Activities For Hug Dogs

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Introduction

The Hug is a hybrid dog breed resulting from a cross between a Pug and a Siberian Husky. The combination of a small dog and a large dog makes for a medium-sized dog just right for hugging! Physically, the dogs resemble Pugs more than Huskies. They tend to have the small, chubby Pug body with a smushed face and Husky coloring. The big, pointy ears make for a silly addition to the Hug’s small body.

Huskies are known as one of the most active breeds and Pugs are known as one of the laziest. So, what do you get when you cross the two? A moderate level of energy that requires medium activity. Despite the higher energy level in Hugs compared to purebred Pugs, you should stick to activities that are suited to the Hug’s smaller body.

Bring You the Newspaper

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Free
Normal
5 min
Items needed
Doggy Door
Newspaper
Treats
Activity description

If you still get the daily paper delivered to your doorstep, train your Hug how to fetch the paper and bring it back to you!  Dogs love having jobs, even a small job like this. They also love treats, which you will be readily handing out during the training phase. If you don't get the newspaper, you can train your dog to help you carry in the mail (provided they are safely away from any traffic!).

The Pug part of a Hug breed enjoys staying close to home, and this is an activity where neither of you have to go very far.

Step
1
Install doggie door
You’ll need to install a doggie door to your front door if you want your pup to fetch the paper for you on command. Before you purchase the doggie door, make sure to take measurements to see if Fido can fit through the door with ease. Some dogs are afraid of doggie doors, so have treats on hand to encourage your pup. Don’t worry about your dog escaping through the door when you’re not home or burglars getting in -- most doors come with a lock or panel that can be used to cover the door when not in use.
Step
2
Teach your dog to fetch the paper
Dogs love to fetch various items for their owner, not just their own toys. Hugs are an intelligent breed that can quickly learn to fetch some items by name. Dogs are also sticklers for routines. After a few successful paper runs, your dog should come to expect to fetch the paper as a daily activity.
Step
3
Teach "drop it" command
Teaching your dog to bring you the paper is worthless if you don’t also teach them how to give you the paper. This is easily accomplished by teaching your dog the “drop it" or “leave it” command. This command is a good one to teach your dog anyway, in case they get something in their mouth that could harm them. Without the command to drop the item, you’ll be stuffing your hand into your dog’s mouth as they clamp their teeth down on whatever prize they’ve found. (As they say, there's nothing faster than a dog who has heard "What's in your mouth?" from their owner!)
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Short Walk

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Any Day
Free
Easy
20 min
Items needed
Harness
Leash
Water
Activity description

Given that Hug dogs aren’t a super active breed, a short walk around your neighborhood should be enough exercise for your pup. Both Pugs and Huskies are prone to heatstroke, so in the summer, it’s best to walk them in the mornings and evenings, when it's cooler. Bring a water bottle and collapsible bowl with you if it's hot out.

Hugs walk better on harnesses than collars. Of course, Hug dogs generally have smaller bodies than Huskies. Their shorter legs mean they can’t be walked as long as a purebred Husky could be. You want to tire your dog out, not injure them. If your pup gets overheated, take them home immediately.

Step
1
Buy a fitted harness
Because of their pudgy bodies, Hugs are better suited for harnesses than collars. However, many people don’t purchase the correct harness size for their dog. A harness too tight can be uncomfortable for Fido and one too large risks escape. After you’ve purchased the correct harness, be sure to put it on your pup properly. Some people put them on upside down, which doesn’t do your dog much good.
Step
2
Plot a walk route
You might not want to set off on your walk without setting a specific route -- either by time limit or distance limit. That will help you know how far your pup can walk with ease. When you’re walking your Hug, be sure to keep an eye on them for signs of overexertion. Take breaks when necessary, even if you don't feel tired.
Step
3
Hydrate your pup
Bring a water bottle on warm days to keep you and your pal hydrated. If you don’t want to drink out of the same bottle as your pup, buy a collapsible water dish that will easily fit in your pocket. Or even better -- put a backpack on your pup and let them carry their own bowl. Dogs love to be given tasks. Though, if it’s a really hot day, you might not want to add on to Fido’s weight with a backpack.
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Tug-of-War

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Any Day
Cheap
Normal
30 min
Items needed
Rope or Old Towel
Wide space
Treats
Activity description

Or should that be Hug-of-War?

Tug-of-War is a great activity for Hugs because it satisfies that Husky predatory part of the Hug while not being too much for the Pug part. Dogs love tug-of-war, and they really get into it when their humans make growling noises at them.

This activity can be enjoyed out in your yard or in your living room. Rope toys can be purchased for cheap at any pet store. If you don’t have a rope toy, an old towel can be used in a pinch. Your pup will likely play tug-of-war with any item you choose.

Step
1
Purchase a durable rope
Go to your local pet store -- maybe even take Fido to choose one -- to purchase a rope toy for the game. It should be made from durable material that can withstand your pup’s strength. It’s a good idea to buy a rope that is somewhat long to lessen the chance of Fido accidentally nipping your hands.
Step
2
Teach the "drop it" command
Tug-of-War (and fetch) are two great examples of when the “drop it" command will be useful for your dog to know. If your dog is being a little too aggressive while playing, you can use the command to take a short break from the game. Don’t be a poor sport and use the command to make your dog lose the game. It’s fine to let your pup win sometimes!
Step
3
Give treats
Giving your dog treats is a good way to positively reward them for good behavior. In a game of Tug, that good behavior could be anything from giving you the rope on command to not biting your hands. Pugs are known for being prone to obesity, so only give the treats in moderation or use healthy treats like diced carrots.
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More Fun Ideas...

Dog Park

It is important to socialize your pup, particularly a dog that is half Husky. Huskies are very friendly and they love meeting new people and dogs. Neither Pugs or Huskies are overly aggressive breeds, so your Hug should get along great with other dogs. Use your best judgment on whether your pup should go in the small dog or large dog area.

Fetch

Nothing beats a good old game of fetch as an activity to exercise your dog.  Most dogs love fetch, so your Hug should enjoy it, too. All you’ll need is a ball and a yard. Some dogs can be reluctant to give the ball back, so it’s good for your dog to know the “drop it” command.

Conclusion

Pugs may be one of the laziest dogs, but when crossed with a high-energy breed such as a Husky, their energy level is sure to go up a notch. However, Hug dogs have the physical characteristics of a Pug, especially the shorter legs.  For that reason, they can’t do as strenuous activities as Huskies can.

Tug-of-War, fetching the paper or a brisk walk are more than enough to provide your pup with the daily exercise they need. Be mindful of your dog being prone to heat exhaustion and only walk when the temperature is cooler. If your pup shows overly aggressive behavior during tug-of-war or any games, stop the game immediately and take a break.