Pom-A-Pug

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: October 22nd, 2018

About Pom-A-Pug

Height

8-13 inches

Weight

7-15 lb

Lifespan

12-16 years

Group

Not applicable

Best Suited For

Seniors, singles, families with or without children, people living in an apartment

Temperament

Friendly, energetic, loyal, affectionate, sweet, playful

Comparable Breeds

Pug, Pomeranian

Pom-A-Pug Basics

You’d be hard pressed to find anyone who isn’t charmed by the wrinkly Pug or the fluffy Pomeranian. So, it’s no wonder that their mixed offspring, the adorable Pom-A-Pug is one of the most popular designer dog breeds out there! Also known as Pomapug, Puguranian, Pugapom, Pugpom, or Pug-Pom, this hybrid dog is small in stature but with a big personality. Pom-A-Pug dogs are known to be smart, loyal and very affectionate. If socialized on time, they make wonderful family pets, and get along with kids and other furry family members.

Due to extreme differences in the looks between the parental breeds, it’s almost impossible to predict how Pom-A-Pug puppies will turn out looking when they grow up. Even across one litter, the variations can be mind-boggling: some puppies might favor the brachycephalic Pug more than the foxy-faced Pomeranian, while others might inherit longer hair rather than a closely clipped coat. This means that there are no guarantees when it comes to the appearance of Pom-A-Pug, but one thing’s for sure- you’ll adore your new furry best friend, regardless of which parent they look like more.

Pom-A-Pug dogs are known to be smart, loyal and very affectionate.

Origin

Not unlike all designer dog breeds, the Pom-A-Pug has a mysterious past. While there have been a lot of “accidents” over the years which gave us Puguranian puppies even before we had the name for them, it’s only recently that breeders began developing this hybrid dog intentionally. It’s estimated that first litters gotten by purposely crossing a Pomeranian with a Pug were created in the United States, sometime in the last two decades, when crossbreeding became a popular practice.

Of course, the fact that we dub the origin of the Pom-A-Pug as mysterious doesn’t mean that same goes for his ancestors. Both the Pomeranian and the Pug were first recognized as breeds centuries ago when their petite stature and lovable characters earned them a place in the lap of nobles and aristocrats. Many generations after, these dog breeds remain one of the most loved and popular pets across the world.

Pedigree

For a breeder to obtain pedigree papers for a puppy, they have to be recognized by the American Kennel Club or another official canine organization in their country. However, designer dogs, in general, are still not recognized as official breeds, which makes it impossible for the Pom-A-Pug or any other hybrid to have a pedigree. However, the fact that the puppy doesn’t have a pedigree won’t mean that its parents don’t. In fact, a reputable breeder will be able to give you information about your new puppy’s family tree and the line they originated from. Sometimes, if the parents have a show-quality pedigree, it can impact the price of their puppies.

Either way, if a breeder doesn’t seem willing to provide this information or doesn’t have papers for his Pom or Pug, it’s likely that they’re a puppy mill. Buying from a backyard breeder is strongly discouraged, as this supports their inhumane practices and makes it more likely for your new pet to be sick and prone to various issues throughout their life.

Food/Diet

Picking out the right food for your Pom-A-Pug pet won’t be hard. Same as all dogs, these mixed breed pooches also require a well-balanced diet consisting of high-quality, nutritive pet food. The most common choice is relying on commercial dry dog food to satisfy your pet’s need for vitamins and nutrients, and most blends designed for small dogs of moderate activity level will be a good fit. Additionally, you can introduce wet canned food to make their kibble more appetizing or homecooked meals as an occasional treat.

Another important thing to know about the Pom-A-Pug and their diet is that these designer dogs are greedy eaters. They’re not terribly picky and they’re very treat motivated, which can lead to potential health issues if their owner fails to restrain their incredible appetite. Treating your pooch to yummies can be a good training aid, but don’t overdo it- the Pom-A-Pug easily gains weight. Obesity-related health problems are particularly common among small breed dogs, so portion out their meals according to their needs, and not their wants.

These small dogs have big appetite- make sure not to to indulge them with too much treats as this can lead to obesity.

Training

The Pom-A-Pug is a people pleaser by nature, treat motivated and incredibly smart. All of these traits make this hybrid dog breed very easy to train. They tend to pick up commands fairly quickly and delight when they see their tricks are making their favorite human happy. With positive reinforcement training method, you could teach your Pom-A-Pug everything from where to go potty to playing dead on command. A little patience and dedication go a long way!

