Pugwich
The Pugwich is a cross between the Pug and the Norwich Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Pugwich. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Pug
The Pug is a small but solidly built toy breed with a distinctive square, compact body and substantial muscular development that belies its diminutive size. Standing 10 to 13 inches at the withers and weighing between 14 and 18 pounds, the breed embodies the Latin phrase multum in parvo, meaning a lot in a little. The body is well-proportioned with a level topline and broad chest, supported by sturdy, straight legs that contribute to the breed's characteristic rolling gait. The overall build reflects the breed's mastiff heritage, presenting a muscular and cobby appearance with excellent substance for a toy breed. The head is large and round with a flat face, featuring a short, blunt muzzle that creates the breed's distinctive brachycephalic appearance. The forehead displays deep wrinkles, including a vertical crease known as the prince mark, which resembles a Chinese character and was historically prized in Chinese breeding programs. The Pug possesses a short, smooth double coat that lies close to the body and has a soft, glossy texture. The breed comes in several color variations including fawn, apricot, silver fawn, and solid black, with fawn and black being the most commonly recognized in show standards. Fawn-colored Pugs display a black mask covering the muzzle and ears, along with a dark trace line running down the spine. The coat sheds year-round, with double-coated individuals shedding more heavily than those with single coats. Regular brushing helps manage the considerable shedding this breed produces. Prominent facial features define this breed's appearance, including large, dark, globular eyes that are set wide apart and project somewhat from the skull, giving the Pug its characteristic expression of concern or curiosity. The ears are small, soft, and velvety, folding either as button ears or rose ears close to the head. Perhaps the Pug's most recognizable feature is its tightly curled tail, which sits high on the hip and curls in a characteristic spiral over the hindquarters, with a double curl being particularly prized in show dogs. This distinctive tail formation results from a natural spinal deviation in the lower vertebrae extending into the tail bones.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Pugs are fairly laid-back dogs that adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes. They are not typically given to extensive barking, digging, or destructive chewing behaviors. However, they do require daily companionship and can become anxious or depressed when left alone for extended periods. The breed enjoys playing games and will enthusiastically chase balls, though they may not always return them. Their brachycephalic structure limits their tolerance for vigorous exercise, particularly in hot or humid conditions, making them better suited to moderate activity levels and indoor living.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Obesity occurs at more than twice the rate in Pugs compared to the average for all dogs, contributing to joint problems, breathing difficulties, and reduced quality of life. Hip dysplasia affects the breed despite its small size, and hemivertebrae, a spinal condition related to the characteristic corkscrew tail, can cause neurological problems in some individuals. Pug Dog Encephalitis is a rare but usually fatal inflammatory brain condition that affects Pugs far more than any other breed. Regular veterinary checkups and working with responsible breeders who screen for hereditary conditions can help identify and manage these health concerns.
Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terrier breeds, presenting a spirited and stocky appearance with a slightly foxy expression that reflects its hunting heritage. Standing no more than 10 inches at the withers and weighing approximately 12 pounds, this compact dog possesses good bone and substance that belies its diminutive size. The body is moderately short with a level topline and well-sprung ribs, creating a sturdy frame capable of pursuing small vermin into underground dens. Short, powerful legs support the muscular body, and the tail is set high and traditionally docked to medium length, though undocked tails are carried slightly above the level of the back when the dog is alert. The head contributes significantly to the breed's characteristic expression, being slightly broad and somewhat rounded between the ears with good width between the eyes. The muzzle is strong and wedge-shaped, approximately one-third the total length of the head, ending in a tight-lipped mouth with large teeth relative to the dog's size. The eyes are small, dark, and oval-shaped with black rims, displaying a keen and intelligent expression. Most distinctively, the ears are medium-sized, set well apart on top of the skull, and carried erect with pointed tips, creating the alert appearance that distinguishes the Norwich from its drop-eared cousin, the Norfolk Terrier. The Norwich Terrier possesses a hard, wiry, weather-resistant double coat that provides excellent protection in challenging conditions. The outer coat lies close to the body and feels rough to the touch, while the undercoat is soft and dense. Hair on the head, ears, and muzzle is short and smooth, with slight eyebrows and whiskers adding character to the face. Coat colors include all shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, and grizzle, with white markings considered undesirable in the show ring. The coat requires minimal trimming and should be shown as naturally as possible, with only slight tidying permitted.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Norwich Terriers form strong bonds with their families and crave companionship, preferring to be involved in household activities rather than left alone for extended periods. They generally get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized, though their bossy nature may lead them to attempt to dominate larger dogs. The breed can be vocal, barking to alert owners of visitors or interesting discoveries, and digging remains a strong instinctual behavior that may require management. Despite these terrier tendencies, Norwich Terriers are more affectionate than many terrier breeds, often seeking cuddle time with their favorite people after active play sessions.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Additional health concerns in the Norwich Terrier include patellar luxation, a common issue in small breeds where the kneecap slides out of its normal position causing intermittent lameness. Hip dysplasia, while less common than in larger breeds, does occur and can contribute to mobility problems. Eye conditions including cataracts and lens luxation require monitoring, and epilepsy affects some individuals. Paroxysmal dyskinesia, a movement disorder causing temporary muscle spasms and unusual postures, has been documented in the breed. Dental disease requires attention due to the breed's small mouth. Regular veterinary checkups and working with breeders who perform health screenings can help identify and manage these conditions early.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Pugwich may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Pug and Norwich Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.