Pug and Cocker Spaniel Mix

Pug and Cocker Spaniel Mix, sounds like a strange combination, isn’t it? Nevertheless, it does exist and is considered a designer dog breed. As the name suggests, it is a combo of two pure breeds: a Cocker Spaniel and a Pug. The reason for this strange at-first-sight breeding was that Pugs are considered brachycephalic (flat-faced). Therefore it constantly experiences problems with breathing. Especially on scorching hot days. 

pug and cocker spaniel mix
Pug and Cocker Spaniel Mix

Hence, it tends to develop various lung as well as heart complications because of the pancake-faced appearance. Something needed to be done to help the wrinkly pal to breathe normally. It had to have airways that were wide enough for a sufficient amount of oxygen to penetrate the Pug’s system for proper body functioning. 

When a Pug and Cocker Spaniel breed first appeared, it was clear that the crossbreeding was actually very beneficial. It gave a Pug hound a much longer muzzle and created wider airways, so a flat-faced fella can inhale and exhale without hindrance.

Pug and Cocker Spaniel Mix: Buy Or Adopt?

Ok, so you planned it all out, picked the breed, and even came up with a cute name like Jeffy or Ariel. Now the big question: buy or adopt a Pug and Cocker Spaniel mix pooch? It is really up to you. In my opinion, it is a much better option to adopt since you can give a chance at a loving home to an abandoned pal who needs it so desperately! 

Not only that, it is a less expensive option as well! An average Pug and Cocker Spaniel mix hound costs about $700-$1000. While it is cheaper than getting a purebred Pug or a Cocker separately, it is still a quite hefty price tag if you ask me. Especially if compared to the average adoption price of about $300-$400. 

Besides, if you opt to get your Cocker Pug pup at, let’s say, a pet store, you will not be aware of some very important facts. For example: where exactly it came from, what kind of ancestry it has (if any of its predecessors had major health issues), and what type of living conditions it was kept in before you ended up buying it. The latter can considerably influence a dog’s behavior patterns and mental health condition. 

If opting for a Cocker Pug breeder, your chances of getting an all-around healthy, high-quality litter puppy are very high. But so will be the price you’ll be paying for it. In case you want to go this route, make sure to do your research and only go with breeders who have an established, rock-solid reputation in the community.  But where did it all begin for our cute Cocker Pug pal?

History Of Pug and Cocker Spaniel Mix 

Most likely, the Cocker Pug breed emerged sometime in the USA, with the exact year still being unknown. And there’s no real evidence to confirm or deny this fact. But what is known is the origin of the hybrid’s parents. 

Cocker Spaniel

Cockers’ country of origin was most likely Spain somewhere around the 14th century, and the word “Spaniel” is translated from Spanish as the “Spanish Dog.” But the first part of the breed name, Cocker, is actually of an English origin. It was derived from the word “Woodcock,” this medium-sized bird that Spaniels used to very successfully prey on. They would actually startle it enough for a hunter to shoot. It was a very popular sport among the aristocratic circles back in the 1800s. 

Learn more about: Can Dogs Have Cantalope Rind and Be Safe

Pug

The history of the breed goes all the way back to ancient times when Pugs served as companions to noble families as well as guards, and protectors of assets. They also lived with Tibetian monks in the monasteries, where they served as watchdogs. From Tibet, they made their way into China.

The Chinese royal court adored Pugs and guarded them just like the other royal family members. These were some lucky pups to live in luxury and be treated as dog royalty. 

pug mix with cocker spaniel
Pug Mix with Cocker Spaniel

Pros and Cons Of Owning A Pug and Cocker Spaniel Mix

Getting a pet is a serious, responsible decision and you have to be sure that the breed you choose is suitable for your particular lifestyle as well as wallet. After all, you will be buying it food, bedding, and toys, and taking it to the vet. Some breeds require more expenses than others. So, if you are still contemplating whether to get a Cocker Pug hybrid pup or not, take a look at this pros and cons list. 

Pros:

  1. Suitable for Any Living Space: since they are relatively small dogs, they don’t need a lot of roaming around space. 
  2. Loyal and Loving Dogs: this is a very affectionate type of breed that becomes super attached to its pet parents. Get ready to be showered with lots of wet kisses and cozy cuddles. 
  3. Kid-Friendly Breed: couples who already have human babies, have to cautiously choose the dog breed they are bringing into the house. The Pug and Cocker Spaniel mix breed fits the profile of a playful and non-aggressive pooch. You won’t need to worry about it snapping or biting. It is too intelligent to do that.   

Cons: 

  1. Require a Lot of Exercise to Stay in Shape: this hybrid hound requires a lot more exercise than its Pug ancestor since it has Cocker Spaniel blood in it. And, as we discussed above, the latter were always used for hunting purposes.
  2. Grooming Needs Are Demanding: the Cocker Pug mix pup’s coat will be much longer than the Pug’s. Therefore, you will have to invest in a good de-shedding brush to keep its mane in perfect shape. 
  3. May Become Stubborn in Training: that’s the Pug DNA coming out. Cocker Pugs do tend to disobey commands a lot while being trained, therefore you need to stay consistent and firm with the rules. Start training your pooch from an early age, so hence it gets used to the routine and learns its boundaries.

Curl-Up

A Pug and Cocker Spaniel mix breed will be an excellent house pet choice! It does require some training as well as grooming maintenance, but it is well worth it in the end because you will get the most loyal, loving, and cuddly friend you could ever have. 

Happy bonding!

Read more about: French Bulldog Mixed With Pug

stuart and his dog

Family Dog Expert Author

Hi there! I’m Stuart, a devoted dog lover and family dog expert with over a decade of experience working with our furry companions. My passion for dogs drives me to share my knowledge and expertise, helping families build strong, loving bonds with their four-legged friends. When I’m not writing for SirDoggie, you’ll find me hiking, playing with my beautiful dog, or studying music.