Of course, sometimes the Pom-A-Pug can inherit a stubborn streak from its Pomeranian parent. This can make training slightly more difficult than you’d initially expect, but even in this case, you shouldn’t have any major problems with your training sessions. After all, any dog can be trained if you manage to crack the mystery of what motivates them! Hint: it’s usually a lot of praise or a crunchy meat treat.

Weight

With all designer dogs, the element of surprise is always present. First generation crossbreed puppies are wildly unpredictable when it comes to their appearance, but as the Pomeranian and the Pug are close in size, the weight of the Pom-A-Pug shouldn’t vary much. On average, the Pom-A-Pug weighs between 7 to 15 pounds.

Temperament/Behavior

We already know that the Pom-A-Pug is cute as a button, but what about their personality? Is the adorable mix of the Pomeranian and a Pug all looks, no brains? Fortunately, the charming mugs of these pooches are not all the breed has to offer. The Pom-A-Pug combines two breeds that have been developed as companion dogs for centuries. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that their babies have great personalities, as well! The Pom-A-Pug is loving, sweet, playful and friendly. If socialized on time, these designer dogs will love kids, strangers, and other pets from the get-go! Sometimes, though, some of the less appealing parental traits can surface, too. From the Pom in the mix, your puppy can inherit the tendency to bark and act like a big dog trapped in a small body.

Additionally, their devoted and affectionate side can lead to behavior issues, too. Unless they’re taught to feel safe when home alone or crate-trained, the Pom-A-Pug can develop separation anxiety. This destructive behavior can be tough to overcome once it’s there, but timely socialization or a canine companion could be the solution to the problem.

Common Health Problems

Overall, mixed breed dogs and mutts have a reputation for being healthier than their purebred fellows. How about designer dogs? While there is some truth in them being less prone to congenital issues than their parents, it’s not all that easy and guaranteed when it comes to genetics. The Pom-A-Pug is a great example of this. As a hybrid dog, it can either have far fewer health problems than Pomeranian or the Pug, but it can also inherit issues from both of its parents. It’s all about the genetic lottery!

In general, the Pom-A-Pug is prone to a few issues, and a lot will depend on which parental breed the puppy takes up after. For instance, if the Pug’s genes are more dominant, issues common for brachycephalic breeds will be more of a concern than it would if your Pom-A-Pug has a Pom’s foxy snout.

The list of common health problems for this hybrid dog includes dry skin and proneness to allergies, patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), obesity, eye infections, reverse sneezing, and epilepsy. Additionally, as a small dog breed, the Pom-A-Pug is particularly prone to early tooth loss and dental issues. Maintaining good oral hygiene through routine teeth brushing and dental treats will keep the plaque off your canine’s canines and allow them to keep their teeth even when they approach their golden years.

Life Expectancy

As an established breed, the Pom-A-Pug hasn’t been around long enough for experts to know its accurate life expectancy. However, as a small dog with fairly few major health issues, this designer dog breed should have a long, happy life. Based on what we know about its parental breeds and their life expectancy, it’s probable that your Pom-A-Pug puppy will live from 12 to 16 years.

Exercise Requirements

The Pom-A-Pug is definitely not a high-maintenance dog when it comes to activity levels. The Pomeranian and the Pug are both lively and energetic pooches, but the word ‘energetic’ doesn’t mean the same when applied to a large breed dog and a petite one. The Pom-A-Pug has moderate exercise requirements and it’s not a particularly active breed. About 30 to 45 minutes of activity will keep this hybrid dog happy and healthy. This could be a long walk, paired with a game of fetch in a nearby dog park or a fenced backyard- whatever your pupper prefers!

Of course, physical activity is not the only type of exercise the Pom-A-Pug needs to be a content dog. As an intelligent breed, these pooches will thrive when their mind is stimulated, and, in the same manner, get depressed or destructive when they’re not challenged. Pick up a few puzzle toys for your new pet- they’ll surely appreciate it.

Pom-A-Pug has moderate exercise requirements and it’s not a particularly active breed.

Recognized Clubs

The American Kennel Club might not recognize designer dog breeds, but there are numerous organizations that do. Many crossbreeding enthusiasts work tirelessly to ensure that breeding designer dogs is up to standards and that these unique canines become as widely recognized and their purebred parents. The list of clubs that recognize the Pom-A-Pug includes American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, and International Designer Canine Registry

Coat

When it comes to their hair, the Pomeranian and Pug couldn’t be more different. The Pom is known for its long, fluffy fur and the flat-faced Pug sports the distinct short coat that’s easy to groom. So, what about their mix? The Pom-A-Pug can have either medium-length or short hair, and a coat that comes in various colors, but favoring shades like beige and fawn. The coat can be smooth or slightly coarse, but in either of the combinations, it won’t be a hassle to groom.

