Pug and Weiner Dog Mix (Pugshund): Complete Breed Profile & Care Guide
Everything about the pug and weiner dog mix (Pugshund): size, temperament, health risks, grooming, cost, and whether this designer mix fits your lifestyle.
The Pug and Weiner Dog Mix at a Glance
The pug and weiner dog mix — most commonly called the Pugshund or sometimes the Daug — is a small designer crossbreed that pairs the clownish, people-oriented pug with the bold, curious dachshund (colloquially called the "wiener dog"). This mix produces a compact companion dog typically weighing between 12 and 25 pounds (5–11 kg), though individual variation is significant. The Pugshund is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but it has gained a following among owners who want a small, apartment-friendly dog with big personality.
Before you commit to this mix, it's essential to understand that designer crossbreeds are inherently variable. Unlike purebred dogs with predictable breed standards, a pug and weiner dog mix can inherit any combination of traits from either parent — including body structure, coat type, and health predispositions. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect, what you can't predict, and how to make an informed decision.
- Parent breeds: Pug × Dachshund
- Weight range: 12–25 lb (5–11 kg)
- Height range: 8–13 inches (20–33 cm)
- Lifespan: 12–15 years (with proper care)
- Coat: Short to medium, moderate to heavy shedder
- Best for: Apartment dwellers, singles, retirees, families with older children
Parent Breed Breakdown: Pug vs. Dachshund
Understanding the two parent breeds is the best way to anticipate what a Pugshund puppy might look like and how it might behave. Each parent contributes a distinct set of traits, and the mix can lean heavily toward one side or land somewhere in between.
| Trait | Pug | Dachshund (Standard/Miniature) |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Group | Toy | Hound |
| Weight | 14–18 lb (6–8 kg) | Standard: 16–32 lb (7–15 kg); Miniature: 11 lb and under (5 kg) |
| Height | 10–13 in (25–33 cm) | Standard: 8–9 in (20–23 cm); Miniature: 5–6 in (13–15 cm) |
| Coat | Short, smooth, double coat | Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired |
| Temperament | Affectionate, playful, sociable | Bold, curious, independent, sometimes stubborn |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate | Moderate (surprisingly active for their size) |
| Barking | Moderate | High — bred to alert hunters underground |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy (despite short coat) | Moderate (smooth), low (wire/long) |
| Trainability | Moderate — food-motivated but easily distracted | Moderate to low — independent thinkers |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years | 12–16 years |
The pug brings brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, a deeply social nature, and a tendency toward weight gain. The dachshund contributes a long-backed, short-legged build, strong prey drive, and a vocal watchdog instinct. A pug and weiner dog mix may express any combination of these traits, which is why meeting both parent dogs is so important when evaluating a litter.
Generations Explained: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen Pugshunds
Designer dog breeders use generation labels to describe how the cross was produced. This matters because it affects trait predictability.
- F1 (First Generation): Direct cross of a purebred pug and a purebred dachshund. Puppies inherit 50/50 genetics. This is the most common Pugshund type and typically shows the widest trait variation within a single litter.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Pugshund bred back to one of the parent breeds (usually the pug for a rounder face and calmer temperament, or the dachshund for a longer body). Genetics are roughly 75/25.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Pugshunds bred together. This generation can produce the widest variety of looks and temperaments, even within a single litter — some puppies may look almost purebred pug, others nearly pure dachshund.
- Multigen (F3+): Pugshunds bred to Pugshunds for multiple generations. While some traits may stabilize over time, this mix is still far from the consistency of a purebred breed standard.
Most Pugshunds you'll find from breeders or rescues are F1 crosses. Multigen lines are relatively rare for this particular mix compared to, say, Labradoodles or Goldendoodles. If a breeder advertises a specific generation, ask for documentation of parentage — reputable breeders will provide this readily.
