The Pitbull Pug mix combines two dogs that have similar statures, but very different personalities to create an intriguing family pet, with an excitable side and a loyal personality. Whether you ran into this breed by accident or wanted to try a hybrid of this type for a while (two smaller dogs), the “Pit Pug” will give you many years of devoted love and affection.
Pitbull Pug Mix – At a Glance
| Weight: | 25 – 40 pounds |
| Height: | 14 – 18 inches |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 15 years |
| Coat Colors: | Merle, Brindle, Fawn, Black, Grey, Black & White |
| Temperament: | Loyal, affectionate, stubborn & playful |
| Most Suitable For: | Families with or without children, single individuals & the elderly |
What Does a Pitbull Pug Mix Look Like?
The Pitbull Pug mix borrows a healthy amount of physical features from both parents, though facially it will almost exclusively look like a Pug – though its skull and face won’t appear quite as squished (think hit once but not twice with a frying pan). It will be short and stocky, with muscular legs and a leaner, slightly longer body than your traditional Pug. They can have ears that either flop to the side and are slightly cropped (like the Pug), or that flop forward and are more triangular (like the Pitbull).
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The History of the Pitbull Pug Mix
As with most hybrid dogs, the Pitbull Pug mix has only been around for a very short time – though its exact lineage is difficult to trace, most hybrid dogs such as the Pitbull/Pug have been created in the last twenty or thirty years.
All is not lost, however – as with most hybrid dogs – you can learn about what to expect from their parent breeds, so we’ll dive history of both the Pitbull and the Pug and give you some idea of what your future Pit/Pug will be like!
The History of the Pitbull
The Pitbull has its origins in the United Kingdom in the 19th century – sometime around the early part of the century – when they were bred as “bull baiting” dogs. When these poor animals were sent into fields to harass bull cows, usually until the dog collapsed from exhaustion. Following this practice, the British Government enacted the Cruelty to Animals Act in 1835. Those that enjoyed watching the Pitbulls for sport, decided to change tacks and pitted Pitbulls against rats – and against other Pitbulls – in horrible bloodsports.
Nowadays, these practices are outlawed and thus the Pitbull is a companion dog for many families across the world. However, given their violent history, many governments around the world have banned the ownership of Pitbulls, including many American states.
How Popular Are Pitbulls in the United States?
As mentioned, many American states have banned Pitbull ownership outright and many American cities in states where it is not banned have done the same. The American Kennel Club also doesn’t recognize Pitbulls, therefore keeps no statistics as to their popularity.
However, other statistics would indicate that the Pitbull is quite popular in the “strong dog” category, making up 20% of “strong” dogs in the country.
Who Are Pitbulls a Good Dog For?
Given their size and strength, Pitbulls are best suited for families without children or single individuals who can handle that type of dog. Pitbulls aren’t generally recommended for families with small children or the elderly.
How Did Pitbulls Come About?
Pitbulls were bred for violence in the United Kingdom in the early 19th century and used as fighting dogs and “bull baiting” dogs – they would be sent into fields to harass bulls. This changed to rat fighting and dog fighting after 1835 when the British government outlawed “bull baiting” with the Cruelty to Animals Act.
When Did We First Cross-Breed Pitbulls?
Given their history as a violent breed of dog with temper issues, there is not much available history of the Pitbull being crossbred, as they have been mostly outlawed across much of the Western world. For this reason, the history of cross-breeding Pitbulls isn’t readily available.
The History of the Pug
The Pug has its own roots as far back as ancient China, around 400 CE, where they were bred as companion animals for wealthy Chinese nobility, including Chinese monarchs. In the 16th century, Pugs were brought to Europe from China and popularized by the royal Houses of Orange and the House of Stuart. They even found their way into the court of Queen Victoria of England in the 19th century.
The pug has long been a companion dog, and though no longer exclusively associated with royalty, it remains a particularly popular dog across the West and North America.
How Popular Are Pugs in the United States?
Despite their popularity in other parts of the world, Pugs maintain an average level of popularity in the United States, ranking 33rd in last year’s AKC most-popular rankings.
Who Are Pugs a Good Dog For?
Pugs are fantastic companion dogs for just about everyone due to their laidback, laissez-faire nature. They’ve found homes among the old and young and are faithful companions to all if a little stubborn at times.
How Did Pugs Come About?
