Pushon

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Pushon is an adorable companion dog bred from two breeds known for having had their turn in some of the world's most distinguished laps.

The Pug, a small-to-medium breed originating from China, has won over several august personages with its squashed-looking face, round, bulging eyes, and small, compact build. Aside from being a favored pet in ancient Chinese dynasties, the Pug was brought to and graced Europe's royal houses as well, finding favor with French, English, and Italian royalites, to name a few. Breed enthusiasts often describe the breed's personality as multum in parvo, "much in little."

The Bichon Frise, a breed from the Mediterranean region, was favored by Spanish and Italian sailors for their cheerful company aboard ships in the 13th and 14th centuries. Traded often, they found their way to France and flourished, where the name Bichon Frise, meaning "curly white lap dog," stuck.

Color

Pugs are more commonly fawn or black, with other colors being grey and apricot. Bichon Frises are predominantly white, variants may be grey or apricot. A Pushon could be either of its parents' solid coat colors, with occasional markings of buff or tan around ears, muzzle, and paws. A black mask and forelegs signal Pug inheritance.

Coat

The coat can be a single layer of short and shiny hair, or a double coat with a long, curly top coat and a softer, denser undercoat.

Personality

The Pushon can be a wonderful indoors dog, perfect for households with children and those that appreciate an energetic and eager-to-please dog. The Pushon is a people dog, and would prefer to be around its owners all the time. They will seek contact, and will sit in laps or sleep in beds with their owners. They love attention, and will gladly play and do tricks if it means they get all the cheers and applause. They can be playful with other animals as well, and will rarely exhibit timidity. They do bark -- or yap -- at intrusive strangers, but will socialize well enough after being properly introduced.

Care

Special care should be taken with the double coat and wrinkly face, if inherited. The coat should be regularly brushed, to get rid of shed hair, which could get matted and snarled in the curls. Attention to cleaning the folds and wrinkles in the skin is important, as these areas could breed infections if not fully cleaned. Bathing every month or so will be sufficient, and professional grooming is best every 3 - 4 months.

Training

Puppies are best crate-trained, but most owners will find little trouble in house-breaking the Pushon. Their playful nature and willingness to please make them ideal for tricks. Effusive praise and treats will ensure a positive outcome in the desire behavior.

Activity

Puppies are best crate-trained, but most owners will find little trouble in house-breaking the Pushon. Their playful nature and willingness to please make them ideal for tricks. Effusive praise and treats will ensure a positive outcome in the desire behavior.