Puggit

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Puggit is cross between a Pug and an Italian Greyhound. Lithe in build but bred for companionship rather than ability or athleticism, the Puggit is a gentle, even-tempered dog that shows and returns affection, and can play with kids as much as just lounge around the house with the family.

The Italian Greyhound is a selectivly-bred sight hound, and the smallest in its family. Possessed of a slender, graceful build and good speed, the "I.G." or "Iggy" originated from the Mediterranean region and was popularized in Italy, but as much for their temperament and character as for their physical attributes.

The Pug, on the other hand, originated from China and was a lap dog to royals and nobles. An indoor breed given to affectionate play and antics, the Pug was brought over to Europe where it quickly gained popularity for its charm and sociability.

Color

The Puggit can take after any combination of its parent breeds' colors, or appear in just one. The Pug can be black, silver, fawn, or apricot, while the Italian Greyhound also ranges in coat color, except black and tan or brindle.

Coat

The coat will be short and soft, flat-lying and close to the skin.

Personality

The Puggit is a quiet dog that will get on well in a household of older people. However, their gentleness and affectionate nature also means they are good with children, as long as the children are old enough to understand how not to injure the dog with rough play. The Puggit is generally not aggressive, and will get along great with other dogs. Smaller pets, however, if not raised with the Puggit, could be at risk because of the prey drive in its parentage. The Puggit is not a pushy, obnoxious dog, and while it will thrive on displays of affection, it will not attach itself to its owner and insist on being petted. Fairly intelligent and obedient, it will provide a loyal companionship that does not demand much more than affection in return. it can be reserved with people not properly introduced, and will definitely bark at strangers and unfamiliar sounds.

Care

Grooming and maintenance is very minimal for this breed, because of its short coat. An average shedder, the Puggit will not need much more than a twice-weekly brushing to get rid of shed hairs and maintain a shiny coat. A run outside will need a wipe-down afterwards to get rid of burrs and dirt, but bathing will be needed only monthly, if that, as the breed does not smell much. Daily brushing of the teeth is recommended, to prevent food buildup.

Training

The Puggit can be withdrawn and shy around other dogs and people if not properly socialized from puppyhood. A well-rounded Puggit, however, can be confident and outgoing. It is reward-motivated and will quickly learn basic commands, but consistency and patience are needed if it sometimes balks and shows a bit of independence during sessions.

Activity

Taking after its Italian Greyhound parent, the Puggit will need regular exercise to suitably work out its athletic frame. Younger puppies will benefit from daily exercise, to get rid of excess energy. However, strenous activity is not needed to tire out this breed. A walk or run in an off-leash park will enable it to indulge its hunting insticts. If not possible, tricks or play in a fenced-in yard can be sufficient exercise. Agility courses with an experienced trainer can be taken.