Pugs were bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty and nobility before being brought to Europe in the 16th century. The exact history of which dogs were bred together to create the pug is difficult to come by.
When Did We First Cross-Breed Pugs?
Given the ancient age of the Pug, it’s hard to imagine that they were not crossbred with other dogs throughout the centuries, particularly following their importation to Europe – though documentation on the nature and timing of that crossbreeding is difficult to come by.
Today, however, they are a popular crossbreed with a variety of different types of dogs, from those who are size matches for the Pug to medium-sized dogs.
How Important Is a Dog’s Temperament to Your Family?
One of the most important factors when considering adopting or purchasing a hybrid, or even purebred dog is whether or not it is a temperamental match for you and your family. If you have an active family, then you need to ensure that you have an active dog to match with, likewise, if your family is more laid back, you might not want to pick up an active dog that requires lots of time and energy.
Temperamental mismatches are one of the main reasons why dogs are rehomed, or brought back to the shelters from which they came. Make sure that you do your homework before considering adopting any dog.
What is the Temperament of the Pitbull Pug Mix?
The Pitbull Pug mix has a very complimentary temperament – the usual power and excitability of the Pitbull are somewhat calmed by the Pug’s usually calm demeanour, making for a much less menacing dog. However, both dogs are extremely loyal and loving, so expect aloofness with strangers and lots of love and kisses for friends and family!
Are Pitbull Pug Mixes Friendly?
In general, Pitbull Pug mixes are friendly. They tend to gain their more friendly side from the Pug.
Are Pitbull Pug Mixes Easy to Train?
Despite the Pug’s stubborn nature, Pitbull Pug mixes are usually easy to train.
How Much Can Pitbull Pug Mixes Weigh?
Pitbull Pug mixes can weigh between 20 and 40 pounds.
How Tall Can Pitbull Pug Mixes Get?
These shorter dogs will reach somewhere between 14 and 18 inches tall.
Similar Sized Breeds
Among the breeds that are of similar size to the Pitbull Pug mix are the Lugador (Labrador Retriever/Pug), Pugsky (Pug/Siberian Husky), Bugg (Boston Terrier/Pug), and the Dogo Argentino.
Does the Pitbull Pug Mix Shed?
Luckily, the Pitbull Pug is not a heavy shedder. While it does shed, its fine coat isn’t going to have you brushing it every week. Though, of course, proper maintenance of once every two weeks is recommended.
How Much Exercise Does A Pitbull Pug Mix Require?
Despite their small size, the Pitbull Pug mix inherits a decent amount of restlessness from its Pitbull parents and therefore will need a moderate amount of exercise. Budget for at least 30 minutes of walking every day.
How Long Can a Pitbull Pug Mix Live?
The average lifespan of the Pitbull/Pug mix is between 10 and 15 years.
What Health Conditions Could the Pitbull Pug Mix Have?
- Gastric Dilation Volvulus (commonly known as Bloat).
- Pug Dog Encephalitis
- Canine Distemper
How Can You Find a Pitbull Pug Mix Puppy For Sale?
We recommend that you look into adopting a Pitbull Pug before you go through the process of buying a puppy. This can be done through a local animal shelter or veterinary office. You can also look online for Pitbull Pug mixes to adopt. AdoptaPet.com has some great search capabilities for those looking locally.
How Much Does a Pitbull Pug Mix Puppy Cost?
When it comes to costs to purchase a Pitbull Pug pup, there are a variety of factors including breeder, pedigree and location. However, most Pitbull/Pug mixes can be purchased for anywhere between $500 and $2500 USD.
For those seeking a breeder, we recommend you look at the AKC’s advice on finding a reputable breeder before beginning your search.
Is the Pitbull Pug Mix the Right Breed For You?
The Pitbull Pug mix is a great option for anyone seeking a companion pet for your family – or just yourself! Their loyalty and loving nature are second to none and their lack of hyperactivity makes them a good fit for the elderly as well.
If you’ve been looking for a short-haired, small dog to add to your home, then the Pitbull Pug mix might just be what you’ve been looking for.
Nick Meagher
I'm Nick Meagher, a lifelong dog enthusiast and the voice behind this blog. Having grown up with dogs, I've developed a deep understanding and an unbreakable bond with these amazing companions. Through MyK9Life, I aim to share insights, tips, and heartwarming stories, celebrating the joy and journey of life with our four-legged friends.
