Puggle’s Lifespan

Crossbred dogs often turn out to make interesting and lovable pets. In many cases, hybrid canines inherhit the best traits of their parent breeds. One such dog is the puggle. Learn about the puggle, the puggle’s lifespan, common health issues impacting this dog, and steps pet parents can take to keep their furry friends healthy and happy for as long as possible.

Puggle Overview

The puggle’s parent breeds are the pug and the beagle. Dog breeding experts maintain that this cross first gained recognition during the 1980s in the United States. Generally speaking, breeders consider puggles as friendly dogs capable of making great family pets.

Appearance

Since puggles fit the hybrid criteria, offering specific physical descriptions proves difficult. Each puggle displays varying traits inherited from its parent breeds.

That said, these dogs exhibit certain generalities. For example, usually, their coats contain a mixture of colors such as yellow, white, red, black, and brown. Neither the pug nor the beagle are large dogs. Therefore, on average, puggles stand slightly over one foot tall and typically weigh 30 pounds or less.

Temperament

In most cases, puggles are friendly, happy, free-spirited, loyal, and intelligent dogs. Breeders consider them good companion dogs needing the love and attention of a good family.

What is the Puggle’s Lifespan?

Veterinary professionals maintain that with proper nutrition and care, the puggle’s lifespan typically ranges between 12 and 15 years. Moreover, this breed usually enjoys good health until older age sets in.

Health Issues Impacting Puggles

Unfortunately, certain health concerns impact puggles. These problems also usually impact their parent breeds. Specific issues include:

Hip Dysplasia

This condition most often results from genetic flaws. The hip sockets of impacted dogs fail to develop properly causing the key joint to loosen. Over time, the stricken animal’s risk of joint diseases like osteoarthritis increases. Mild to moderate cases often respond favorably to physical therapy or the administration of inflammation-reducing medications. That said, serious presentations might require surgery.

Pug Dog Encephalitis

This illness, which veterinarians officially label necrotizing meningoencephalitis, strikes a dog’s nervous system. Unfortunately, this ailment characterized by seizures is progressive and almost always fatal. However, the problem tends to impact female puggles more than males.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the puggle’s kneecap, which is known as the patella in medical terms, shifts beyond its normal limits. The physical problem often results in limping. Moreover, an impacted dog may experience crackling or popping sounds while walking. In significant cases, corrective surgery might be required.

Thyroid Disease

Puggles carry a higher risk of contracting thyroiditis, an inflammation of the thyroid gland. As the problem worsens, a stricken dog’s thyroid produces a reduced amount of thyroid hormone leading to symptoms such as:

• Weight gain
• Darkening of the skin
• A dry, itchy, and flaky coat
• Hair loss
• Tiredness

The problem often improves with the administration of thyroid hormone. However, the dog must remain on such treatment for the remainder of its life.

Eye Issues

Both pugs and beagles are prone to eye ailments. One such issue is a condition called proptosis, which happens when the eye protrudes through its socket either partially or entirely. Another eye illness puggle owners should be concerned about is known as cherry eye. This condition is characterized by inflamed tear ducts resulting in frequent infections requiring treatment with antibiotics.

Obesity

As relatively small dogs, puggles often grow obese if overindulgent pet parents feed them excessive amounts of food or treats over time. Obesity increases the dog’s chances of developing serious physical problems like spinal cord injuries. Therefore, owners should use their discretion and feed their fur babies in moderation.

Important Considerations

Many of the conditions previously discussed cost thousands to treat. Furthermore, some are chronic meaning they linger on for extended periods. Ergo, veterinary professionals urge puggle owners to get their dogs tested for these conditions as early and often as possible. Additionally, honorable breeders should provide documentation demonstrating puggle puppies are free of genetic disorders or be forthright about problems that might have existed in any of the dog’s ancestors.

Tips for Keeping a Puggle Healthy

Proud puggle parents may increase the health and longevity of their four-legged friends by following tips including:

Vaccination

Vets recommend that puggles, like all other dog breeds, receive regular vaccinations. These safeguards protect canines from serious and potentially fatal illnesses.

Exercise

Regular physical activity helps puggles maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, exercise strengthens physical components like muscles, bones, and soft tissues decreasing their risk of injury and illness.

Diet

A puggle’s diet should consist of food and treats containing large amounts of important nutrients. Above all, moderate portions must be given. Furthermore, hydration is a significant component of diet. Puggle parents must make sure that their furry buddies always have a plentiful supply of fresh water. The natural resource proves critical to digestion and many other crucial bodily functions.

Grooming

Fur babies must receive consistent and proper grooming. These cleanings should include regular baths and brushing. Unclean dogs stand at a greater risk of attracting parasites and other bothersome and potentially serious illnesses.

Dental Care

Though sometimes overlooked, dental care plays a crucial role in a puggle’s general health. First, healthy teeth and gums are needed to properly break down and digest nutrient-rich food. Moreover, gum disease increases a dog’s risk of numerous other potentially life-threatening problems such as heart disease, diabetes, infections, and cancer.