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Searching for the right companion dog takes time and knowledge of the breeds you’re interested in. It’s important to find a dog that has the right mix of characteristics and personality to fit in well with you and your family.
In this article, we have put together some information on the Pug Pit dog! If you’d like to learn more about this dog breed, read on!
What is a Pug Pit?
The Pug Pit is a hybrid dog, also called a designer dog. That’s because the dog breed is not a purebred; instead, it’s a mix of a Pug and an American Pitbull Terrier. Remember that hybrid dogs are unique individuals. Even puppies from the same litter can have different characteristics and personalities. No hybrid puppy is a 50/50 mix. They will have more traits from one parent than the other. And that’s OK!
No one is quite sure when this hybrid mix of the Pug Pit first appeared. However, we can trace the history of both parents!
The Pug originally comes from China, where the breed was highly prized by China’s royalty. This dog breed was first mentioned in records dating back to 206 BC. In China, Pugs lived a life of luxury. Later, in the 1500s, Europeans came to trade with China. It was then Pugs were first introduced to Europeans. Pugs were brought to Europe, where they were also prized by royalty. For instance, Queen Victoria is said to have loved Pugs, as did William of Orange, and Marie Antoinette.
Pugs first made their appearance in the US just after the Civil War. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885.
Pitbull Terriers were first bred in the 1800s in England. They were used for blood sports such as bear and bull-baiting. Thankfully, these activities were outlawed in 1835. Eventually, the dogs were brought to the US, where they were used as working dogs. Pitbulls were used to guard livestock and protect farms. They also helped hunt wild boar.
You may sometimes hear this designer dog breed referred to by other names, including:
- Pugbull Terrier
- Pit-a-Pug
- Pit Pug
- Pug-a-Bull
- Pugabul
- Pugbull
These dogs are not recognized by the AKC; however, Pug Pits are recognized by the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA).
Pug Pit Stats
Pug Pit dogs stand between 14 to 15 inches tall and weigh about 30 lbs. They have a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
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Ask a Vet Live NowPug Pits Characteristics
Pug Pits are usually smaller than their Pitbull parent, and they come in a wide range of colors, including red, black, or blue. Each dog’s coloring depends on the genetics he’s inherited from his parents. Some dogs may also be brindle, fawn, and more.
These dogs may also have noses that are of various colors, including black, brown, red, and blue. They may also have button ears and a tail that curls over its back, like the Pug parent.
Pug Pits have short hair that’s smooth, with muscular hindquarters and legs. The dogs sometimes appear to be a little chubby. If the puppy takes after its Pug parent, then it may have black markings around its eyes, nose, and mouth.
When it comes to their eye color, Pug Pits usually have brown, almond-shaped eyes that resemble the Pug. However, they usually have a short muzzle, like their Pitbull parent.
The Pug Pit also has a muscular, short, somewhat stocky body, which is similar to other Pitbull mixes. Because they’re muscular, these dogs are usually very athletic. They don’t have any trouble keeping up with larger dogs.
Pug Pit Personality
The Pug Pit can be a great family dog and are intelligent, affectionate dogs. They love to play! What’s more, they tend to be low shedding, which may be a factor for those who have allergies. However, these dogs do have a tendency to bark, which is very unlike the dog’s Pug parent.
Some Pug Pits are more like their Pug parent. They’re easy-going and relaxed. However, others will be more like their Pitbull parent. These puppies may be friendly and alert. They are also loyal, friendly, and obedient.
However, Pug Pits require early training and socialization. They respond best to positive reinforcement training and are usually moderately easy to train. Some of these canines may be stubborn, however. And the love to be affectionate. In fact, they want nothing more than to spend time with their family. These dogs don’t do well when left alone for extended periods. They can become destructive and perhaps develop other negative behaviors.
Most Pug Pits, though, are calm and gentle. If they perceive a threat in a stranger, they may bark or growl.
It’s said if you have a Pug Pit dog, then you’ll never feel lonely. That’s because these dogs love to be the center of your world, and they return your love! These playful, energetic dogs are sure to steal your heart!
Pug Pit Health Issues
Just as with other types of hybrid dogs, the Pug Pit can inherit certain genetic health issues from their parents. However, reputable breeders take care to breed healthy puppies. They should offer a health clearance for each puppy they sell and guarantee the puppies have been tested for genetic health problems.
Pug Pits are prone to the following health issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Pug encephalitis
- Hemivertebrae
- Epilepsy
- Mange
- Eye problems
- Allergies
- Ear infections
- Cataracts
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Legg-calve Perthes disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Patellar luxation
- Corneal cancer
If you have any concerns about your fur baby developing these or other health issues, you may want to consider buying some good pet health insurance. Pet care policies cover everything from emergencies, preventative care, vaccinations, and more. Of course, these policies may cost a little more. However, they’re well worth the cost if your canine companion does develop a serious health problem.
