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Do you like the idea of having a playful, energetic dog that can also be a bit of a couch potato? If so, the Husky Pug mix may be the perfect breed for you.
This dog was bred to have the best of both worlds – they are happy and loving companions but also have enough energy to keep up with an active family.
This post will discuss all there is to know about Pugskies, including their history, physical appearance, coat colors, size, temperament, and much more.
Let’s jump right in.
Table of Contents
What Is a Pugski?
The Husky Pug mix is a hybrid dog that was developed by crossing a Siberian Husky with a Pug.
This mixed breed inherits the best qualities from both of its parent breeds and is an intelligent, friendly, and loyal companion. They are also known for being very playful and have a lot of energy – making them the perfect family pet.
Another couple of other common names for this mixed breed is a Hug Dog and Pug Husky mix.
Husky Pug Mix History: What Were They Bred For?
Pugskies are a relatively new designer dog breed, and their history is quite short and somewhat unknown.
However, we do know that they were first bred in the United States sometime in the 1990s. They were bred primarily as companion dogs but also make excellent watchdogs and family pets.
This hybrid dog is still quite rare. However, their popularity has been slowly but steadily growing in recent years.
Brief Siberian Husky History
The Siberian Husky is a member of the Spitz family, which includes dogs such as the Pomeranian, the Alaskan Malamute, and the Samoyed.
These dogs were used by the Chukchi people for centuries. They were prized for their ability to pull heavy loads over long distances in harsh conditions.
The Chukchi people also used them as watchdogs and companions and even slept with them to stay warm at night. In 1909, a team of Siberian Huskies was brought to Alaska to compete in the All-Alaska Sweepstakes, an annual dogsled race.
The team won the race, and the popularity of the Siberian Husky began to spread.
Today, these dogs are still prized for their abilities as working dogs, but they also make wonderful pets. They are known for being friendly, gentle, intelligent, and devoted to their families.
Brief Pug History
Pugs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With their big eyes, distinct facial features, and compact bodies, they’re impossible to resist.
But there’s more to these dogs than meets the eye. Pugs have a long and fascinating history that dates back centuries.
Pugs are thought to have originated in China, where they were bred as companions for Chinese emperors. They were so valued that they were kept in pampered luxury, and there were strict laws prohibiting their ownership by anyone outside the imperial court.
In 16th century Europe, pugs became popular among royals and nobles and soon became fashionable pets among the upper classes. Queen Victoria was a particular fan of the breed, and her love for pugs helped make them one of England’s most popular dog breeds.
Pugs eventually made their way to America, where they quickly gained popularity as family pets.
Husky Pug Mix Appearance & Traits
Size (Weight & Height)
The Husky Pug mix is a medium-sized dog that typically weighs between 20 and 45 pounds. They can range in height from 12 to 20 inches at the shoulder.
Depending on which parent breed they take after, more will impact how big, or small they are as adults.
Also, as with other dogs, females of this mixed breed are slightly shorter and lighter, whereas males tend to be taller and heavier.
Coat Colors & Texture
The Pug Husky mix can have a coat that is either short or long, and it is typically dense and thick. The most common coat colors are black, brown, fawn, silver, and white.
They may also have markings in cream, gray, or red.
Shedding & Grooming
Pugskies are moderate shedders. They shed year-round and will shed more during the spring and fall.
Brushing them regularly (several times per week) will help to reduce the amount of hair that is shed around your home.
If you don’t have the time to clean up after them throughout the week, a helpful gadget many people use is a robot vacuum. They help keep the floors of your home looking presentable until you have time to do a more thorough cleaning.
When it comes to the other areas of grooming, they require a similar amount of maintenance.
Their ears should be cleaned, and their nails should be trimmed monthly. In addition, their teeth should be cleaned at least three times per week, and they should have a bath every 2-3 months.
Are Husky Pug Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No, the Siberian Husky Pug mix is not hypoallergenic. While they are not the heaviest of shedders, they do shed year-round and will shed more during the spring and fall.
If you have allergies, it is best to spend time with a Husky Pug mix to see how you react to them before you decide to adopt one.
Ears & Tail
One of the most distinguishing features of the Husky Pug mix is their ears. They have pointy, triangular-shaped ears that stand erect on top of their head.
Their tail is another feature that sets them apart from other dogs. It is long and thick, and it typically curves upwards. Though, they can have a straight tail as well.
Eye Color
The eyes of a Husky Pug mix are one of their most striking features. They typically have brown eyes, but they can also have hazel, green, or even blue eyes.
It is not uncommon for them to have one blue eye and one brown eye, which is a condition known as heterochromia.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Husky Pug mix is 12 to 15 years.
This is a reasonably average lifespan for dogs of their size. But, their lifespan is also affected by factors such as diet, exercise, genetics, and overall health.
Common Health Issues
The Husky Pug mix is a relatively healthy dog breed. However, like all dogs, they are susceptible to certain health conditions.
Some of the most common health problems that affect Huskies Pugs include hip dysplasia, allergies, patellar luxation, eye problems, and epilepsy.
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness.
Allergies are also fairly common in these dogs, and they can cause skin problems, gastrointestinal issues, and respiratory problems.
Patellar luxation is a condition that affects the knee joint and can cause pain and lameness.
Eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma are also relatively common in Husky Pugs.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can cause seizures. While it is not curable, it is manageable with medication.
The best way to ensure a Husky Pug mix stays healthy is to take them for regular check-ups with the vet, give them plenty of exercise, and to feed them a high-quality diet.
Trainability & Intelligence
A Husky Pug mix is a relatively smart dog. When it comes to their intelligence compared to other dogs, they are considered average.
They can be quick learners but will typically take between 25-40 repetitions to learn a new trick/behavior.
This is about average for dogs. Some breeds can learn a new trick/behavior in as little as 5 repetitions, while others may take up to 80 repetitions.
Because of this, Husky Pugs are considered to be reasonably easy to train. However, they can sometimes be stubborn and independent, so patience is key.
Like all dogs, they require early socialization and obedience training.
The best way to train a Husky Pug mix is with positive reinforcement methods such as praise, treats, and toys.
Activity Level & Exercise Needs
The Husky Pug mix is a relatively active dog. They require at least 30-60 minutes of exercise per day, though they can benefit from more if possible.
The best way to exercise a Husky Pug mix is with a combination of daily walks and playtime.
This breed does not do well in hot weather, so it is important to exercise them during cooler times of the day.
They also love to play in the snow, so if you live in a colder climate, they will love that.
Mental stimulation is also important to incorporate into their daily life. This can be in the form of obedience training, puzzle toys, and interactive games.
A tired Husky Pug mix is a good Husky Pug mix. If they are not given enough opportunities for physical & mental stimulation, they may become bored and destructive.
Temperament & Behavior
Do Husky Pug Mixes Bark A Lot?
The Husky Pug mix is not typically an excessive barker. However, they may bark when they are excited, bored, or anxious.
Do Husky Pug Mixes Like To Cuddle?
The Husky Pug mix is a relatively affectionate dog. They enjoy spending time with their family and often want to cuddle and be close to their owner.
However, each dog is slightly different. Which means some may prefer to have their space.
The best way to ensure they enjoy cuddling is to cuddle with them often when they are young puppies. The more positive experiences they have with this type of closeness, the more they will want to continue to do it.
Are Husky Pug Mixes Good With Kids?
The Husky Pug mix is a good dog for families with kids. They are typically patient, gentle, and loving around children.
However, each dog is different, and some may not do well with kids if they have not been properly socialized or trained.
It is always important to supervise the initial interactions between dogs and children to ensure everyone is playing nice and is safe and happy.
Are Husky Pug Mixes Good With Other Dogs?
The Husky Pug mix typically does well with other dogs. They are a social breed that loves to play and be around others.
But, they still need socialization opportunities when young to ensure they learn how to behave around other dogs.
When choosing other dogs for them to be around, it’s important you choose well-behaved dogs that will teach them how to behave appropriately. Having them socialize with a poorly trained dog will only ensure they also behave poorly.
Are Husky Pug Mixes Good With Strangers?
The Husky Pug mix is a friendly breed that does well with strangers. They are not typically aggressive or shy around new people.
However, they should still be properly socialized when young to ensure they are comfortable around new people and new situations.
If they are too isolated, they can become anxious around new people because they aren’t familiar with how to act around strangers.
Are Husky Pug Mixes Good Apartment Dogs?
The Husky Pug mix can do well in an apartment if they are given enough exercise. While they aren’t too big or active, they still need a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day.
More is better.
But, the best way to ensure they are happy in an apartment is to make sure they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. This can be in the form of daily walks, playtime, obedience training, puzzle toys, and interactive games.
How Much Is a Hug Dog?
The average price for a Husky Pug mix puppy is between $500 and $1500. However, this price can be higher or lower depending on many factors, such as the breeder, bloodline, location, coat color, and more.
However, unfortunately, because they are a newer designer breed and not terribly popular quite yet, you may struggle to find one.
If you do happen to find one, always make sure you are working with a reputable breeder.
There are many unethical breeders out there who are looking to make a quick buck by selling sick or unhealthy puppies.
Where Can You Find a Husky Pug Mix For Sale?
If you are looking for a Husky Pug mix puppy for sale, the best place to start is online.
However, since they aren’t super popular and not many breeders produce them, you’ll have to look at Husky and Pug mix sections.
A good place to start looking is on breeder directory websites. Sites like AKC’s Marketplace, Greenfield Puppies, Lancaster Puppies, etc.
These websites get breeders from across the country to list their puppies for people to look at.
As previously mentioned, you’ll have to look at the separate Pug mix and Husky mix sections to see if they have any Hug Dogs available.
Again, always make sure you are working with a reputable breeder when looking to get a Husky Pug mix for sale.
You can also try your luck at a local animal shelter or rescue.
Similar Breeds To The Husky Pug Mix
- Pug Bulldog mix (AKA the Bullpug)
- The French Bulldog Husky mix
- Retro Pug (AKA Pug & Jack Russell mix)
- Shih Tzu Husky mix (AKA the Shih Tzusky)
Final Thoughts
The Pug and Husky mix is a unique and special dog that would make a great addition to any family.
They are a loving and loyal breed that takes the best features from their Pug parent and Husky parent. The Husky and the Pug make a great combination.
They aren’t over-active dogs but need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.
If you think the Husky Pug mix is the right dog for you, make sure you find a reputable breeder to purchase your puppy from.
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