Jug Dog Breed

Below are details and specs for the Jug dog breed.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.