As a cross between Chihuahuas and Pugs, Chugs are a mixed breed with unpredictable personalities. Some are silly and playful, while others are relaxed and independent. One thing is for sure, though: these dogs don’t think they’re small and won’t hesitate to show you what they’re made of.
The Chug’s personality will vary depending on their genes, socialization, and owners. If their Pug side is stronger, they’re likely to be silly pups, while if the Chihuahua side is stronger, they will probably be more independent. Both sides of the Chug’s gene pool are bullheaded with training, so you’ll need patience and lots of treats to teach them the rules of the road.
Chugs can have short, smooth fur or longer coats if one of their ancestors is a long-haired Chihuahua. Most Chugs shed quite a bit, so keep a brush handy to groom them every few days. If your pup has facial wrinkles, make sure to keep them clean and dry to prevent infection.
Most Chugs are kind and affectionate, making them great family playmates. However, because of their size, they get along best with older children who know how to handle them gently. Chugs enjoy spending time with cats, but they are not as fond of dogs. In fact, they’re known to be aggressive toward bigger dogs even though they’re a fraction of their size. Chugs love people, though, and should be primarily kept as indoor dogs. They can live in just about any setting, but their barking may not be a good fit for apartment life or close quarters.
The Chug has low to medium energy and will adapt to their family’s lifestyle. They like to walk or play every day, but they’re perfectly content lying on the couch with you afterward. If your Chug has strong Pug genes, it’s more likely to gain weight, so spend a little extra time on exercise to keep it fit.