The Pom-A-Pug is easy to keep pretty and tidy, and brushing them a few times a week will minimize shedding and maintain their hair shiny and soft. Regular bathing is not necessary as these are not dogs that have a naturally strong odor. When they start to smell or get dirty, you can get them a bath, but make sure to choose shampoo and conditioner that suit their dry and sensitive skin.

Puppies

With their short snouts, big soulful eyes and spunky character, Pom-A-Pug puppies will charm the pants off of you as soon as you see them! They are very cute and lovely, and it’s easy to see why these designer dogs are so popular. However, Pom-A-Pug puppy will need training and socialization to make sure that their character is as wonderful as their appearance. Start with potty training and basic commands, and progress from there.

Once they are all grown up, Pom-A-Pug dogs will be friendly, sweet, and very affectionate to their family members. They tend to get along with other dogs, as well, so they are a good choice for people who are looking to get another dog for their family. They are not overly active and demanding when it comes to their grooming, so they can be a great option for a senior looking for a four-legged companion.

Photo credit: Annette Shaff/Shutterstock; Cori Cornejo/Shutterstock; Caz Harris Photography/Shutterstock

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Although you might be familiar with the Sphynx cat, there are other hairless breeds that are just as intriguing and worth checking out if you want to add a rare hairless kitty to your household. Here are four hairless cat breeds and some of their distinctive features.

Why Is My Puppy Whining?

While bringing a puppy home can be such a joyful and exciting event, it doesn’t mean it’s without challenges –especially for first-time dog owners. One of the (many) burning questions new puppy parents have is why their pet is whining and if it’s a sign of distress. Simply put, just like human babies, puppies need to communicate with the brand-new world around them. They do this by whining, which is their number one tool for expressing fear, hunger, frustration, or anything in between. The nuances can be difficult to spot when you’re not experienced with puppies, but once you know what to look for, it will be easy to differ when your puppy is whining because they are looking for a second breakfast or if it’s a more serious cause.Why Is My Puppy Whining? 5 Most Common Reasons for Puppy WhiningOne of the most common reasons why a puppy would whine is attention seeking. When faced with a new environment and away from their parents, puppies will usually feel scared and lonely, particularly if you are away. So, when they whine, they ask for comfort and company. Remember that these are social creatures, especially at such an early age, and if they feel neglected, they will whine until someone reacts. That is why it is crucial not to underestimate this need and to provide your puppy with lots of attention, playtime, and dog toys that would keep them engaged and feeling secure. Of course, it is not always about attention. Puppies will often whine to communicate that they are hungry or thirsty. Unlike adult dogs, puppies need multiple meals throughout the day, so make sure that you keep a regular feeding schedule that suits your puppy's developmental needs. In case your puppy is whining when it's close to meal time, it might just be their way of reminding you that it’s time to eat. Sometimes, the reason for a puppy to whine might be super simple, like fear and anxiety. After all, new environments, unfamiliar people, and loud noises are enough to scare anyone, let alone a fragile little puppy. One of the particular sources of anxiety for them is separation. They will quickly build a connection with you, and as soon as you leave, they might feel abandoned. To relieve this anxiety and minimize their whining, you should provide them with a source of comfort, like a favorite plush toy, a blankie, or even a piece of your clothing.

Does My Cat Need a Litter Box When Travelling?

