Is The Pug and Dalmatian Mix Right For You

What is a Pug and Dalmatian mix dog?  Is this just a mixed breed dog or is it a so-called Designer breed?  In this article, we will discuss a Pug and Dalmatian mix, better known as a Pugmatian.

Dalmatian Pug Mix

A Dalmatian Pug mix is not a purebred dog. It is, therefore, a hybrid, designer dog.

As such they will not all look exactly alike but all will have characteristics of each of the parent dogs. These dogs are not in demand like some other crosses with a Dalmatian or across with a Pug. They have a distinctive look. In fact, they can look like a Boxmatian, which is a cross between a Boxer and a Dalmatian.

It is wise before obtaining one of these Pugmatians to ask to see both parents and to see the grandparents if possible. This will help ensure that the dog being purchased is actually a Pugmatian, that is a Dalmatian Pug Mix.  If at all possible, try to look at as many relatives of the dog as possible. This is because not all hybrid, designer dogs are bred with 50% of each of the breeds.  Some do multi-generational breeding. It is possible that the dog can have any combination of all of the characteristics found in both the Dalmatian and the pug.

Dalmatian Mix DNA

To be sure you are getting a Pugmatian it might be wise to have a DNA test run on the pup or dog you are interested in obtaining.  A DNA test is easy to obtain and a reputable breeder (if you are willing to pay for the test, most likely will allow you to have the test run.) For instance, I have a Saint Bernard and his coloring is not as red as most of the Saints. He has grey hair over his coat.  We had a DNA test run on him and it came back that he was all Saint Bernard.

So, if you question that the dog or pup might be a Boxmatian instead of a Pugmatian, it would be wise to check the parents and maybe do a DNA test.

Pug and Dalmatian Mix

So back to our original question. What is the Pug and Dalmatian mix dog that is referred to as a Pugmatian? This is a hybrid-designer small to medium-sized adorable little dog.  They are considered a rare designer mix and have only been bred in the last 10 to 20 years. This crossbreed is not widely found throughout the world.

In order to get a better picture of the crossbreed, it is necessary to look at the parent dogs. They are the result of breeding the Dalmatian and the Pug. Both of these breeds have a good long time standing in all countries.

The Dalmatian can trace its history back to the 1600s in Croatia. They are strong hunters. The Pugmation has been used to control rats and other vermin. They are very compatible with horses. Thus, one of the reasons they became dogs was that worked for firefighters. To this day they are mascots for many fire departments.

The Pug, on the other hand, traces its history to the Pre-16^th century and was mainly bred to be companions for royal Chinese families.  They were very treasured and valuable dogs to Chinese Emperors.

Dalmatian Pug Mix

The Pugmations are very loyal and affectionate with their human family. They weigh approximately 25 pounds at full grown and they are about 15 inches tall. The Dalmation Pug mix is highly intelligent and friendly.  They need to be socialized and then will make great members of the family.  They do shed a lot as both the Dalmatian and the Pug shed a lot. The Dalmation mix has what would be considered as a medium level of energy and they need daily exercise.

Since both the Dalmatian and the Pug are great companion dogs the Pugmatian wants to be with their people. Due to this, they are not good dogs for families that are gone most of the day. For instance, they are known to have some separation anxiety. This dog will be better suited to a family where someone is home most of the time.  The Dalmation Pug mix loves people of all ages and are great furry friend for children. They are brave little dogs that are dedicated to their families and make good watchdogs.

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More Characteristics

They need positive reinforcement as they are at times very stubborn. They need to have patience and understanding trainers.  Pugmatian usually resembles the pug with wrinkled faces and short bodies. Their ears are floppy. Their coloring can be fawn, black, white, sable, or brown. They sometimes do not have spots but a lot of them do.

However, they can have coats that resemble the Dalmatian with black spots on them. Looking at them would make a person think that the pug gene is the dominant gene. They are really adorable-looking little dogs. With the right care, they can live 10 to 13 years.

Health Issues For The Pug and Dalmatian Mix

Like most dogs, they might have genetic health issues. Since they are hybrid-designer dogs from both the pug and the Dalmatian, they are susceptible to genetic health issues from each of those breeds. Here are some of the health issues these little furry friends can develop from the genetics of the parent breeds.

1. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome- also known as BOAS -this affects dogs with short snouts like the pug. It can result in the Pug and Dalmatian mix having difficulty breathing. Breeding the pug with the Dalmatian can help reduce this problem to some degree. If it is inherited it should be a milder issue than a purebred pug would have.
2. Conjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) or dry eyes
3. Entropion- a condition where the eyelid is rolled inward against the eyeball. Results as irritation of the eye by the lashes.
4. The Pug and Dalmation mix can have dermatitis in the folds of the skin where wrinkles can be. Mainly on the face.
5. Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome—which is a brown pigmentation that grows across the cornea.
6. Urolithiasis is the formation of stony concretions in the bladder or the urinary tract.
7. Deafness—many Dalmatians are deaf. Therefore, the Dalmatian mix might be deaf.
8. Hypothyroidism- which is an underactive thyroid condition.

These all are reasons why it is essential that the Pug and Dalmatian Mix has regular visits with a veterinarian.  It is important to keep an eye on the possibility of developing any of these conditions.

Pug and Dalmatian Mix

In conclusion, we have found that the Pug and Dalmatian Mix is better known as the

Pugmation. This hybrid is a great family dog.  For instance, they love to be with their people, and is good for a family. However, with their separation anxiety, someone needs to be home most of the time. This will prevent these anxiety issues for the dog.

This dog is loyal, dedicated, and energetic. Due to some of the major genetic health issues the dog may have it is wise to have regular veterinarian visits for this furry friend. They are a rare hybrid-designer breed that with good loving care should be able to live 10 to 13 years.

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