Pug Yorkie Mix: Complete Guide to the Pugshire Designer Dog

The Pug Yorkie mix — sometimes called the Pugshire — pairs the clownish charm of the Pug with the bold, terrier-spirited Yorkshire Terrier. This designer cross produces a small companion dog typically weighing 7 to 18 pounds, though individual pups can fall outside that range depending on which parent they favor. If you're researching this mix before adopting or buying, here's what you actually need to know beyond the marketing brochures.

Parent Breed Breakdown: Pug vs. Yorkshire Terrier

Understanding a mixed-breed dog starts with understanding its parents. The Pug and Yorkshire Terrier come from very different breed groups with distinct temperaments, body structures, and health profiles. Here's how they compare side by side:

Parent Breed Comparison

Trait	Pug (AKC Toy Group)	Yorkshire Terrier (AKC Toy Group)
Weight	14–18 lb (6.4–8.2 kg)	4–7 lb (1.8–3.2 kg)
Height	10–13 in (25–33 cm)	7–8 in (18–20 cm)
Coat	Short, smooth, double coat	Long, fine, silky single coat
Shedding	Moderate to heavy (surprisingly high for short hair)	Low — hair-like coat, minimal shedding
Muzzle Shape	Brachycephalic (flat-faced)	Mesocephalic (normal proportion)
Energy Level	Low to moderate — short bursts then naps	Moderate — alert, active, terrier-driven
Barking	Moderate — grunts, snores, occasional barks	High — vocal watchdog tendencies
Lifespan	13–15 years	11–15 years
Trainability	Moderate — food-motivated but stubborn	Moderate — intelligent but independent

Both breeds belong to the AKC Toy Group, which means the Pug Yorkie mix will always be a small dog. However, the Pug is substantially heavier and stockier than the Yorkie, and that size difference creates variability in the offspring.

Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, and Multigen Pug Yorkie Mixes

Most Pug Yorkie mixes you'll encounter are F1. This is important because F1 puppies from the same litter can inherit wildly different traits — one pup might look nearly like a Pug with a slightly longer coat, while a littermate might resemble a stockier Yorkie with a shorter muzzle. If predictability matters to you, ask the breeder which generation they're producing and request photos of previous litters as adults.

Size Range: How Big Will a Pug Yorkie Mix Get?

The Pug's heavier build and the Yorkie's tiny frame create a meaningful size spread. Here's what to expect:

Pug Yorkie Mix Size Range (Adult Estimates)

Category	Weight	Height at Shoulder	Build
Yorkie-dominant	7–10 lb (3.2–4.5 kg)	7–9 in (18–23 cm)	Lean, fine-boned
Balanced mix	10–14 lb (4.5–6.4 kg)	9–11 in (23–28 cm)	Compact, moderate bone
Pug-dominant	14–18 lb (6.4–8.2 kg)	10–13 in (25–33 cm)	Stocky, broad-chested

A puppy's paw size at 8 weeks offers a rough indicator — larger, wider paws suggest a Pug-leaning build, while tiny, delicate paws hint at Yorkie dominance. However, growth plates in small breeds don't fully close until 10–12 months, so the final adult size may surprise you. Most Pugshires land in the 10–14 lb range, but outliers exist in both directions.

Coat Types and Shedding: Is the Pug Yorkie Mix Hypoallergenic?

Short answer: No. The Pug Yorkie mix is not reliably hypoallergenic or low-shedding.

Here's why. The Yorkie carries genes for a long, single-layer, hair-like coat that sheds minimally — this is the coat type often marketed as "hypoallergenic." The Pug carries genes for a short, double-layer coat that sheds heavily year-round with seasonal spikes. When you cross them, the puppies can inherit:

• Short, dense coat (Pug-inherited): Smooth to the touch, moderate to heavy shedding. Requires weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush. This is the most common coat type in F1 litters.
• Medium-length, wavy coat (blended): Softer texture, moderate shedding. Needs brushing 2–3 times weekly to prevent matting behind the ears and around the neck.
• Long, silky coat (Yorkie-inherited): Fine, flowing hair that grows continuously. Low shedding but high maintenance — daily brushing and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Least common in F1 crosses.

Because the Pug's double coat genes tend to be dominant, most F1 Pugshires shed at least moderately. If someone in your household has dog allergies, this mix is a risky choice. Spend time with the specific puppy before committing, and understand that allergic reactions are triggered by dander and saliva proteins, not just hair length.

Temperament: What Personality Traits Should You Expect?

The Pug brings an easygoing, people-oriented, sometimes lazy disposition. The Yorkie brings terrier fire — alertness, boldness, vocal watchdog behavior, and a tendency to bond intensely with one person. The mix can produce dogs anywhere on this spectrum, and even littermates can differ significantly.

Best-Case Temperament Scenarios

• Social, affectionate companion who enjoys laps and cuddling (Pug influence) but has enough energy and alertness to enjoy short walks and play sessions (Yorkie influence)
• Good with children when properly socialized — sturdy enough to handle gentle handling (if Pug-dominant in build)
• Adaptable to apartment living with moderate daily activity
• Entertaining personality — Pugs are known as the "clowns" of the dog world, and Yorkies are spirited and amusing

Challenging Temperament Scenarios

• Excessive barking inherited from the Yorkie side — problematic in apartments with thin walls
• Stubbornness from both breeds combining into a dog that's intelligent but resistant to training commands
• Separation anxiety — both breeds tend to bond closely with their people and can struggle when left alone for long periods
• Small-dog reactivity — Yorkie terrier instincts can produce a dog that's feisty with other dogs, especially larger ones
• Resource guarding tendencies, which both breeds can display without proper early training

Early socialization between 8 and 16 weeks is critical. Expose your Pugshire puppy to varied people, surfaces, sounds, and other vaccinated dogs during this window. Use positive reinforcement methods — treat rewards, clicker training, and play motivation. Both breeds respond poorly to harsh corrections; the Pug shuts down and the Yorkie becomes defensive.

Health Considerations: Inherited Risks From Both Parent Breeds

Let's address the "hybrid vigor" myth directly. While crossbreeding can reduce the risk of conditions caused by recessive genes common within a single breed's gene pool, it does not eliminate health risks. A Pug Yorkie mix can inherit any condition that affects either parent breed. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, mixed-breed dogs still develop hereditary conditions at meaningful rates, especially when one or both parent breeds carry significant genetic health burdens.

Conditions Inherited From the Pug Side

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): If the puppy inherits a shortened muzzle, they may develop narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), an elongated soft palate, or a hypoplastic trachea. Symptoms include noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity, and sleep apnea. Surgical correction costs $1,500–$4,000 depending on severity and procedure scope.
• Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE): A fatal inflammatory brain disease specific to Pugs, caused by an autoimmune response. While rare in mixes, the genetic predisposition can carry over. Onset typically occurs between 6 months and 7 years.
• Patellar Luxation: Kneecap slipping out of position, graded I–IV. Common in small breeds. Grade I–II may be managed conservatively; Grade III–IV typically requires surgical correction ($1,500–$3,000 per knee).
• Eye Conditions: Pugs are prone to corneal ulcers, dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), and entropion (eyelid rolling inward). Their prominent eyes are vulnerable to injury.

Conditions Inherited From the Yorkie Side

• Tracheal Collapse: Weakening of the tracheal cartilage rings, causing a honking cough. Affects up to 20% of small breeds. Managed with weight control, harness use (never neck collars), and sometimes surgery in severe cases.
• Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): An abnormal blood vessel bypassing the liver. Symptoms include stunted growth, disorientation after meals, and seizures. Surgical correction costs $3,000–$6,000; medical management is an alternative for some cases.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: Degeneration of the femoral head (hip joint) in young small-breed dogs, typically appearing between 4–12 months. Requires surgical removal of the affected femoral head ($1,500–$3,000).
• Dental Disease: Yorkies are notoriously prone to early, severe periodontal disease. Small mouths crowd teeth, accelerating tartar buildup. Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia run $300–$800 and may be needed annually from age 3 onward.

Conditions Both Breeds Share

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar in puppies, especially those under 4 months. Toy-breed puppies need frequent small meals (every 3–4 hours) to prevent dangerous drops.
• Obesity: Pugs are notoriously food-motivated and prone to overeating. If your Pugshire inherits this drive, strict portion control is essential. Use a kitchen scale to measure food — even 10 extra calories per day leads to weight gain in a 12-lb dog.
• Allergies: Both breeds can develop environmental (atopic dermatitis) and food allergies. Symptoms include paw licking, ear infections, and itchy skin.

Grooming and Daily Care

Your Pugshire's grooming routine depends entirely on which coat type they inherit:

Grooming Schedule by Coat Type

Task	Short Coat (Pug-type)	Medium/Wavy Coat	Long Coat (Yorkie-type)
Brushing	1–2× per week	2–3× per week	Daily
Professional Grooming	Not typically needed	Every 8–10 weeks (optional)	Every 6–8 weeks ($50–$85/session)
Bathing	Every 4–6 weeks	Every 3–4 weeks	Every 2–3 weeks
Facial Wrinkle Care	Daily if wrinkles inherited — wipe with damp cloth, dry thoroughly	As needed	Rarely needed
Nail Trimming	Every 2–3 weeks	Every 2–3 weeks	Every 2–3 weeks
Teeth Brushing	Daily (both breeds prone to dental disease)	Daily	Daily

Regardless of coat type, start handling your puppy's paws, ears, and mouth from day one. Small dogs that aren't accustomed to grooming handling often develop resistance that makes veterinary exams and professional grooming stressful for everyone. Pair each handling session with high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small bits of chicken) to build positive associations.

Exercise needs: Plan for 30–45 minutes of daily activity, split into two or three sessions. A morning walk of 15–20 minutes, an afternoon play session, and an evening stroll typically meet this breed mix's needs. If your dog inherits a brachycephalic muzzle, avoid exercise in temperatures above 80°F (27°C) and always provide immediate access to water and shade. Heatstroke in flat-faced dogs can develop in minutes.

