Facts & Origin
French Bulldog and Pug in one
The Frenchie Pug - also known as the Frug - is a so-called designer hybrid breed that is the result of a deliberate cross between a Pug and a French Bull dog. Both parents are small, compact companion dogs with a friendly and people-oriented nature.
The aim of this mix was to preserve the playful, affectionate nature of both breeds and possibly minimize health problems such as severe breathing difficulties or skin fold problems - by combining the genes of two brachycephalic breeds with similar stature.
Breeding of the Frenchie Pug probably began in the last two decades, especially in North America, where the trend towards small, cute-looking family dogs with a charming character is particularly strong.
Criticism of the Frenchie Pug
Despite its popularity as a family and apartment dog, the Frenchie Pug has been criticized, especially from an animal welfare and health perspective. Both parent breeds - the Pug and the French Bulldog - are so-called brachycephalic breeds, i.e. short-snouted dogs that often suffer from breathing problems, heat intolerance, eye diseases and spinal problems.
Critics complain that the mating of two short-nosed breeds does not reduce the risk of serious health problems , but can potentially increase it - especially if breeding is carried out without regard to breeding standards and health examinations.
Another point of criticism is the marketing of the Frenchie Pug as easy to care for and robust, which often does not correspond to reality. Many owners underestimate the husbandry requirements, veterinary care and care needs of this hybrid breed - especially if they are bought for their looks without considering the breed's typical characteristics.
Suitability of the Frenchie Pug
Despite health risks, the Frenchie Pug is a friendly, funny and charming companion dog- if bred seriously and with appropriate care. It is particularly suitable for people who spend a lot of time with their dog, enjoy being at home and want an affectionate, playful little dog by their side.
Frenchie Pugs are generally people-oriented, cuddly and friendly, both towards family members and strangers. They usually get on well with children and - with early socialization - can also get on well with other pets. Due to their character, they are well suited as apartment dogs, but still need regular exercise, mental activity and structure.
For older people, singles or families with a quiet lifestyle, the Frenchie Pug can be an ideal dog - as long as you are aware that this breed may require a lot of veterinary care and cannot tolerate extreme heat or constant exercise.
| Alternate Name | Frug, Frenchie Pug |
| Origin | France - China |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 15 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | average - low |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of the Frenchie Pug
The Frenchie Pug is generally a loving, people-oriented and playful companion dog that would love to follow its human wherever they go. Due to the combination of Pug and French Bulldog, it often has a balanced character - friendly, charming and with a certain sense of humor.
Many Frenchie Pugs are very affectionate, need a lot of closeness and attention and feel most comfortable in company. They are open-minded, love children and usually get on well with other dogs. Their playful nature makes them pleasant family dogs, but they can also be stubborn or willful - which requires loving but consistent training.
Their adaptability is also typical: the Frenchie Pug does not need extreme exercise, but likes to be active - at a moderate pace. He loves walks, short play sessions and cuddles together. Its even temperament makes it an ideal apartment dog, but it should not be left alone for too long.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Possible diseases of the Frenchie Pug
As both parents belong to the brachycephalic breeds, the Frenchie Pug is also susceptible to various health problems. Serious breeding with a focus on longer muzzles, clearer airways and healthy body proportions is crucial for a long, symptom-free dog life.
Possible diseases in the Frenchie Pug:
Brachycephalic respiratory syndrome: difficulty breathing, especially in heat or exertion
Eye problems: inflammation, corneal injuries, prolapse of the nictitating gland
Skin fold inflammation, especially on the face
Spinal and joint problems: e.g. intervertebral disc problems or hip dysplasia
Allergies and sensitive skin, e.g. due to food or environmental stimuli
Overweight, favored by low activity and great joy of feeding
Regular veterinary checks, moderate exercise, controlled feeding and targeted care (especially of the skin folds) are important to prevent or detect health problems at an early stage.
This is what a Frenchie Pug can look like
The Frenchie Pug is a compact, strong small dog with a lot of charisma. Its shoulder height is usually between 25 and 33 cm, the weight between 7 and 12 kg, depending on which parent type comes through more strongly.
Its round head is typical, often with a slightly shortened muzzle (sometimes more, sometimes less), large saucer eyes and expressive facial expressions. The ears are often upright (as in the Frenchie) or slightly bent (as in the Pug).
The coat is short, smooth and easy to care for. It can be unicolored or multicolored - typical colors are beige, black, white, gray, brindle or with a mask. The build is usually broad, muscular and deep-set, with a strong chest and round back.
Overall, the Frenchie Pug looks like a small, stable mix with charm, character and a playful look that immediately arouses sympathy.
Known Diseases
Allergies
Can occur in a number of breeds, regardless of genetic makeup.
Breathing problems
Dogs with shortened muzzles can often experience respiratory problems.
Disc problems
Herniated disc in dogs (discopathy). Herniated discs or dachshund paralysis cause dogs severe pain.
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
Denture malocclusions
Malocclusions of the dentition often occur in dogs with short muzzles.
Shortness of breath
Difficult breathing can be recognized by the dog's rattling and sometimes accelerated breathing rate.
Overweight
Often, unfortunately, the dogs very much under excess weight. But the dogs themselves are never to blame!
Heart disease
Can occur frequently in dogs and can sometimes be treated with medication.
FAQ
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Frugs typically have the appearance of a smaller Frenchie, with a wrinkled forehead, short muzzle and large, round eyes. The coat can be either short or long and either brindle or fawn.
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A French Bulldog and Pug mix usually inherits the best traits of both breeds, resulting in a dog that is friendly, intelligent and affectionate. However, they can also inherit some of the less desirable traits of both breeds, such as stubbornness and snoring.
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A French Bulldog/Pug mix needs the same basic care as any other dog, including regular vaccinations, routine grooming and plenty of exercise. Due to their short muzzle, they are also more prone to breathing problems and need to be closely monitored for signs of respiratory distress.
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French Bulldog and Pug mixes are prone to some of the same health problems as their purebred parents, such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and breathing problems. They are also more prone to obesity, so it is important to monitor their weight and feed them a healthy diet.
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Frugs make excellent family pets and are usually good with children. They can be too energetic for very young children, but they will do well in homes with older children who can keep up with their activity level.
