Pug and a Yorkie Mix (Pugshire): Complete Breed Guide
Everything about the pug and a yorkie mix: size, temperament, coat types, health risks, grooming needs, cost.
If you've been researching the pug and a yorkie mix — sometimes called a Pugshire or Pug-Yorkie — you've likely noticed how wildly different these two parent breeds are. One is a brachycephalic companion with a smooth coat and a clownish personality. The other is a tiny, long-haired terrier with a bold streak and a silky single coat. Mixing them produces a dog that can look and act very differently from litter to litter, and even puppies within the same litter can vary dramatically.
This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect — and what you can't predict — when bringing home a pug and Yorkshire Terrier cross. We'll cover generations, size ranges, coat inheritance, real health risks from both parent breeds, and the actual costs involved in 2026.
What Two Breeds Make Up This Mix?
The pug and a yorkie mix is a first-generation or multigenerational cross between a Pug (a toy breed originating in China, recognized by the AKC since 1885) and a Yorkshire Terrier (a toy terrier breed developed in England in the 19th century, AKC-recognized since 1885). Both breeds sit in the AKC Toy Group, but they come from entirely different working histories — the Pug as a royal companion and the Yorkie as a ratter turned lap dog.
| Trait | Pug | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Weight Standard | 14–18 lb (6.4–8.2 kg) | Up to 7 lb (3.2 kg) |
| Height | 10–13 in (25–33 cm) | 7–8 in (18–20 cm) |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth double coat | Long, silky single coat |
| Shedding Level | Moderate to heavy | Minimal (hair, not fur) |
| Muzzle Shape | Brachycephalic (flat-faced) | Mesocephalic (normal-length muzzle) |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate | Moderate to high |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years | 11–15 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate, clownish, people-oriented | Bold, alert, sometimes stubborn |
| Common Health Issues | BOAS, eye problems, obesity, hip dysplasia | Patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, dental disease |
The contrast here is important: these breeds share almost no physical traits, which means their offspring inherit a highly variable combination of characteristics. That variability is the defining feature of any pug and yorkie mix.
Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, and Multigen
Generation terminology matters when evaluating any designer mix. Here's what you'll encounter:
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Pug × one purebred Yorkshire Terrier. Maximum genetic diversity but highest trait unpredictability. Puppies in the same F1 litter can look completely different from each other.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Pug-Yorkie mix bred back to one of the parent breeds (usually the Pug or the Yorkie). This shifts trait probability toward the backcross parent — for example, an F1B backcrossed to a Yorkie will more likely have longer, silkier hair.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Pug-Yorkie mixes bred together. Trait variation widens again due to genetic recombination. Some puppies may strongly resemble one grandparent breed.
- Multigen (F3+): Third generation or beyond. In theory, traits stabilize somewhat, but since no major kennel club recognizes this cross as a standardized breed, consistency is never guaranteed.
Practical tip: Ask any breeder which generation they're selling. An F1 puppy is essentially a genetic lottery. If coat type or size predictability matters to you, an F1B backcrossed to the Yorkie parent gives you better odds of a low-shedding coat — but never a guarantee.
How Big Will a Pug and Yorkie Mix Get?
Because both parent breeds are in the toy category, the size range for a pug and a yorkie mix stays relatively compact — but there's still meaningful variation. Pugs are substantially heavier than Yorkies, so the mix typically lands somewhere between the two.
| Measurement | Low End | High End | Most Common Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7 lb (3.2 kg) | 18 lb (8.2 kg) | 10–14 lb (4.5–6.4 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 7 in (18 cm) | 13 in (33 cm) | 9–11 in (23–28 cm) |
What influences where your puppy lands? The sex of the puppy, which parent was larger, generation (F1B backcrossed to Yorkie tends smaller), and individual genetics. If you're adopting an adult rescue, the dog's current size is the size — but with puppies, expect uncertainty until around 10–12 months of age when growth plates close.
A useful rule: if the breeder can tell you the exact weights of both parents, the puppy's adult weight typically falls within ±15% of the average of the two parents. So a 16-lb Pug dam and a 6-lb Yorkie sire would produce puppies averaging roughly 11 lb (5 kg), give or take.
Coat Types, Shedding, and the Hypoallergenic Question
This is where the pug and yorkie mix gets genuinely unpredictable. The two parent breeds carry very different coat genetics:
- Pug coat: Short, smooth double coat. Moderate to heavy shedding year-round, with seasonal blowouts. Fawn or black coloring.
