Puggat is a hybrid of the Pug and the Rat Terrier. At his best, this dog is undeniably affectionate, people-friendly, loyal, trainable best friend. This intriguing mixed breed is also known as the Rug Rat. This pint-sized pup has the biggest spirit to share.
It’s often assumed that a mixed dog will combine the best of purebred breeds, but genetics doesn’t always work that way. It would help if you kept this in mind before investing your money and time for a dog that you thought to be healthier than its purebred parents.
Puggat History
Knowing Puggat’s history is important to understand why he may have been created and what character traits may have been passed down to him based on his ancestors. Unfortunately, the Pug’s history is not so clear, while it is an ancient dog breed that has been recorded as part of the royal landscape of China. This toy-sized dog was the cherished companion of the Chinese royalty, which presented to them everywhere worldwide. Finally, in 1885 the American Kennel Club officially recognized it.
On the other hand, the Rat Terrier is truly an American dog coming from a lineage of Fox Terriers and other European Terriers (Bull Terriers, Manchester Terriers, and English White Terriers). Later, the breeders also added whippets, Beagles, and Greyhounds to their progeny. We can trace its origin to the early 1900s where this dog was used as a farm dog, herding dog, and vermin hunter. In 1999 the UKC registered it officially the AKC accepted it in 2013.
Puggat Characteristics
Puggat is a small-sized dog with varying traits. He may have medium flop-down ears like the Pug or long erect ears like the Rat Terrier. Its feet are small and arched, and its back is normally strong and slightly arched. The coat can be silky, medium length, and feathering on the ears, chest, body, and legs. He will have a buckskin coat with shades from light cream to golden tan.
How Big to Puggat Get
An adult Puggat weighs around 12-20 lbs. Besides, he will likely stand around 11-16 tall at the shoulders. Thus, the female dog is comparatively smaller than its male counterpart.
How Long Does Puggat Live
Puggat gets on well with children and will need regular exercise to keep fit and happy. The one disadvantage with this hybrid is that it has a relatively short lifespan. However, with great care and attention, it can live for about 12 years.
How Much Does a Puggat Cost
If you love the look of Puggat, you will be happy to know that the price for this hybrid canine isn’t that expensive, between $300 and $700. Sometimes, the price can go up to $800, but this dog is generally priced reasonably.
Puggat Temperament/Personality
Puggat is described as friendly, enthusiastic, loyal, and playful. The high intelligence and desire to please make them trainable and extremely entertaining. Their personalities can vary but typically will fall in the middle of parental traits.
In general, these dogs are considered to be very affectionate, kind, and loyal. They are naturally playful and get along well with small kids and other small pets. However, they may tend towards being too energetic for sedentary household life. Like all other dogs, the Puggats tend to be happier when they receive a great deal of mental stimulation and exercise.
He is not an overly excitable dog but can lead to negative behaviors if he lacks a good bit of energy. Socialize your furry fellow from an early age and ensure he gets adequate daily exercise and activity to prevent the development of problem behaviors.
Caring for Puggat
Your Puggat is easy to care for as he has little dietary, exercise, and grooming needs. The detail of its needs and requirements is given in the following heading.
Puggat Nutrition
Every canine is different and has its own needs. It is true when it comes to choosing your pup’s diet as well. Give it the high-quality kibble that is Grain-Free and Organic. Only a vet is qualified to specify a dog’s food depending on his age, activity levels, and needs. So, make sure you go for a veterinary-approved diet.
How to Groom a Puggat
The shedding of Puggat is considered low. He will require brushing with a Dog Brush at least once a week to keep the coat updated. Trim his long fur regularly with Dog Grooming Clippers to keep the long hair from affecting the eyes. Puggat falls into the low smell and drooling categories of canine, so that you may use a Dog Deodorizer.
