a Pugapoo is crossbred with a Poodle meaning the pups would then be 75% Poodle and only 25% Pug and more likely to have a curly coat (however, it is still never guaranteed).
Pugoodle Exercise Needs
The Pugapoo generally has low to moderate exercise needs making them appealing to less active families, those with minimal outdoor space, and those with physical restrictions.
Pugoodle’s have little legs, little legs generally require less walking. The Pug parentage can also pass on some anatomical features whereby they have flatter faces and shorter noses which can impact the Pugapoo’s ability to breathe deeply. This means it is key when exercising to not let these little guys get too over-exerted or expose them to extreme heat.
Pugoodle Diet
A smaller member of the Doodle family, the Pugapoo can be easily prone to obesity as they are generally less physically active than their larger counterparts. The masters of “puppy dog eyes”, it can be incredibly hard to not offer up treats, however, obesity in small dogs can cause a whole manner of problems.
Adult Pugoodles will do well on one cup of high-quality food a day split over two mealtimes. A vet should always be consulted if you are concerned about your pet’s weight or nutrition.
Pugoodle Health
The Pugoodle is a prime example of how mixing the gene pool of two established purebreds can help avoid some of the common genetic issues that have occurred in the parents. While in theory the Pugapoo could be susceptible to any health condition experienced by their parents, the fact that they would most often need two matching faulty genes (one from their mother and one from their father) make it less likely.
Adding a Poodle to a Pug generally allows for a slightly longer muzzle than that of a purebred Pug which reduces the breathing problems common in the breed. Likewise, the Poodle is more susceptible to some heart conditions that are not generally seen in Pugs meaning it is unlikely the offspring carry this on.
Generally speaking, the Pugapoo is largely a healthy breed with a good life expectancy. However, they can be predisposed to some health concerns in relation to their small size namely:
- Patellar Luxation (wobbly kneecaps)
- Hip Dysplasia (affects hip formation)
- Legg Calve Perthes Disease (affects the head of the leg bones)
As the Pugoodle is a small breed extra care must be taken to avoid accidental injury especially when they are pups. As a sociable little breed, they can be prone to quite literally, getting under their owner’s feet. Young children who are not aware of how to interact with dogs may also be overzealous when playing with such a small pooch which could lead to unintentional injury.
In Conclusion
The Pugoodle (also known as the Pugapoo and Pugdoodle) is a small member of the Doodle family ideal for those seeking an intelligent, affectionate, and loyal pet. They are generally considered healthy and have low to moderate exercise needs making them accessible for a whole variety of people.
It is a bit of a lottery whether they will display more Poodle or Pug characteristics in their coat but what is almost a guarantee is a whimsical little mischief-maker who will always want to be by your side.