- Yorkie coat: Long, fine, silky single coat (hair rather than fur). Minimal shedding. Blue and tan coloring that develops over the first 1–3 years.
What Your Mix Might Inherit
| Coat Outcome | Likelihood (F1) | Shedding | Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short, smooth (Pug-dominant) | ~35–40% | Moderate to heavy | Resembles a slightly longer-coated Pug; fawn, black, or mixed coloring |
| Medium-length, wiry or wavy (blended) | ~30–35% | Light to moderate | Soft waves, 1–3 inches long; may have feathering on ears and legs |
| Long, silky (Yorkie-dominant) | ~25–30% | Minimal | Resembles a Yorkie with a slightly stockier build; may have Pug facial markings |
Is the Pug and Yorkie Mix Hypoallergenic?
No — not reliably. Only puppies that inherit the Yorkie's single-coat, hair-type genetics will be low-shedding and potentially tolerable for mild allergy sufferers. Even then, no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Allergens come from dander, saliva, and urine, not just shed fur. If allergies are a primary concern, an F1B backcross to a Yorkie gives the best odds, but you should spend time with the specific puppy before committing. The AKC notes that individual allergic responses vary too much to guarantee any breed or mix is safe.
Temperament: What Personality to Expect
The temperament of a pug and a yorkie mix depends on which parent's behavioral tendencies dominate — and socialization plays a huge role in the outcome.
Best-Case Scenario
You get the Pug's affectionate, people-pleasing nature combined with the Yorkie's alertness and playful spark. The result is a small, devoted companion who enjoys being near you, greets visitors with curiosity rather than fear, and has enough energy for short walks and play sessions without being hyperactive. These dogs tend to bond closely with their families and adapt well to apartment living.
Challenging Scenario
You get the Yorkie's territorial streak and tendency to bark at everything, paired with the Pug's stubbornness during training. Some mixes inherit a strong prey drive from the terrier side, making them chase cats or small dogs. Others may develop separation anxiety if the Pug's velcro-dog tendencies combine with the Yorkie's attachment sensitivity. Resource guarding can appear in any mix, particularly if the dog wasn't properly socialized between 8–16 weeks of age.
Key Temperament Variables
- Barking: Yorkies are vocal; Pugs are moderate barkers. Expect moderate-to-high barking, especially at doorbells and passersby. Early training with positive reinforcement and desensitization to triggers is essential.
- Trainability: Pugs are food-motivated but easily distracted. Yorkies are intelligent but independent. Training sessions should be short (5–10 minutes), reward-based, and consistent. Never use aversive methods like shock collars or alpha rolls — these damage trust and worsen fear-based behaviors in small breeds.
- Kid compatibility: Both parent breeds can do well with gentle, supervised children over age 6–7. The small size of this mix (7–18 lb) makes them fragile around toddlers who may squeeze or drop them. Always supervise interactions.
- Other pets: Early socialization with other dogs is important. The Yorkie's terrier instincts may cause chasing behavior with cats unless introduced young.
Health Considerations: The Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality
Let's address a common misconception directly: hybrid vigor does not eliminate health problems in designer mixes. The concept of heterosis (hybrid vigor) is real in population genetics, but it primarily applies when crossing two genetically distant, well-managed populations with low inbreeding coefficients. In practice, many designer breed puppies come from parent dogs that haven't been health-tested, which means inherited conditions from both breeds can absolutely appear in the offspring.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, mixed-breed dogs can inherit any genetic condition carried by either parent breed. A responsible breeder should provide OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHIP certifications for both parents.
Health Conditions Inherited From the Pug Side
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): If your mix inherits the Pug's shortened muzzle, they may develop stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), elongated soft palate, or laryngeal collapse. Symptoms include snoring, exercise intolerance, noisy breathing, and heat sensitivity. Surgical correction costs $1,500–$4,000+ depending on severity.
- Ocular conditions: Pugs are prone to corneal ulcers, dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), entropion, and proptosis (eye displacement due to shallow orbits). A pug-faced mix will need regular eye checks.
- Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE): A rare but fatal inflammatory brain disease specific to Pugs. The genetic marker can be tested for in parent dogs.
- Obesity predisposition: Pugs have an insatiable appetite and low exercise drive. Without strict portion control, mixes inheriting this tendency gain weight rapidly, worsening joint and respiratory issues.
Health Conditions Inherited From the Yorkie Side
- Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation, common in toy breeds. Grades I–IV; surgical repair costs $1,500–$3,500 per knee. Ask the breeder for OFA patella evaluations on both parents.
