Pugwich

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Pugwich is a cross between the Pug and the Norwich Terrier. Both parent breeds being favored indoor companions and family pets, the Pugwich is unsurprisingly a perfect addition to any home with its winning personality, cheerful disposition, and penchant for play.

Both the Pug and the Norwich Terrier are small-to-medium breeds that have a streak of independence and stubbornness, and yet are prized as companions that, once attached to their owners, are loyal, sensitive and affectionate.

The Pug originated in China, and depictions of ancient dynasties show this breed as favorite lap dogs. Small yet with a well-balanced, sturdy body, the Pug is one of the more distinctive dog breeds, due to its size, its bulging eyes above a flattened snout, and the wrinkly folds of skin on its face. This breed can suffer from a number of ailments, so careful testing and eventual care is needed.

The Norwich Terrier is an English breed that was originally for vermin-control and hunting, as well as indoor companionship. They don't thrive well in kennels or being away from their owners; constant human company keeps them happy. Intelligent and trainable, Norwich Terriers need regular activity and stimulation to keep them from getting bored and unhappy.

Color

Pugwiches would most commonly be black, although other coat colors are red, shades of brown and yellow or grizzle, depending on which parent's genes are most dominant. A black mask could be present.

Coat

Pugs have a smooth, glossy single coat, while Norwich Terriers have a double coat. The top coat is coarse and wiry, and longer than the undercoat, which is softer. The Pugwich can inherit either parent's coat.

Personality

The Pugwich, properly socialized, will never be a shy, boring companion. Gifted with confident, assertive parents, this breed will thrive in an active household and do well with playful children. Territoriality and aggressiveness are low, so other animals and pets can coexist peaceably with the Pugwich. Smaller pets, though, such as hamsters, might switch on the prey drive; supervision will be needed. Pugwiches will actively seek out their owners' attention and affection. They will not do well isolated, or away from their owners for extended periods of time. Smart as well as stubborn, the Pugwich could very well provide an exasperating diversion for its owner. Its cheerfulness and docility, though, outweigh the kinks in its personality.

Care

Daily brushing a longish double-coat. This will help remove loose hair and prevent mats or snarls. Hand-stripping is best for maintaining the coat's appearance and results in lesser grooming requirements. Bathing is recommended only as needed. Wrinkles, if any, merit special care, as not properly or efficiently cleaning these can leave a breeding place for infections.

Training

Training, as with all other breeds, is best started young. Gentle yet consistent commands will help with the Pugwich's headstrong streak, and crate training is best for housebreaking. Sensitive and affectionate, the Pugwich can be negatively affected by harsh commands. Rewards and praise will go a long way towards the desired behavior.

Activity

Pugwiches love activity and being outdoors. Though they are perfect for indoor living because of their size, they will nevertheless require 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day, to take care of stored energy and help keep their weight down. Leashed walks are best, as these curious and fearless dogs will be off like a shot to investigate curious sights and sounds, as well as other dogs it meets.