Traveling with your best furry friend by your side can be an exciting adventure. It’s a great opportunity to make lifelong memories while strengthening that special bond. However, some questions about their essential needs will naturally arise as you start planning…One of the biggest concerns for cat owners is whether or not to bring a litter box. It’s a valid question!This article will explore the pros and cons of traveling with a litter box. I’ll also discuss the different litter box types available and which may be best suited for different forms of travel, including road trips, camping, hotel stays, and more.Ensure a smooth journey for both you and your cat by checking out these tips and recommendations:Do Cats Need a Litter Box When Traveling?Whether or not your cat will need a litter box during your travels will depend on the style of travel you plan. Setting your cat up comfortably in your vehicle for a long road trip makes it much easier to provide access to a litter box during travel than flying with a cat.You must also consider the length of your travels, where you will stay overnight, and other factors related to your vacation plans. While your cat can take a flight safely without access to a box (assuming they have been given a chance to do their business before boarding the plane and after you have landed), the same can’t be said for an overnight stay at a pet-friendly hotel.Let’s break it all down a little further…How Do You Travel with a Cat Without a Litter Box?Some travel plans simply can’t accommodate the use of a litter box. The most common example of this is flying with a cat. However, litter boxes are also off the table when taking your cat on other forms of public transit, like a bus or train.If you know your cat will be without their litter box for an extended period, allow them to “do their business” right before your travels begin. Many airports have dog bathroom stations, where you could also go to let your cat relieve themselves. Alternatively, you may choose to let them have their last bathroom break before leaving your cat to enter the airport.One way to handle this is to bring a disposable litter box with a small amount of litter when you leave the house. Alternatively, if your cat is a frequent traveler, you may be able to train them to do their business on a puppy pee pad. This is easier to bring along in these situations and easier to dispose of when they are finished.It is also recommended to not feed your cat at least six hours before any travel where a litter box won’t be available. This allows any food in their system to hopefully pass, reducing the risk they will need to go and, in turn, preventing accidents. Although, I still recommend lining their carrier with a pee pad as an extra layer of protection.How Long Can Cats Go Without a Litter Box?Will your cat be without a litter box for a while during travel? Don’t fret! While you shouldn’t encourage your cat to “hold it” on a regular basis, cats have been known to go 24-48 hours safely without going to the bathroom. This is, of course, the extreme. However, it does mean that a 6-hour flight isn’t a significant concern.Of course, every cat is different. Some cats will be able to wait this time without a problem. Others, however, may need to go to the bathroom more frequently. This is especially important to note if you have a kitten, a senior cat, or a cat with a medical condition that could impact their bathroom needs.What is the Best Type of Litter Box for Your Cat-Friendly Travels?There are several different types of cat litter boxes to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s look at the options available and which may be the best choice for your next vacation (and why):Standard Plastic Litter BoxesIf you are traveling in an RV or travel trailer, you may be able to bring your cat’s usual litter box. Some common places to place a box include inside a floor-level cupboard, under a bench seat, or in the shower area when the shower isn’t in use.The biggest benefit of bringing your cat’s litter box from home is familiarity. Your cat knows that box, and it already has their scent. While the box's location is obviously going to change, having so many familiar elements may make it easier for your cat to adjust, reducing the risk of accidents.Cloth Travel Litter BoxesThese travel litter boxes are constructed from a durable material with a leak-proof lining, creating a lighter-weight solution for travel. I recommend choosing a cloth box with a lid. This allows you to seal off the box, keeping the litter (and odor) contained and allowing you to make a litter box accessible when needed without having to empty and refill it each time. Cloth boxes also usually have some form of carrying handle.The HiCaptain Portable Travel Litter Box is an excellent example of a standard cloth travel box. However, if your cat is used to a covered box at home, you may want to splurge on the Petsfit Upgrade Travel Portable Cat Litter Box.Nylon Travel Litter BoxA favorite of mine for travel due to how small it folds up, the OutdoorBengal Travel Litter Box for Cats is a portable and fully collapsible litter box option that folds up smaller than any other box on this list. We often use this box when backpacking or backcountry camping, where we are extremely limited on space for our gear.When your cat needs to use the box, snap the four corners together, and this flat piece of material transforms into a square box. It is constructed with a waterproof Oxford liner that can be easily wiped clean with a disinfectant wipe for quick and effective cleaning.

Dog Nurturing Cherry Tomato Goes Viral on TikTok

Juicy, ripe treat brings out the maternal side of this little dog.

Dog Achieves Internet Fame with Her "Puppy Parkour"