Another way to help keep your canine companion healthy is to take him for regular checkups. The vet may find a small health issue that can be treated easily. However, if they don’t see your dog for years and then find a larger health issue, the problem can be more difficult to treat. So, take your dog to the vet for regular checkups and make sure he receives all required vaccinations. This is one of the best ways to keep your dog healthy, aside from feeding him correctly and ensuring he gets plenty of exercise!
Grooming a Pug Pit Mix
When it comes to grooming, you’ll be happy to hear that Pug Pits are a low-maintenance dog. They have straight, short hair which needs to be brushed about once a week. Brushing helps spread the dog’s natural oils throughout his coat to keep it healthy and shiny.
These dogs do shed, especially during shedding season (about twice a year). Brushing works to remove dead hair and dirt, which means less shedding in your home.
For dogs that have inherited skin folds from their Pug parents, it’s essential to keep these dry and clean. Otherwise, these areas are prone to skin irritation and infections.
Your Pug Pit only needs a bath about once a month, or if he becomes dirty and stinky. In addition, they should have their nails trimmed about every 3-4 weeks. If you’re not comfortable doing this, make sure to take your canine companion to a groomer for nail trims.
Because these dogs are prone to ear infections, it’s essential to keep their ears clean and free of pests.
Pug Pit Diet
Pug Pits are prone to become overweight or obese; for this reason, it’s essential to watch how much your canine friend eats. These dogs love to eat and may try to grab anything that falls on the floor!
When it comes to the dog’s food, make sure it has the right nutrients for this type of dog. Look for dog foods that have these nutrients, recommended by the AAFCO:
- 22% protein for puppies; 18% for adults
- 5 to 8% healthy fats
- Rich in fiber and antioxidants
- Glucosamine and omega fatty acids
- Essential vitamins and minerals
Here’s a chart that explains how much to feed your Pug Pit mix, depending on his weight, age, and activity level:
| Dog’s Weight | Amount of Food (Cups) |
| 5 lbs | ½ to 5/8 cup |
| 10 lbs | ¾ to 1 cup |
| 20 lbs | 1 ¼ to 1 ¾ cups |
For each portion of food on the table above, the amount of food should be divided into two feedings per day or as directed by your vet.
If you’re not sure about what dog food is best or the right amount of food to feed him, then be sure to contact the breeder or the vet. They will have the best advice on what to feed your fur baby. The breeder or the vet has knowledge about your dog and what he needs to stay healthy.
Pug Pit Exercising
The Pug Pit mix requires plenty of exercise, training, and socialization to keep him happy and healthy. When it comes to exercise, the amount depends on which parent the dog takes after. For instance, if they more resemble their Pitbull parent, they may have more energy. They may require a minimum of one hour of exercise a day.
However, if your Pug Pit is more like his Pug parent and is brachycephalic, then he will need an easier, shorter exercise time. This is because brachycephalic dogs have trouble breathing during exercise. They also have a more difficult time breathing in enclosed spaces and hot, humid weather.
Most Pug Pits will benefit from about an hour of exercise a day. If they aren’t exercised, expect your Pug Pit to drive you crazy with barking, growling, and rampaging to rid themselves of excess energy!
Pug Pit Training
Like other dog breeds, Pug Pits benefit from regular training and socialization. If they take after their Pug parent, they may be very friendly and easy-going. However, dogs that are more like their Pitbull parent may be more aggressive and not as social.
Pug Pits that strongly resemble their Pittie parents also tend to have a stubborn, independent streak. They are trainable; however, they require a pet parent who understands how to work with Pitbulls. For this reason, some Pug Pits are not the best dogs for first-time pet parents.
Pug Pits respond best to positive reinforcement training methods. So, make sure you have plenty of treats and hugs ready when your dog performs correctly! Avoid being overly strict with these dogs, as it only makes them more stubborn.
For dogs that are challenging to train, you may want to consider hiring a professional dog trainer. Make sure they have experience training Pitbulls and understand how to work with the breed.
How Much Does a Pug Pit Cost?
The cost of a Pug Pit depends on where you adopt them. For instance, a breeder may charge between $500 to $1400. However, a dog from a shelter may cost between $100 to $300.
In general, dogs adopted from a breeder or shelter in a city tend to cost more. On the other hand, dogs adopted in small cities & towns are usually cheaper.
When looking to adopt a Pug Pit, avoid buying dogs or puppies from a pet shop, backyard breeder, or from a puppy mill. Dogs from these sources are usually not bred and raised in a healthy way. They’re also not trained and socialized. These dogs and puppies may also have genetic health issues. They may look healthy when you buy them, but you may end up suffering heartbreak when the dog or puppy soon becomes seriously ill. Buying from these sources is never a good idea.
Instead, look to adopt a dog or puppy from a reputable breeder or a shelter. These dogs and puppies will have been checked by a vet and received their required vaccinations. They are also well-cared for. Puppies from a reputable breeder will also be healthier, trained, and socialized.
Summing It Up
Pug Pit hybrid dogs can make a cute, loving family companion. They love to snuggle and may either be more of a couch potato or have tons of energy!
No matter what, these are great dogs for family companions! We hope this article helps you find the right dog for you and your family!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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