Puggat Activity Levels
Daily walks, romps in the dog park or the fenced yard coupled with different games will keep your Puggat physically and mentally exercised and engaged. This pup doesn’t do well in extreme climates, so heavy exercise in winter will keep them warm and minimum exercise in summer will make them comfortable.
Caring for Puggat
Your Puggat can get along with other pets if introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. So, ensure early training and socialization to keep the pup in the best of its behavior. Trim his nails with Nail Clippers for Dogs before they get too long–they should not be clicking against the floor.
Because he is a people-oriented dog, never think for a minute that he’ll adapt to life in the backyard or an outdoor kennel. However, he does his best when surrounded by people.
Puggat Health
Puggat may be prone to its parental health conditions if careful and proper breeding is not ensured. He can get Pug Dog Encephalitis, Dry Eye, Entropion, Ectropion, Canine Hip Dysplasia, Allergies, Brachycephalic Syndrome, Ear Infections, and Skin Conditions. Your vet can help you develop a health and care routine that will keep your canine healthy. Ultimately your pup will have increased longevity.
Breeds Similar to Puggat
Best Dog Food For Puggat
The best dog food for Puggat is Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. It provides all essential nutrition that active dogs need without excess calories. The live probiotics present in this delicious dry food also promote a healthy digestive system and metabolism.
- Made from shredded chicken and quality rice, it has a unique texture and taste that pets love.
- Promotes the growth of intestinal fauna for better digestion.
- Contains natural ingredients without any artificial flavors, soy, or chicken by-products.
Best Puppy Food For Puggat
The best puppy food for Puggat is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe. This delicious recipe is balanced with real meat, whole grains, veggies, and antioxidants for better health and development. Full of protein and carbs, it provides optimum nutrition for growing pups.
- Supports better vision and cognitive development.
- Contains calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth.
- Essential vitamins and minerals help in developing a better immune system, while omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and lustrous hair.
Best Dog Crate For Puggat
The best dog crate for Puggat is Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Dog Crate since it can be his very own cozy home. The double door keeps him safe at all times, while the corner stabilizers prevent noise and disturbance. Comes with rubber feet and a removable pan that prevents scratches on the floor and makes it easier to clean.
- A convenient sliding door gives easy access to the pet inside.
- The bottom is water-resistant, easy to clean, and prevents the crate from sliding across the floor.
- Made from sturdy material with a dust-resistant coating.
Best Dog Bed For Puggat
The best dog bed for Puggat is FurHaven Calming Cuddler Long Fur Donut Bolster Dog Bed. Manufactured to soothe anxious pets so that they can enjoy a relaxed sleep at night. Perfect for pets who like to snuggle up on soft, luxurious fur that keeps them warm and comfortable.
- The soft bolstered edges provide comfort and support to his joints and paws.
- Designed to relax sensitive pets and induce deep sleep.
- The bed is machine washable and easy to clean.
Best Dog Harness For Puggat
The best dog harness for Puggat is PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness. This harness comes in beautiful colors and is designed to avoid unnecessary pulling on the leash. The comfortable material with multiple adjustment points makes it fit snugly around his chest, making walks much more fun.
- Comes with quick snap buckles and differently colored straps so that you can easily put on and remove the harness.
- The multiple adjustment points make it easy to fit almost any sized dog.
- Very helpful for pet parents who want to train their pets to walk on the leash.
Sources:
Recommended Reading:
- Best Dog Food
- Best Dog Bowl
- Best Automatic Dog Feeder
- Best Interactive Dog Toys
- Best Dog Playpen
- Best Outdoor Dog Kennel
- Best Dog House
- Best Dog Crate
- Best Dog Treat
- Best Automatic Fetch Machine
- Best Dog Activity Monitor
- Best Dog Food Container
- Best Electronic Dog Door
- Best Dog Ramp
- Best Dog Cooling Vest
- Best GPS Tracker for Dogs
- Best Dog Bed
- Best Dog Cooling Pad
- Best Indestructible Dog Bed
- Best Dog Training Book