Size, Coat, and Appearance: Predictable vs. Unpredictable Traits
One of the biggest questions prospective owners have is: how big will a pug and weiner dog mix get? The honest answer is that there's a meaningful range, and you won't know exactly where a puppy will land until it's fully grown (around 10–12 months).
| Size Category | Weight | Height at Shoulder | Likely Parent Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (Mini Dachshund parent) | 12–16 lb (5–7 kg) | 8–10 in (20–25 cm) | Miniature dachshund × pug |
| Medium (Standard Dachshund parent) | 17–25 lb (8–11 kg) | 10–13 in (25–33 cm) | Standard dachshund × pug |
Coat Type Possibilities
The pug parent always contributes a short, smooth, double coat. The dachshund parent may carry genes for smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired coats. This means a Pugshund puppy could have:
- Short smooth coat (most common, inherited from both smooth parents) — sleek, easy to brush, but sheds consistently year-round
- Medium-length coat (if the dachshund parent is longhaired) — slightly feathered ears, legs, and tail; requires more frequent brushing
- Wiry coat (if the dachshund parent is wirehaired) — rougher texture, less shedding, but may need occasional hand-stripping
The most frequently seen Pugshund has a short, smooth coat that may or may not be a double coat. Colors range widely: fawn, black, black-and-tan, chocolate, cream, brindle, or any combination. Facial structure is another variable — some Pugshunds inherit a flatter, brachycephalic face from the pug side, while others have the longer muzzle of the dachshund.
Body Structure Variability
This is where things get interesting — and sometimes concerning. A Pugshund may inherit:
- The dachshund's elongated spine and short legs (chondrodysplastic structure)
- The pug's compact, square body with a curled tail
- A blend: slightly elongated body with moderate leg length
- Ears that are rose-shaped (pug) or long and floppy (dachshund) — or one of each
Body structure isn't just cosmetic — it directly affects health risk. A Pugshund that inherits both the dachshund's long spine and the pug's brachycephalic face faces compounding health challenges, which we'll cover in the health section below.
Temperament Range: Best-Case and Challenging Scenarios
The pug and weiner dog mix inherits temperament traits from two very different breed backgrounds. The pug is a companion breed — bred for centuries to sit on laps and charm people. The dachshund is a hunting breed — bred to chase badgers into underground tunnels with tenacity and independence. The resulting mix can lean either direction.
Best-Case Temperament
At their best, Pugshunds are affectionate, playful, and deeply bonded to their families. They tend to be:
- Sociable with familiar people and friendly with strangers after a brief assessment period
- Good-humored and entertaining — pug-style clownishness paired with dachshund boldness
- Adaptable to apartment living, needing moderate daily exercise (30–45 minutes total)
- Alert without being excessively vocal — they'll announce visitors but settle down quickly
- Gentle enough for families with children who understand how to interact respectfully with small dogs
Challenging Temperament Scenarios
Some Pugshunds inherit a more difficult combination of traits:
- Stubbornness from both sides: Pugs are easily distracted; dachshunds are independent thinkers. Together, this can make training sessions frustrating for inexperienced owners. Use positive reinforcement methods — high-value treats, short sessions, and patience.
- High prey drive: If the dachshund hunting instinct dominates, your Pugshund may chase squirrels, rabbits, or even the family cat. Leash reactivity toward small animals is common.
- Resource guarding: Dachshunds can be possessive of food, toys, or favored people. Early counter-conditioning and desensitization are critical if this behavior appears.
- Separation anxiety: The pug's deep attachment to people, combined with dachshund sensitivity, can produce a dog that struggles when left alone for long periods. Crate training from puppyhood helps, but this is not a breed mix suited to 8+ hour solo days.
- Excessive barking: Some Pugshunds inherit the dachshund's tendency to bark at every sound, which can be problematic in apartment settings.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality
One of the most persistent myths about designer dogs is that "hybrid vigor" eliminates all health problems. This is not true. While crossbreeding can reduce the risk of certain recessive genetic conditions that plague inbred purebred lines, a pug and weiner dog mix can inherit health issues from either parent breed — and in some cases, the combination creates unique structural concerns.
Always consult your veterinarian for personalized health guidance for your individual dog. The conditions below are breed predispositions, not guarantees.
