Sometimes the best things in life are unexpected. And few things are more unexpected than a pug husky mix! However, these adorable, intelligent, loyal dogs make great companions. What’s more, this mix is commonly referred to not only as a pug and husky mix but also as a Hug dog. And we can’t think of many things that are better than that.
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Appearance
As with many crossbreeds, husky pug mix dogs have a 50/50 chance of taking after either parent when it comes to many aspects of their appearance. However, some of the most notable traits from either parent are usually preserved in these adorable dogs.
Because huskies can be large dogs, while pugs are relatively small, the possible size range for Hug dogs is rather large. All in all, a full-grown husky mixed with pug is likely to get anywhere from 10 to 23 inches tall and weigh from 15 up to 60 pounds!
Both parent breeds have double coats, but the texture and appearance are different in each. So when it comes to the offspring, the results can be a bit of a mixed bag. A Hug dog can have a finer, shorter coat like its pug parent or a longer, thicker coat like its husky parent.
When it comes to markings, you’ll generally see Hug dogs with either the characteristic pug facial markings or those of the husky, and the same goes with color. Very rarely will a pug husky mix have color and marking mix between parents.
We know what you’re thinking. What about that adorable pug nose and the curled husky tail? These lovable traits often do show up in Hug dogs, but you can never be sure. Some will have a characteristically stocky, pug-like body and a long husky snout, while some will have that smooshed-in face, a husky tail, and husky-like ears.
Temperament
Both parents of this crossbreed were bred to be loyal and to have guard-like jobs. Likewise, both the pug and the husky are friendly, playful, and good companions. The resulting Hug dog carries on all these characteristics.
These dogs are often friendly and great with children, making them wonderful family dogs. Also, Hug dogs are often affectionate cuddlers who bond deeply with their humans. Although they can be energetic and intelligent, they can also be calm couch potatoes.
Don’t let this fool you, though. Hug dogs will likely need a large space to live in, so apartment living will probably not suit them. This breed does need to get regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Huskies are working breeds, and they pass this need for exercise along to this crossbreed. While the pug’s easygoing nature may balance out some of the husky hyperness, the Hug dog will need plenty of time to walk, play, and explore daily to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Pug husky mixes can inherit some stubbornness from their pug side, so making sure they get plenty of exercise can help prevent acting out in boredom and can make these dogs a bit easier to train.
Care
While a Hug dog is generally easygoing and a great family dog, they are not entirely low maintenance. They require special care in some ways to make sure they stay happy and healthy.
Grooming
Depending on which parent’s coat was inherited, Hug dogs can often shed a great deal and require regular brushing and grooming to keep their coats healthy. A thicker coat may need to be brushed at home up to four times a week to prevent tangles and dry skin.
A pug husky mix who inherits more pug traits will need some special grooming care to make sure the creases on its face stay clean and don’t become irritated. Ear drops and careful cleaning of the ears are also a good idea to prevent illnesses.
Nail trimming, as with any breed, is key for helping prevent joint issues down the road. Trimming a pug husky mix’s nails at least once a month will keep them moving comfortably.
Feeding
Because this breed can swing between high activity and low activity, it’s important to keep an eye on their daily food intake. Hug dogs can easily become obese, which can adversely affect their health in many ways, so feed no more than 2.5 cups of food per day and keep an eye on treat intake.
If a Hug dog takes after its pug parent, it may not be able to tolerate as much exercise as another pug husky mix, and in this case, it’s even more important to monitor the dog’s intake and make sure that it’s eating a balanced diet to prevent obesity.
Training
Pug husky mixes will benefit greatly from obedience training. These dogs inherit some willfulness from both sides of the family tree, so making sure they are both socialized and trained at a young age will help them understand what’s expected of them and fit into the family well.
Positive reinforcement is a great way to both train a young Hug dog and support a professional training class. Treats, playing, toys, and different rewards will help keep him or her motivated and engaged and prevent couch potato behavior.
Health
Unfortunately, this crossbreed can suffer from several kinds of health issues.
While huskies are generally healthy, pugs can suffer from a range of issues, including serious respiratory diseases, an inflammatory central nervous system disease called Pug Dog Encephalitis, dysplasia, retinopathy, skin issues, and hypothyroidism.
These dogs do tend to have a long lifespan, often living up to 15 years. So being aware of the possible illnesses and staying up to date with vet visits and checkups can help mitigate this.
Making sure to source a Hug pup from a reputable breeder who screens for health issues can also help prevent some of these problems. It’s also thought that first-generation crossbreeds can have more health issues than later generations, so seeking a second- or third-generation pug and husky mix might be another good option.
Conclusion – The Pug Husky Mix
If you’re looking for a loyal, affectionate family dog who can keep up with your active lifestyle, and you’re willing to put in the time and effort to train them well and keep them healthy, then a Hug dog might be the perfect choice for you!
About the author
Rachael is the co-founder and editor at Pug Facts. Owner of one elderly Pug, she’s dedicated to helping other Pug owners create healthy, happy, lives with their furry best friends.
