Jug Dog Breed

Black Jug Dog
  • Other names:
  • Jackpug
  • Pugell
Overview

The Jug is a hybrid dog obtained from crossing a Pug with a Jack Russell Terrier. They are considered a "designer" hybrid breed and have become steadily more popular over the last 10 years. Although the consensus is, currently, that they retain more of a Pug-like appearance, they actually can vary quite a bit in looks. Jugs are known for being outgoing, playful and loving, making excellent companions for those of all ages. If trained and socialized early, they get along very well with other pets. Members of this breed are low maintenance when it comes to grooming, training and exercise but are prone to "small dog syndrome" and separation anxiety if not given enough attention.

Jug Breed Details

Breed Specs
TypeLifespanHeightWeight
Hybrid12-15 yrs.10-14 in.12-16 lbs
  • Friendliness
  • Overall
  • Family Friendly
  • Kid Friendly
  • Pet Friendly
  • Stranger Friendly
  • Maintenance
  • Easy to Groom
  • Energy Level
  • Exercise Needs
  • General Health
  • Shedding Amount
  • Behavior
  • Barks / Howls
  • Easy to Train
  • Guard Dog
  • Playfulness
  • Watch Dog
  • Ownership
  • Apartment Friendly
  • Can Be Alone
  • Good for Busy Owners
  • Good for Novice Owners
  • Intelligence
* The more green the stronger the trait.

Below are details and specs for the Jug dog breed.

Jug Breed Description

These are small to toy-sized dogs that stand 10-14 inches at the shoulder and weigh 12-16 pounds.

If socialized and trained as a puppy, Jugs make affectionate, playful companions for owners of all ages. They will also get along with other pets and be social and outgoing with other dogs in general.

The Jug is a low maintenance dog in regards to grooming, training, and exercise. They may develop separation anxiety if not given enough interaction.

Jug Breed History

This breed is a relatively recent hybrid that has been gaining popularity over the last 10 years or so. The Jug is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry.

Jug Appearance

For the most part, the Jug inherits the appearance of the Pug but lighter in size; they are small and still somewhat stocky but, luckily, have a longer muzzle that prevents many breathing problems that come with the Pug. They are toy sized to small sized, have a round head and a curly tail (like the Pug). Their wrinkly faces sport dark, round eyes and are framed by medium-sized, triangular ears that drop forward. The coat is short and often fawn colored; they may have a black mask/markings or they may not. However, they actually do come in variaous colors and the coat may be longer (especially on the face) if the Jack Russell had a "rough coat". It is important to note that, as this is a hybrid dog breed, there will be variation among Jugs (even those from the same litter).

Jug Coloring

Jugs are typically fawn, black, or tan/caramel and may have black or fawn colored markings.

Jug Size

This is considered a small or even "toy sized" breed. Fully grown they are often 10-14 inches at the shoulder and can weigh 12-16 pounds. As hybrid dogs, there is typically more variation in size than the purebred parents.

Average Adult Height

10-14 in
*Height is measured in inches from the front paws to the top of the shoulder while the dog is standing on all four legs.

Average Adult Weight

12-16 lbs

Jug Variations

F1 Jugs are simply crosses between purebred Pugs and purebred Jack Russells. An F1B is when a breeder mates one of the F1's with either a purebred Pug or Jack Russell (depending upon which traits that want to increase). F2s are created by crossing two F1 Jugs. F3's are the product of two F2 Jugs...and so on.

Miniature Jug puppies are bred by crossing a purebred Miniature Jack Russell Terrier with a purebred Pug. Technically, there is no official "Miniature Jack Russell" breed, however, there are many breeders that aim to produce puppies under 10 inches. Pugs, themselves, are already considered a toy sized breed, albeit the largest one. Note that breeding dogs down for size can greatly increase their risk of adverse health conditions.

Jug Temperament

Jugs are affectionate, loving dogs that are said to make wonderful companions for people of all ages. Members of this breed are said to catch on to training pretty well when they have a firm, consistent leader; owners agree that they are an intelligent breed. They are prone to developing "small dog syndrome" and can become quite stubborn if this is not done early and properly. They are also said to be fearless (moreso if they retain Jack Russell traits) so when exercising them outdoors they should be leashed. Although they get along with other pets, if they retain more Jack Russell characteristics, they may have a natural inclination to chase small critters.

Jug and Children

These dogs can be playful, affectionate family companions if trained and socialized from a young age.

Jug and Other Pets

These dogs are quite compatible with other animals and are friendly and social. If they inherit more Jack Russell traits, they may have a slight prey drive to chase small animals. It is always best to socialize your new pet as early as possible.

Jug and Strangers

Although they are not shy to bark, Jugs are friendly and are typically not aggressive. They are not guard dogs by any means.

Jug Photos

Below are pictures and images of the Jug dog breed.

Fawn Jug Dog
Fawn Jug Dog
Tan Jug Puppy
Tan Jug Dog
Black Jug Dog

Jug Maintenance

Overall, this breed can be considered low maintenance. They need little more than weekly brushing to remove dead hairs. They do need daily outdoor exercise, but it needn't be extensive, especially if they inherit more pug characteristics. Most owners and experts contend that this little guy is intelligent and quickly picks up on training. That being said, they are also known to be stubborn and easily develop "small dog syndrome". Immediate and consistent, firm yet positive training is needed.

Grooming Requirements

The Jug is a shedder and should be brushed at least once per week to remove dead hairs from the coat. Check their teeth weekly, at a minimum, as their teeth are prone to tartar buildup. A weekly ear cleaning is also recommended. Monitor the nails, every once in a while, for trimming and make sure to take care of them immediately if you hear them on the floor when your pet walks.

Exercise Requirements

These dogs have a moderate amount of energy to be burned off daily. It will be slightly less if they retain more Pug characteristics; in this case be sure not to exercise outdoors when it is very hot. A daily walk will keep them happy and they enjoy socializing at the dog park.

Living Requirements

Jugs make great indoor dogs, especially for apartments due to their small size. Members of this breed sometimes snore and if you find your Jug's snoring is a problem, you may opt to have surgery performed to reduce this.

Temperature Range

Jugs are likely to suffer in extreme temperatures. They have a short coat that may allow them to become uncomfortable in very cold weather. Although the muzzle is longer than that of the Pug parent, it is still relatively short and in very warm temperatures this can cause breathing problems.

Random Details

Jugs are likely to suffer in extreme temperatures. They have a short coat that may allow them to become uncomfortable in very cold weather. Although the muzzle is longer than that of the Pug parent, it is still relatively short and in very warm temperatures this can cause breathing problems.

Jug Health

Hybrids are often bred to attempt to limit health problems found in their purebred parents. The Jug does, indeed, lose quite a few of the notorious Pug issues since the muzzle is longer; however, it does not rule them out completely, especially in warm weather. With good health, this breed generally lives 12-15 years.

  • Legg-perthes Disease
  • Patellar Luxation

Jug Breed Recognition

The following dog breed registries and organizations recognize the Jug as a dog breed:

  • American Canine Hybrid Club
  • Designer Dogs Kennel Club
  • International Designer Canine Registry