The internet has opened the door for a new type of celebrity, making it easier than ever for individuals (humans and pets) to achieve fame and recognition on a global scale. Thousands of people around the world log onto social media each day to enjoy funny, adorable, and unique pet videos. One such internet sensation that has recently captured the attention of thousands is Nola, a Treeing Walker Coonhound mix from New York. Vanessa and Ryan Marquette first met Nola when they brought her into their home as a foster. She was adorable and well-behaved, quickly connecting with the couple and making herself at home. It didn’t take long for the couple to fall in love. It was only three months after first bringing her home that they made it official and adopted her. “We could tell right away she felt so at home,” Ryan stated, “and she quickly became part of the family.” Not long after welcoming Nola into the family, a pet sitter mentioned that she was exhibiting an interesting (and potentially problematic) skill. They warned the couple that the pup had managed to jump over the tall fence that surrounded their property. Given the height of the fence and the fact that they had never seen Nola making any impressive jumps in the house, it was hard for the Marquettes to believe that she could leap over the fence in one bound. It seemed like an unbelievable feat. So, they pushed the idea aside and didn’t give it another thought. “I didn’t believe that she was jumping the fence. That’s a four-foot jump. That’s significant. She’s not the biggest dog in the world. So, I remember going out and walking the entire fence perimeter, looking for holes because I was like, there’s no way. She’s slipping out underneath somewhere doing something, and that’s how she’s getting out. Then I found nothing,” Ryan explained. However, after moving to a new home in Syracuse, New York, with a larger yard and trees around the property, they noticed something interesting. It wasn’t that Nola was “jumping” over the fence. Instead, she was using her own take of puppy parkour to scale the fence with the help of a nearby tree.

Stray Named Houdini Proves Not So Easy to Catch in the Big Easy

Six months on the lam, this little pooch gained a legion of social media fans hoping for his safe capture.

Why Do Dogs Burrow in Their Blankets?

Have you ever watched your dog bury themselves beneath a mountain of blankets, only to peek their head out with a look of pure joy and bliss? It’s a behavior that’s incredibly common. Yet it leaves so many dog parents confused – especially when your dog chooses to disappear into the blankets in the middle of the summer heat!Why are dogs so drawn to burrowing under their blankets? Is this a quirky habit, or is there a deeper reason for this cozy behavior?Let’s take a look at the fascinating world of canine behavior. We’ll talk about the instincts that encourage your dog to dig into their bedding to create that perfect “nest” and other interesting behaviors related to puppy bedtime.Why Do Dogs Love to Burrow?Like many dog habits, burrowing can be traced back to their evolutionary roots and the survival instincts of their wild ancestors. In the wild, dogs burrow in the ground to create a safe space to rest or raise their young. We still see these dens being used by foxes and wolves. Dens not only offered a place to hide from potential predators but also protected them from the elements. Today, domesticated dogs obviously aren’t faced with the same risks. However, this doesn’t take away from the natural desire to keep themselves safe. Burrowing into the blankets to create a den creates a space where your dog feels safe and secure. It makes sense to snuggle under the blankets in the winter for a little added warmth. But what about the summer? Next time you are outdoors on a hot summer day, dig away a little dirt, and you’ll find that while the surface is warm, the ground a little further down is much cooler. Therefore, they associate this behavior with finding a cooler spot shielding them from the summer heat. Can Dogs Breathe Comfortably Under the Covers? One concern I often hear when people see my dog Lucifer snuggling happily under the covers (his favorite place to sleep) is whether he can breathe safely. When assessing whether your dog’s burrowing behavior is safe, take a moment to consider their survival instinct. If a dog gets into a situation where they can’t breathe, they aren’t going to choose to remain there – instead, they will make an effort to get back out to safety as quickly as possible. A dog snuggling happily under the blankets feels safe and secure, meaning they can clearly breathe well enough to feel comfortable there. If you’re still concerned about the safety of your blanket-loving dog, take a moment to look at the blankets that are available to them: Are they thick, heavy blankets that can be stuffy, cutting off airflow? Are they thinner or designed in a way that allows airflow? Consider offering multiple blankets of varying thicknesses. This will allow your dog to burrow in and find the blanket (or combination of blankets) that makes them feel the most comfortable. Which Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Exhibit Burrowing Behavior?Some dog breeds are more likely to engage in this behavior. This is usually due to the roles your dog’s ancestors were bred to perform. For instance, Huskies and Malamutes are often burrowers. These are Arctic breeds that lived and worked in subzero temperatures. Creating dens in the snow was a necessary part of their survival when living in those conditions, making it an instinctual behavior. While your northern dog may no longer live in the land of ice and snow, they still exhibit many of the same instincts. Dogs that were bred to hunt rodents are also natural burrowers. During their hunts, they would often dig to help them squeeze into the small dens and tunnels created by their prey, flushing them out. This includes smaller breeds like Dachshunds and Terriers. Any dog, regardless of breed, may embrace the joy of burrowing – either digging a den outdoors or burrowing into the blankets. Just ask my German Shepherd/Australian Cattle Dog, Lucifer. He loves nothing more than to snuggle comfortably under the blankets!

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