Puggat

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

For people who prefer a sweet and gentle dog able to sense their moods and act accordingly, the Puggat would be the perfect pet. A cross between the Pug and the American Rat Terrier, the Puggat is a small dog that nevertheless delivers big in the companion department. Combining the older Pug breed and the relatively young Rat Terrier has also resulted in a healthy hybrid that can avoid many of the inherited ailments and conditions of its parent breeds.

The Pug is a dog well-known for its winning personality and its outgoing sociability. For several centuries the favored lap dogs and exclusive domain of Chinese royalty, the Pug was prized as an indoor companion. Introduced to Europe in the16th century, the Pug continued to enjoy royal patronage, even as its popularity slowly spread to the masses.

The American Rat Terrier, oftentimes confused with the Jack Russell Terrier, is a more laid back dog that nevertheless can convey affection and cheer. A terrier originally bred to help around the farm and destroy vermin, the Rat Terrier has good speed and a keen hunting sense. But it does, in turn, enjoy a good laze around the house, and can be a playful companion as well.

Color

The Puggat can come in a variety of colors and patterns, the latter courtesy of the Rat Terrier. Solids may commonly be fawn or black, tri-colored (usually black tan point with white patches), or brindle.

Coat

The Puggat's coat is short, straight, and shiny. Shedding will be average throughout the year.

Personality

The Puggat is a fairly intelligent animal that will be loyal to its owner and be attuned to his well-being. It enjoys attention and affection, and will return them in kind, especially when it senses that its owner can do with a pick-me-up. It will not be a pushy dog, insinuating itself onto laps and under petting hands, if it senses that it could be an unwelcome distraction. This sensitivity, however, could have its downside in that the Puggat could be shy and withdrawn in the company of unknown people and other dogs. Nevertheless, its easygoing personality and all-around eagerness to please makes it a perfect addition to a household.

Care

The Puggat's single coat is very easy to maintain and can be brushed with a soft brush once daily, to maintain shininess and clear away shed hairs. A bath is necessary only to neutralize the dog smell, should not be more than once a month. Wrinkles on the face, if present, should be regularly cleaned and checked for infections.

Training

Early and constant socialization will diminish the Puggat's natural reticence in strange company. This will also make living with other pets a comfortable arrangement. Basic commands can be taught with gentle training, but punishment and harsh handling will damage the dog's personality and worsen a sensitive nature. If a stubborn streak shows, positive rewards and constant repetition over a number of days is best.

Activity

The Puggat will enjoy and benefit from outside exercise, although a leash is recommended, as smaller or wild animals might trigger curiosity or the prey drive. Care should be taken to note if the Puggat starts having difficulty in breathing, a condition often present in Pugs and other breeds with shortened muzzles. Over-exposure to heat and the sun could also trigger a heatstroke, so lots of water is a must. Otherwise, its Rat Terrier heritage will revel in a lot of running and chasing, or tricks that challenge its physical prowess. A well-stimulated Puggat is a happy and contented one.