Pugs are a charming and lovable dog breed. There are several subtypes within the pug category, denoted by key features. One of the rarest and most desirable pug types is the Brindle Pug.
Brindle pugs are an unusual and mysterious variation of the pug, with unique fur coats that dog owners find remarkably attractive. These dogs are so uncommon that some dog owners are hesitant to buy them due to concerns about health problems.
The distinct look of rare brindle pugs makes them appealing to many people, but their rarity leaves potential pug owners with questions. Read on to learn all about brindle pugs and how to take care of them.
What Are Brindle Pugs?
A brindle pug is a type of pug distinguished by its unique fur pattern. Most pugs have a black or fawn-colored coat, but brindle pugs have a multicolored coat. Brindle pugs are known for their patterned coats with light and dark stripes.
Aside from the unusual multicolored pattern on the fur, brindle dogs have all of the same features as regular pugs. They have flat, wrinkled faces, large round eyes, and square-shaped bodies.
Most brindle pugs have a fur pattern with a prominent light color, but reverse brindle pugs have fur patterns with a noticeable dark shade.
Because brindle pugs are so rare, pug enthusiasts remain divided on whether brindle pugs are desirable. Some pug lovers view brindle pugs as exotic and thus a remarkable find. Other pug experts argue that this fur pattern is a genetic anomaly and a sign that the pug is not an authentic purebred.
How Are Brindle Pugs Bred?
Depending on one’s perspective, brindle pugs may or may not be purebred. Based on the American Kennel Club’s breed standard for pugs, a purebred pug should only have a fur coat that is black or fawn.
Following the breed standard criteria, a brindle pug is not a purebred pug. Instead, a brindle pug is the result of a recessive gene or crossbreeding. However, some research into the DNA of brindle pugs suggests that a genetically purebred pug can be born with a brindle fur pattern.
Because so many pugs with multicolored fur patterns are mixed breeds, it’s easy for new dog owners to be manipulated into paying a purebred price for a mixed breed dog under the guise that it’s a purebred brindle pug.
If a breeder claims that a dog is a purebred brindle pug instead of a pug mix, be sure to ask for certification to verify the pug’s lineage.
Are Brindle Pugs Rare?
Brindle pugs are extremely rare. Experts estimate that only around one percent of all purebred pugs are born with a brindle pattern on their fur coats.
These speckled pugs are rare for a few reasons. To begin with, the American Kennel Club doesn’t officially recognize brindle pugs as purebred pugs, even though brindle pugs can descend from purebred lineages. Consequently, many breeders use selective breeding practices that intentionally avoid brindle pugs.
The other reason for the rarity of brindle pugs comes down to genetics. Like red hair for humans, the gene that causes a brindle fur pattern simply isn’t typical or dominant in the pug gene pool. It would take both parents carrying the gene, as well as some random luck, for a purebred pug to be a brindle pug.
So, how much are brindle pugs? Unfortunately, the rarity of brindle pugs makes them abnormally expensive. If your heart is set on getting an authentic purebred brindle pug, be prepared to spend a large amount of money. The cost of a purebred brindle pug can be as high as $2,000.
Brindle Pugs and Health Problems
Although many people express concerns about the unusual fur pattern being an indicator of congenital health problems, brindle pugs shouldn’t have any greater risk of health problems than their black and fawn counterparts.
Purebred pugs are at high risk for many health problems. The most notorious problem with pugs is their brachycephalic syndrome. This condition causes their adorable squished faces, but it also causes a blocked airway that can lead to respiratory distress and heatstroke.
Like other pugs, brindle pugs require special care to accommodate their breathing disability, including watching their weight since obesity will aggravate their breathing problems. They are also prone to eye problems, such as corneal ulcers and a brain condition called encephalitis, which causes seizures.
Brindle dogs may not have additional health problems, but the inherent health problems of a purebred pug are certainly worth considering when deciding if a pug is a good fit for you and your family.
Are Brindle Pugs Good Dogs?
Brindle pugs make wonderful pets. Like black and fawn pugs, brindle pugs are highly affectionate and friendly with humans. Playful and mischievous, pugs love attention and can become sad and anxious when their owner is away.
Additionally, pugs have a good reputation for being good with children and comfortable around other animals. This quality makes pugs an ideal choice for families with young kids or people who already have other pets.
The major downside to pugs is their severe health problems. Taking care of a pet’s medical issues requires large amounts of money and time and can be an emotional strain that some dog owners can’t take on.
Some people prefer to buy a crossbreed pug to avoid those health issues and encourage breeders to breed more mixed pugs. A mixed-breed will have the great qualities of a pug but with some genetic diversity that lowers the risk of inherited illnesses.
A mixed pug may be a good compromise if you like the look of brindle pugs. A mixed pug with a brindle pattern will have everything you love about this funky and unusual pug subtype while forgoing the high price tag and troublesome health issues.
Final Thoughts on Brindle Pugs
Brindle pugs may not count as a purebred to official organizations, but their genetics indicate that they are still the real deal. These rare and beautiful pugs are affectionate, playful pups that you will fall in love with right away.
