Schnug

15-22 lbs
10-12"
United States
Miniature Schnauzer
Pug
Born as a result from crossing a Miniature Schnauzer with a Pug dog, the Schnug is a new hybrid dog that is winning peoples hearts. Small and full of life, this happy dog loves his people and really loves to please. They do have a streak of stubbornness that comes from the Miniature Schnauzer, but with patience and praise this can be overcome. The Schnug has a moderately high hunting instinct and it is wise to watch this feisty little dog around small mammals. Lively, smart, happy and sometimes vocal, they make a fine addition to the family. Animated and peppy, affectionate with family members, this dog will worm his way into your heart at the speed of light. They adore attention, and really like to be with you at all times. These little pooches will follow you around, sit in your lap at the drop of a hat, and will usually obey your commands. The Schnug will respond well to training, as long as it is fun. Keep the first few sessions short to allow them to get used to it, but always vary the routine for the best results. They respond best to praise, kind words and small treats. But don't allow them to become the boss, keep them in their place in a kind but firm manner and you will have a well rounded dog that is a pleasure to live with.
purpose Purpose
Companion, Agility, Watchdog.
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Miniature Schnauzer, Pug

Schnug Health

Average Size
Male Schnug size stats
Height: 12-14 inches Weight: 17-24 lbs
Female Schnug size stats
Height: 10-12 inches Weight: 15-22 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Epilepsy
  • Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
  • Diabetes
  • Von Willebrand's Disease
  • Kidney Stones
Minor Concerns
  • Small Incidence Of Hereditary Eye Diseases Such As Collie Eye Anomaly And Primary Lens Luxation
  • Weight Gain
  • Dry Eye
Occasional Diagnoses
  • PDE (Pug Dog Encephalitis)
  • May be sensitive to certain drugs
Occasional Tests
  • Urinalysis
  • Buccal Mucosal Screening
  • Blood Chemistry
  • Blood Glucose Tests
  • Physical and Neurologic Examination
  • Complete Ophthalmologic Examination
  • Blood Tests and Blood Count
  • X-rays or other radiographic imaging

Schnug Breed History

The Schnug is a new hybrid dog that is the result from cross breeding a Pug with a Miniature Schnauzer. As there is no data to document the development of the Schnug, we have to examine the parent breed history where we can gain an understanding of where these dogs have come from. The Pug originated from China about a thousand years ago and was brought by the Dutch East India Company to Europe. Popular amongst nobles, it became the official dog of the House of Orange in 1572  after saving the life of William, Prince of Orange. Legend has it that the Pug gave a timely warning  of the invading Spanish. The Pug was also a favorite in France during Napolenic times. Josephine, the wife of Napoleon, loved the Pug who allegedly was brave enough to bite Napoleon as he climbed into bed on the couple's wedding night! Josephine also used her Pug, named Fortune, to carry secret messages to her husband while she was imprisoned at Les Carmes. She would hide the notes under the collar of the cute and harmless looking pooch. The Pug dog's history is a long one although not always well documented, but we know it was a treasured pet of the Buddhist Monasteries in Tibet, and has flourished since before 400 BC. The Pug was officially recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1885. The Pug has retained its popular status as a companion and family friend and is known as a curious, devoted, loving dog with a sweet disposition. The Miniature Schnauzer has its roots in Germany where it was developed as a need for a fast small dog to control the rats in homes and stables. But it quickly became popular as a companion dog and gained a firm following of devoted owners. The miniature Schnauzer was developed by crossing small Standard Schnauzers with the Affenpinscher and possibly the Miniature Poodle. The World Wars l & ll were tough on all dogs including the Miniature Schnauzer, but after the war, dog fanciers took it upon themselves to revive the breed and the dog's popularity boomed ever since then. These hard working dogs were excellent guard dogs on the farm and also kept the vermin down. The records of their history is scant, but it is known that a black female Miniature Schnauzer was born in October 1888 and she was named Findel. In 1895 the first breed club was formed in Cologne, Germany although it also accepted other types of dogs. The Miniature Schnauzer then spread around the globe, popular for its beard and bushy eyebrows, and his big heart. He just loves people, and they love him back. This dog is not a shrinking violet, they are small but a total extrovert, and they just love life. Little has changed about the dog today except its color. Now, black and silver are the popular colors that have replaced the red, black and tan, and yellow shades of days gone by. The Miniature Schnauzer is considered a Terrier by the American Kennel Club. And like any Terrier, they have distinct personalities and can be a barrel of laughs - as long as you are the boss, not them.