- Tracheal collapse: Progressive weakening of tracheal cartilage rings, causing a honking cough. More common in dogs under 10 lb. Using a harness instead of a collar reduces strain. Medical management costs $50–$200/month; surgical options range from $3,000–$7,000.
- Dental disease: Both parent breeds have crowded teeth in small jaws, but Yorkies are particularly prone to early periodontal disease. Daily tooth brushing and professional cleanings ($400–$800 per session under anesthesia) starting at age 2–3 are essential.
- Portosystemic shunt (PSS): A congenital liver vascular anomaly more common in Yorkies. Symptoms include stunted growth, disorientation, and seizures. Surgical correction costs $3,000–$8,000.
- Hypoglycemia: Toy breed puppies under 4 months are at risk of dangerous blood sugar drops. Feed small, frequent meals and keep Nutri-Cal gel on hand.
When to call your veterinarian immediately: Difficulty breathing or blue-tinged gums (possible BOAS crisis), honking cough that worsens with excitement, sudden collapse or seizure, inability to bear weight on a hind leg, or refusal to eat for more than 12 hours in a puppy under 6 months.
Recommended health screening for parent dogs: OFA patella evaluation, OFA cardiac exam, CERF (Canine Eye Registry Foundation) eye exam, and DNA panel for PDE marker. Ask for documentation — not just verbal assurances.
Grooming Needs by Coat Type
Your grooming routine depends entirely on which coat your pug and a yorkie mix inherits. Here's a practical breakdown:
| Task | Short/Smooth Coat (Pug-Type) | Medium/Wavy Coat (Blended) | Long/Silky Coat (Yorkie-Type) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing Frequency | 2–3 times/week (rubber curry brush) | 3–4 times/week (slicker brush + comb) | Daily (pin brush + metal comb) |
| Bathing | Every 4–6 weeks | Every 3–4 weeks | Every 2–3 weeks |
| Professional Grooming | Not typically needed | Every 8–10 weeks ($50–$75) | Every 4–6 weeks ($60–$90) |
| Facial Fold Cleaning | Daily if wrinkles inherited | As needed if moderate wrinkles | Rarely needed |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Every 2–3 weeks | Every 2–3 weeks |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly (floppy ears trap moisture) | Weekly | Weekly (hair in ear canal may need plucking) |
| Dental Care | Daily brushing recommended | Daily brushing recommended | Daily brushing recommended |
Important wrinkle care note: If your mix inherits facial folds from the Pug parent, those folds must be cleaned daily with a damp cloth or veterinary wipe (such as Vetericyn Plus Wipes, ~$12 for 50 count) and dried thoroughly. Moisture trapped in folds causes yeast and bacterial infections (intertrigo), which are painful and expensive to treat.
Cost: Purchase Price, Annual Care, and Where to Find One
Puppy Purchase Price
| Source | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reputable Breeder (health-tested parents) | $800–$2,000 | Should provide OFA certs, health guarantee, take-back clause, and early socialization records |
| Casual/Backyard Breeder | $400–$800 | Often no health testing; higher risk of inherited conditions and behavioral issues |
| Puppy Mill / Online Scam | $200–$600 | Avoid entirely — shipped puppies with no parent visibility, frequent health and temperament problems |
| Breed Rescue or Shelter | $100–$400 | Adoption fee typically includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchip; availability varies widely |
First-Year Estimated Costs
- Veterinary care (initial): $400–$700 (exam, DHPP/rabies vaccines, fecal test, heartworm test, spay/neuter if not included)
- Preventive medications: $200–$400/year (heartworm + flea/tick — e.g., Simparica Trio ~$200/year for small dogs)
- Food: $180–$350/year (small-breed formula, approximately ½ to ¾ cup/day; look for AAFCO complete-and-balanced statement)
- Grooming: $0–$720/year (depends on coat type — short coat may need no professional grooming; long coat requires regular appointments)
- Supplies: $200–$400 (harness, crate, bed, toys, toothbrush, bowls, leash)
- Pet insurance: $300–$600/year (recommended given the dual-breed health risk profile; companies like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, or Lemonade offer toy-breed plans)
Total first-year estimate: $1,700–$5,170, depending on purchase source, coat type, and your location.
Rescue Availability
Designer mixes do appear in shelters and breed-specific rescues, though less predictably than purebreds. Check Petfinder.com and filter by Pug or Yorkshire Terrier mixes in your area. Pug-specific rescues (such as Pug Rescue Network) and Yorkie-specific rescues (like Yorkshire Terrier Club of America rescue referrals) sometimes take in crosses as well.