Cost Breakdown: What You'll Actually Spend

Pug Yorkie Mix Cost Estimates (2025–2026)

Expense Category	Low End	Average	High End
Puppy purchase (breeder)	$400	$800–$1,200	$2,000+
Adoption fee (rescue/shelter)	$150	$250–$400	$500
First-year veterinary care (vaccines, spay/neuter, wellness)	$500	$800–$1,200	$1,800
Annual ongoing veterinary care	$400	$600–$900	$1,500+
Food (quality small-breed kibble or wet food)	$240/year	$360–$480/year	$600/year
Grooming (if long coat)	$0 (home grooming)	$300–$500/year	$700+/year
Pet insurance (monthly premium)	$25/month	$35–$50/month	$70/month

Breeder availability: Pugshires are not among the most popular designer crosses (unlike Goldendoodles or Cavapoos), which means you won't find them from established, multi-generation breeding programs as easily. Search for breeders who health-test both parent dogs — specifically, OFA patella evaluations, eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist, and tracheal assessment. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals database lets you verify whether a dog's health clearances are on file.

Rescue availability: Small-breed mixes frequently appear in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Check Pug rescue organizations and Yorkie rescue groups — both occasionally take in mixed-breed dogs from surrendered litters or owner surrenders. Sites like Petfinder let you search by breed mix and location. Adopting an adult Pugshire gives you the advantage of already knowing the dog's size, coat type, and temperament.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Get a Pug Yorkie Mix?

This Mix Suits You If:

• You live in an apartment or small home and want a compact companion dog
• You're home most of the day — these dogs do poorly with 8+ hours of daily solitude
• You have older children (8+) who understand how to handle small dogs gently
• You want an entertaining, affectionate dog with moderate exercise needs
• You're prepared for potential breathing-related health expenses if the dog inherits a shortened muzzle
• You're a first-time dog owner willing to invest in puppy socialization classes

Think Twice If:

• You have toddlers — a Yorkie-dominant Pugshire may be too fragile for rough handling, and even Pug-dominant builds can be injured by small children who don't understand gentle interaction
• You work long hours away from home — separation anxiety is a genuine risk with this cross
• You need a quiet dog — Yorkie-influenced Pugshires can be frequent barkers, which creates problems in shared-wall housing
• You want a guaranteed hypoallergenic dog — this mix is not reliably low-shedding
• You're unprepared for potential BOAS-related veterinary costs of $1,500–$4,000+ in the dog's lifetime
• You want a highly predictable adult dog in terms of size, coat, and temperament — the genetic spread between the parent breeds is too wide for reliable predictions

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up the Pug Yorkie mix?

The Pug Yorkie mix is a cross between a purebred Pug and a purebred Yorkshire Terrier. Both are AKC-recognized Toy Group breeds, though the Pug is significantly heavier and stockier than the Yorkie. Some breeders also produce F1B crosses by breeding an F1 Pugshire back to one of the parent breeds.

How big will a Pug Yorkie mix get?

Adult Pugshires typically weigh 7–18 lb (3.2–8.2 kg) and stand 7–13 in (18–33 cm) at the shoulder. Most fall in the 10–14 lb range. The final size depends on which parent the puppy favors. Ask the breeder for the parents' exact weights — the puppy's adult weight usually falls somewhere between the two.

What will the temperament be like?

Expect a blend of the Pug's easygoing affection and the Yorkie's alert terrier spirit. Most Pugshires are social, people-oriented, and moderately energetic. However, individual variation is significant — some lean heavily toward the Pug's laid-back nature while others inherit the Yorkie's vocal, bold watchdog tendencies. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training shape the outcome more than genetics alone.

Is the Pug Yorkie mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?

No. While the Yorkie parent has a low-shedding coat, the Pug parent sheds moderately to heavily. Most F1 Pugshires inherit some degree of shedding from the Pug side. No dog is truly hypoallergenic — allergies are triggered by dander and saliva proteins, not just hair. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific puppy before committing.

What health issues might a Pug Yorkie mix inherit?

Key concerns include Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) from the Pug side, tracheal collapse and portosystemic shunt from the Yorkie side, and patellar luxation, dental disease, and obesity risk from both. Request health clearances for both parent dogs before purchasing a puppy. Consult your veterinarian for a preventive care plan tailored to your dog's specific inherited traits.

How much does a Pug Yorkie mix cost?

Breeder puppies typically cost $800–$1,200, though prices range from $400 to over $2,000 depending on the breeder's reputation and location. Adoption fees from rescues range from $150–$500. Budget an additional $800–$1,200 for first-year veterinary care, and $600–$900 annually for ongoing care. Pet insurance is strongly recommended given the potential for airway and orthopedic conditions.

Are Pug Yorkie mixes good with other pets?

With proper socialization, most Pugshires coexist well with other dogs and cats. However, the Yorkie's terrier heritage can produce a high prey drive toward small animals like hamsters, birds, or rabbits. Introduce new pets gradually and supervise initial interactions. Never leave a Pugshire unsupervised with pocket pets regardless of how well they seem to get along.