Schnug Breed Appearance

The Schnug is an attractive small dog that has a longer body than it is tall. Often they can look quite boxy in shape. Their legs are often short, slender and strong, ending in small well padded paws. They have a narrow chest, and their head seams large in proportion to their body. They can have a short pointed muzzle or the pushed in nose of the Pug, with a shiny black nose. If they do have this shape, they may not be good for high temperature climates and will require a cool place to escape the heat and allow easier breathing. Round large eyes, sometimes quite prominent, glisten with eagerness to please, desire to play, and hint at the mischief contained in this somewhat innocent looking dog. Their head is rounded in shape, and they have triangular shaped ears that fold over and hang beside their head. The curly tail of the pug dog is often present, curling up over the back. The Schnug comes in a range of shades from fawn to brown and with black markings especially on the face. These lively dogs make ideal companions and are good at warning when strangers are around.
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Schnug eyes
Brown
amber Schnug eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black Schnug nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
black Schnug coat
Black
brown Schnug coat
Brown
red Schnug coat
Red
cream Schnug coat
Cream
fawn Schnug coat
Fawn
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Schnug straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Schnug Breed Maintenance

The Schnug is relatively easy to maintain, they just require brushing every second or third day to keep their coats healthy and free from matting. A firm bristle brush or a comb will even out the coat and remove any shed hair. When bathing your dog, make sure you use a special dog shampoo which is kinder on their skin and retains the natural oils and weather resistance of the coat. Training young puppies to accept having their teeth brushed will save problems later on, just start with small sessions to get them used this new procedure. Another area to check is the ears, where the dirt and wax can build up and become infected leading to all sorts of health problems. Gently clean inside the ear with a soft damp cloth and dry the area afterwards to maintain good health. Your Schnug's nails may need clipping if they are too long although  a slight trim once a month should be enough to keep them at the right length. Most dogs enjoy the grooming process, and it is a great time to check your dog for any sores, or infections as dogs never complain when they are in pain, they just keep it to themselves. Taking the time to care for your companion dog will be appreciated by them and they will lap up all the attention!
Brushes for Schnug
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Dematter
Dematter
Comb
Comb
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Schnug requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Schnug Temperament

The Schnug sounds like a story book dog, and in some ways they are. They are funny, cute, and full of mischief which would make great reading if the stories about them were ever published. Curious, happy go lucky, and bold, they make entertaining companions and family members. The Schnug gets on well with children and adapts well to other pets. They are an intelligent dog who responds well to training, but keep it fun and short in duration if you see their eyes start to glaze over as they lose their focus. Like most dogs they respond well to praise and a lot of attention, not to mention the odd treat or two. They have a lot of energy but are not hyperactive. Games with the family will be welcomed, but they are easily contented with just curling up on your lap while you do your book work or watch television. Although small they are very alert, and will bark loudly if strangers are on the property. At first they can be reserved when meeting new people, but once they get to know them it will be another lap to claim as theirs. With their short hair and straight coat they need minimal grooming to keep them looking smart. Grooming sessions will be great bonding time where they will enjoy being pampered and given your full attention. Genial in nature, and willing to please, they may seem the perfect little dog, but they can have a stubborn streak hidden deep inside. When it surfaces, it is best to move onto something else and then come back to it in a completely different way. Loading demands with lots of praise for achievement will certainly help to get your Schnug wanting to please you. These dogs need someone who is around home most of the time, as they really love company. A house with a small yard to explore or an apartment will be fine for them, as long as you are nearby and they can get a daily walk, the Schnug will be content.

