10-20 lbs
10-14"
Unknown
The Pugalier is a cross between a Pug and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. A Pugalier is typically small (between 10 and 20 pounds) and can look much like a Pug or much like the Cavalier, while others may inherit traits from both parent breeds. The idea in creating the breed was to retain the charm of the Pug while minimizing the breathing problems of the breed by creating a nose that is slightly longer. While each dog will be different, it has been found that Pugalier will be very friendly and affectionate and will make a great family pet, while not requiring a large amount of exercise. The Pugalier will fit in with any household composition and will do fine living in an apartment or house with a fenced-in yard.
The Pugalier is a relatively new hybrid, though the two breeds that make the hybrid have long histories. The Pug was first noted in China at the time of the Han dynasty, where they were owned by Emperors and treated as members of the royal family. Dutch traders brought the breed to Europe during the 1500’s and 1600’s and the Pug soon became popular among European royalty, often given a different name in each country. The Pug was not seen in the United States until after the Civil War; in 1885 the breed earned recognition by the American Kennel Club. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is thought to have descended from the Toy Spaniel. While the breed has roots in the United Kingdom, it is thought to have originated in the Far East, Malta and Italy. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was a favorite of kings Charles I and Charles II which resulted in his name; the current version of the breed stems from its time as a companion to royalty. King Charles II was so taken with the breed that he ordered that the dogs be allowed in all public places, even parliament. In the 1920’s the breed standard was developed. The first Cavalier King Charles Spaniel arrived in the United States in 1952 and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995.
The Pugalier will
inherit traits from both of his parent breeds; as with all mixed breeds, you
can anticipate that he may inherit more physical characteristic from the Pug or
from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or be a pretty even mix of the two.
Typically, a Pugalier will have a round skull like that of the Cavalier King
Charles Spaniel while having the short muzzle of the Pug; however, breeders will
usually try to develop a longer muzzle than that of the Pug to avoid breathing
issues. A Cavalier may inherit the protruding eyes frequently seen in Pugs,
however this is a trait that breeders are trying to breed out as it can lead to
issues in the dog’s eyes. The ears of the breed are soft and floppy and dogs of
the hybrid typically have a short coat.
The Pugalier does not require a lot of maintenance. The breed will typically require a minimal amount of grooming, though should your dog inherit the coat of his Cavalier parent, more may be required. For those that inherit the short coat of the Pug, brushing should take place once a week; two to three times per week is best for those who inherit the coat of the Cavalier. Those dogs that have numerous wrinkles should be wiped with a damp clean cloth on occasion in order to avoid developing a skin infection. Dogs of the hybrid will shed year round requiring some maintenance of your furniture, carpet and clothes. As with all dogs, the you will want to brush the teeth of your Pugalier several times per week to ensure his long-term dental health.
The Pugalier will inherit his behavioral traits from his parent breeds, the Pug and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Inherited traits will be different for each offspring; some will inherit all of their behavioral traits from one parent while others will inherit traits from both parents. Most dogs of the hybrid will be friendly and will get along well with children and other pets. You can expect that your Pugalier will be personable and a lot of fun to be around. The hybrid can be stubborn on occasion, although he will usually be bright and inquisitive. Often the Pugalier is easy to train; however, consistent reinforcement will be key, particularly those that are more stubborn.
While both parent breeds of this hybrid enjoy lounging around and cuddling with their humans, they also require some degree of physical activity. The Pugalier will benefit from daily exercise, which can include a walk, indoor and outdoor play, and trips to the dog park. It is important that your dog not be engaged in exercise that is too strenuous like a long run or hike. As the hybrid does not require a large amount of physical activity, he will do fine living in an apartment and will not require a yard. Since the Pugalier does well with light activity, he makes an excellent pet for those who are not very active.
Written by a Australian Shepherd lover Ilyssa Bozza
Published: 11/19/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
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