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence / Risk | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Dachshund | Dachshunds are 10–12 times more likely to develop IVDD than other breeds. A Pugshund with an elongated spine carries significant risk. | Reluctance to jump, back pain, dragging rear legs, sudden paralysis. Emergency — see vet immediately. |
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Pug | Affects up to 50–70% of brachycephalic breeds. Pugshunds with flat faces are at risk. | Noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, snoring, overheating in warm weather, collapse after exertion. |
| Patellar Luxation | Both | Common in small breeds generally. Grade I–II may be managed conservatively; Grade III–IV often requires surgery ($1,500–$4,000 per knee). | Skipping gait, occasional "hitch" in rear leg movement, reluctance to use stairs. |
| Obesity | Pug (genetic tendency) | Pugs are notoriously food-motivated. Combined with a dachshund's long spine, excess weight dramatically increases IVDD risk. | Body condition score (BCS) above 5/9. Ribs not easily felt. Loss of waist definition. |
| Eye Conditions | Pug | Pugs are prone to corneal ulcers, dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), and proptosis (eye displacement). Pugshunds with prominent eyes share these risks. | Squinting, excessive tearing, redness, pawing at eye. Eye injuries are emergencies. |
| Dental Disease | Both | Small breeds are predisposed to early periodontal disease. Crowded teeth (especially in brachycephalic-influenced dogs) accelerate plaque buildup. | Bad breath, red gums, difficulty eating, loose teeth. Daily brushing recommended. |
What "Hybrid Vigor" Actually Means
Hybrid vigor (heterosis) refers to the reduced likelihood of inheriting recessive genetic diseases when two unrelated gene pools are combined. For example, a Pugshund is less likely to inherit pug-specific encephalitis (PDE) than a purebred pug, because the dachshund parent is unlikely to carry that gene. However, hybrid vigor does not protect against structural issues like IVDD or BOAS, which are influenced by body conformation rather than single recessive genes. A Pugshund with a long back and a flat face faces the same mechanical risks as either parent.
Prevention Strategies
- Weight management: Keep your Pugshund at a lean body condition score (4–5 out of 9). Every extra pound puts disproportionate stress on an elongated spine.
- Spinal protection: Use ramps or pet stairs for furniture access. Discourage jumping on and off beds/couches. Use a harness instead of a collar for leash walks to reduce neck strain.
- Heat precautions: If your Pugshund has a shortened muzzle, avoid exercise in temperatures above 75°F (24°C). Always provide shade and water. Watch for excessive panting or blue-tinged gums.
- Dental care: Brush teeth daily with a dog-specific enzymatic toothpaste. Schedule professional dental cleanings as recommended by your vet (typically annually after age 3).
- Pet insurance: Given the IVDD and BOAS risk, consider a pet insurance policy that covers hereditary and congenital conditions. Expect premiums of $35–$65/month for a small mixed breed, depending on deductible and reimbursement level.
Grooming, Exercise, and Daily Care
Grooming Needs by Coat Type
- Short smooth coat (most common): Brush 2–3 times per week with a rubber grooming mitt or soft bristle brush. Bathe every 4–6 weeks or as needed. Clean facial wrinkles daily if inherited from the pug side — use a damp cloth and dry thoroughly to prevent yeast infections (malassezia dermatitis).
- Medium/long coat: Brush daily to prevent matting behind ears and on feathered legs. Professional grooming every 8–10 weeks may be needed.
- Wire coat: Brush weekly. Hand-stripping every 3–4 months maintains coat texture (or your groomer can do this).
Regardless of coat type, all Pugshunds need regular nail trims (every 2–3 weeks), ear checks (especially if floppy dachshund ears are inherited — these trap moisture and increase infection risk), and daily tooth brushing.
Exercise Requirements
Pugshunds typically need 30–45 minutes of daily activity, which can include:
- Two 15–20 minute leash walks
- Indoor play sessions with puzzle toys or tug
- Supervised sniffing time in a secure yard (mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise)
Adjust exercise based on your dog's inherited structure. Brachycephalic Pugshunds need shorter, cooler walks. Long-backed Pugshunds should avoid high-impact activities like agility jumping or repetitive stair climbing. Swimming can be an excellent low-impact exercise option, but always use a canine life jacket — many small dogs are not natural swimmers.
Cost, Availability, and Finding Your Pugshund
| Source | Price Range | What's Typically Included |
|---|---|---|
| Reputable breeder | $800–$2,000 | Health testing of parents (OFA/PennHIP for patellas, eye CERF), first vaccinations, deworming, health guarantee, take-back clause |
| Backyard breeder / online listing | $300–$800 | Often no health testing, no guarantees. Higher risk of undisclosed health issues. |
| Rescue / shelter adoption | $50–$400 | Spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip often included. Pugshunds appear in rescue occasionally; check breed-specific pug and dachshund rescues as well as general shelters. |
First-Year Budget Estimate
Beyond the purchase or adoption price, budget for first-year expenses:
- Veterinary care (wellness visits, vaccines, spay/neuter if not included): $500–$1,200
- Food (quality small-breed kibble or wet food): $240–$480/year ($20–$40/month)
- Pet insurance: $420–$780/year
- Supplies (crate, harness, ramp, bed, toys, grooming tools): $200–$400
- Training classes (puppy socialization + basic obedience): $150–$300
- Total first-year estimate: $1,500–$3,200+ (excluding purchase price)
Finding a Responsible Source
If purchasing from a breeder, ask for proof of health testing on both parent dogs. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) maintains databases for patellar luxation, cardiac evaluations, and eye certifications. A responsible breeder will also have a take-back clause requiring you to return the dog to them if you can no longer keep it.
For adoption, check breed-specific rescues like Pug Rescue or Dachshund Rescue organizations — they occasionally take in mixed-breed dogs. Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com allow you to search by breed mix.
Who This Mix Suits Best
The pug and weiner dog mix is a good match for:
- Apartment dwellers: Their small size and moderate energy make them well-suited to urban living, provided you commit to daily walks.
- Retirees and work-from-home owners: Pugshunds thrive on companionship and do best with someone home for most of the day.
- Families with children ages 8+: Small dogs can be injured by rough handling. Teach children to respect the dog's space, and always supervise interactions. Never allow a child to pick up a Pugshund without guidance — the long back requires proper support.
- First-time owners with patience: The Pugshund's moderate trainability means first-time owners should be prepared for a learning curve. Invest in puppy socialization classes and commit to consistent, positive-reinforcement training.
This mix is not ideal for:
- Homes with very young children who may accidentally injure a small, long-backed dog
- Owners who work long hours away from home (separation anxiety risk)
- Households with pet rodents, birds, or rabbits (prey drive risk)
- Extremely active owners looking for a hiking or running companion (Pugshunds are not endurance athletes, especially if brachycephalic)
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the pug and weiner dog mix?
The Pugshund is a cross between a pug (a toy companion breed originating in China) and a dachshund (a German hound breed originally used for badger hunting). The "wiener dog" nickname comes from the dachshund's elongated, sausage-like body shape.
How big will a pug and weiner dog mix get?
Most Pugshunds weigh between 12 and 25 pounds (5–11 kg) and stand 8–13 inches (20–33 cm) at the shoulder. Size depends heavily on whether the dachshund parent was a miniature or standard, as well as which parent's structure the puppy inherits.
Is the pug and weiner dog mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No. Neither the pug nor the smooth-coated dachshund is hypoallergenic. Most Pugshunds are moderate to heavy shedders. If the dachshund parent is wirehaired, shedding may be somewhat reduced, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic. People with dog allergies should spend time with the specific dog before committing.
What health issues might a Pugshund inherit?
The primary concerns are intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) from the dachshund side and brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) from the pug side. Patellar luxation, obesity, eye conditions, and dental disease are also common. See the health table above for detailed symptoms and prevention strategies, and consult your veterinarian for breed-appropriate screening.
How much does a pug and weiner dog mix cost?
From a reputable breeder, expect to pay $800–$2,000. Rescue adoption fees typically range from $50–$400. First-year care costs add $1,500–$3,200 on top of the purchase price.
Are Pugshunds good with other dogs?
Generally yes, especially with early socialization. Pugs tend to be dog-friendly, while dachshunds can be more selective. Expose your Pugshund puppy to a variety of friendly, vaccinated dogs between 8 and 16 weeks of age to build confidence and good social skills.
What is the lifespan of a pug and weiner dog mix?
With proper care, weight management, and preventive veterinary visits, a Pugshund can live 12–15 years. Some live longer — both parent breeds are known for longevity. The main threats to lifespan are obesity-related complications, untreated IVDD, and respiratory emergencies in brachycephalic individuals.
If your Pugshund shows signs of IVDD (sudden back pain, dragging legs, inability to walk) or a respiratory crisis (blue gums, collapse, severe breathing difficulty), contact your nearest emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies)
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