Schnug Activity Requirements

The Schnug is a small dog who has a lot of energy but its not excessive. They will require a daily walk to keep them fit and also to allow socialisation with other dogs and people - an important part of their development. They are best kept on a leash as they do have a fairly high hunting instinct, and can take off after small animals regardless of your repeated calls to stop. These social fun loving dogs will also enjoy time to run free with the other dogs in the secure dog parks. They will love a selection of toys to play with, and love family games or a set task that will challenge their curious nature. But while activity is good for them, they also crave time with you one on one. That means your lap will be considered theirs, and they will snuggle up to you at every given opportunity. The Schnug is a dog that will be equally at home in an apartment or a house with a small yard. They are inside dogs - they will be shocked should you suggest they sleep outside in a kennel and will protest loudly if you try to make them. If you don't want a house dog then this is not the dog for you. They want to be glued to your side and part of your life and will entertain the family with their friendly nature.
Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
8 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
45 minutes
activity minutes

Schnug Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
1 cups
cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.00 - $2.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$26.00 - $35.00
food bag monthly cost

Schnug Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Schnug size stats at six months
Height: 6.5 inches Weight: 10.0 lbs
Female Schnug size stats at six months
Height: 5.5 inches Weight: 8.0 lbs
12 Months
Male Schnug size stats at 12 months
Height: 14.5 inches Weight: 14.5 lbs
Female Schnug size stats at 12 months
Height: 11.0 inches Weight: 12.5 lbs
18 Months
Male Schnug size stats at 18 months
Height: 20.5 inches Weight: 20.5 lbs
Female Schnug size stats at 18 months
Height: 18.5 inches Weight: 18.5 lbs

Schnug Owner Experiences

Toby
13 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Toby is a loyal and devoted rescue dog. He follows me everywhere and has an intense, enthusiastic, and sweet disposition. Our whole family adores him. 💙
2 months, 1 week ago
Pugsley
4 Months
8 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He's so adorable loves to snuggle interacts with all family members loves rides in the car He's my side kick 😍
3 months, 2 weeks ago
Rocky
13 Years
6 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
sleep
Best friend; for life.
3 years, 1 month ago
Buddy
1 Year
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running
He is such an amazing dog
6 years, 8 months ago
Eddie
6 Years
1 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
changed my life, I love him so much, he is the best little fella
6 years, 6 months ago
Sherlock
6 Months
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Play in the dog park
It's my first dog, but it has been such an experience. He's grown fast and he has been a curious and playful dog. He can be mischevious at times, but we all enjoy playing with him!
5 years, 11 months ago
Rosie
3 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walks, dog park, fetch
Rosie is the most well suited dog to a young family, she loves people, and when out and about she loves other dogs. She loves company and wants to be by our side at all times possible. I work from home, meaning that she has company most of the time, this is not a breed to leave lonely regularly. She has a vocabulary of words that she understands and responds to of approximately 40 words, and loves being spoken to and included in family conversation. These dogs are not easy to find, but are well worth the wait for when you do.
5 years, 4 months ago
Csusza
7 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
kanooing
walking in nature
She doesn’t play with all dogs but has some loves. Doesn’t like eating but all the time ready to play. sleeps with us and she is like a shadow of me. I love her more than anyone. The best dog ever.
4 years, 4 months ago
Karlee
4 Months
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very energetic. Very intelligent. Overly excited when meeting other dogs, other dogs easily frustrated with her.
4 years, 4 months ago
Lola
6 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking, playing tug and catch
Lola loves to meet everyone. She is really friendly with other dogs. She loves being with me and greets me with lots of love when I return home. Lola is good off the lead and in the car. She loves being by my side and follows me everywhere. She is best friends with our cat.
4 years, 2 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd