The Puggle is a dog that is a cross between Pug and Beagle parents. Thanks to a major U.S. media frenzy in late 2005, the Puggle is currently one of the most popular breeds of “designer dogs” in the United States. The frenzy was fueled by the dogs’ appearances on popular morning TV shows, a front page article in the New York Post, and celebrity owners such as James Gandofini and Jake Gyllenhaal.

Puggles generally weigh 20-25 pounds and measure 13-15 inches at the shoulder. Most Puggles are fawn in color with black wrinkled masks (like Pugs), but some are multi-colored or even completely black. Puggles usually have the longer body and muzzle of the Beagle, as well as floppy ears.

While Pugs are prone to eye, joint and skin problems (due to the wrinkles), Puggles enjoy relative freedom from these issues as a result of the Beagle parentage. Puggles are also more tolerant of the heat than Pugs are due to their longer nasal cavity. however, they are still prone to cherry eye, which is a common eye infection among Beagles.

Puggle owners praise the personality of the breed as its most valuable pet trait. They are playful animals and clown-like in disposition. They tend to have short bursts of energy, then quickly tire. As soon as they take a short nap, then want to play again. These playful tendencies can make them slow to train, and may also manifest in hyperactivity (a trait common to both Beagles and Pugs).

Puggles do not generally snore or make snorting noises as do Pugs. However, some do inherit the nasal houndlike bay of the Beagle. That being said, many Puggles barely vocalize at all.

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The spunky Yorkshire Terrier can be a devoted and affectionate family pet. However, this breed is nicknamed the “Yappy Yorkie” for good reason. The Yorkie thinks that it is a big, powerful dog that needs to protect its family from any hint of danger and will bark at just about anything.

The Yorkshire Terriers I have known are all very loving with family members, but they are so small that they can be accidentally injured by children who love them too vigorously. This breed is intelligent, but is hard to housebreak, especially if you expect your dog to go outside in bad weather and get his little feet wet.

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Standard Poodles may look a bit silly when they are groomed for show, but these dogs are very intelligent and good hearted. If you want a dog that can compete in obedience trials, this breed is ideal. However, be prepared to put in a lot of grooming time! This breed is fairly large and usually weighs 45-65 pounds. Despite their large size, these poodles do not need a ton of exercise. However, they do enjoy running and playing.

If you decide to buy a Standard Poodle, you may want to consider the fact that many breeders and owners have noticed that white or cream dogs are more high strung than other colors. Also, there are several common health problems with this breed, including hip dysplasia.

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