Who This Mix Suits Best
The pug and a yorkie mix is not a one-size-fits-all dog. Here's a realistic assessment of who thrives with this cross:
Ideal Owner Profile
- Living situation: Apartment or condo dwellers, or homeowners with small yards. This mix doesn't need a large space — 20–30 minutes of daily exercise (two short walks plus indoor play) is sufficient.
- Experience level: Suitable for first-time owners who are willing to commit to consistent positive-reinforcement training and early socialization. The small size makes management easier, but the potential for barking and stubbornness requires patience.
- Time at home: Best for people who work from home or have schedules allowing midday check-ins. Both parent breeds are companion-oriented and prone to separation anxiety if left alone for 8+ hours daily.
- Family composition: Adults, seniors, or families with older children (8+). Too fragile for toddlers. Can coexist with other dogs if socialized early; cat compatibility depends on terrier prey drive inheritance.
- Allergy considerations: Only suitable for allergy sufferers if the individual dog is confirmed to have a Yorkie-type single coat. Spend at least 2–3 hours with the specific dog before committing.
Who Should Consider a Different Breed
- Families with very young children (under 5) who may accidentally injure a small dog
- Owners who want a highly predictable temperament or appearance — consider a well-established purebred instead
- People who are away from home 10+ hours daily without a dog walker or daycare arrangement
- Those seeking an athletic hiking or running companion — the potential for BOAS makes vigorous exercise risky for pug-faced mixes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pug and yorkie mix called?
The most common unofficial name is Pugshire. You may also see "Pug-Yorkie" or "Yorkie Pug." None of these names are recognized by the AKC, as this is a designer cross, not a standardized breed.
How long does a pug and yorkie mix live?
Expect a lifespan of 12–15 years, consistent with both parent breeds. Lifespan can be shortened by obesity, untreated BOAS, or severe dental disease. Maintaining a healthy body condition score (BCS of 4–5 out of 9) and keeping up with dental care are the two biggest longevity factors you control.
Are pug and yorkie mixes easy to potty train?
Small breeds, including this mix, are notoriously slower to house-train than larger dogs. Their small bladders mean more frequent outings (every 1–2 hours for puppies under 4 months). Crate training, consistent schedule, and high-value treats for outdoor elimination work best. Expect 3–6 months for reliable house training — some individuals take up to a year. Indoor grass pads or puppy pads can serve as a bridge during cold weather or apartment living.
Can this mix be left alone during the day?
Adults (1+ year) can typically handle 4–6 hours alone if properly exercised beforehand and provided with enrichment (puzzle toys, frozen Kongs). Puppies under 6 months should not be left alone for more than 2–3 hours. If you work full-time outside the home, budget for a midday dog walker ($15–$25 per visit) or doggy daycare ($25–$45/day).
Do pug and yorkie mixes bark a lot?
Most will bark at least moderately. Yorkies were bred to alert, and Pugs vocalize when excited or bored. Expect barking at doorbells, strangers, and other dogs passing the window. Counter-conditioning (pairing the doorbell sound with treats) and teaching a "quiet" cue using positive reinforcement can reduce nuisance barking significantly. Avoid yelling, which dogs interpret as you joining in.
Should I get pet insurance for this mix?
Strongly recommended. With health risks from two different breeds, you're looking at potential costs of $1,500–$7,000+ for a single surgical intervention (BOAS correction, patellar surgery, or tracheal repair). A comprehensive pet insurance policy at $30–$50/month can offset these costs substantially. Enroll before any conditions are diagnosed — pre-existing conditions are excluded by all major insurers.
What should I feed a pug and yorkie mix?
A small-breed formula kibble or wet food that meets FDA and AAFCO standards for your dog's life stage (puppy, adult, or senior). For a 10–14 lb adult, expect to feed approximately ⅓ to ¾ cup of dry food daily, split into two meals. Avoid free-feeding — the Pug's appetite drive makes obesity a real risk. Monitor body condition score monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.
A final note: The pug and a yorkie mix can be a wonderful companion for the right household — but the "right household" is one that understands and accepts the variability inherent in designer crosses. If predictability in health, size, coat, and temperament is your top priority, consider adopting an adult pug-yorkie mix from a rescue (where you can evaluate the actual dog) or choosing a well-tested purebred from a responsible breeder. Either way, always consult your veterinarian to develop a health monitoring plan tailored to your specific dog's inherited traits.
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
