Jug Dog! The name may sound funny, but he is a small designer dog with a huge personality. Their friendly and loyal nature coupled with a relatively long lifespan is what makes the Jack Russell Pug Mix increasingly popular by the day. So is the Pug and Jack Russell Mix the right canine companion for you and your family?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Jug Dog including their temperament, common health issues, physical characteristics, grooming and exercise needs, dietary requirements, and more.
Many small-sized hybrid dog breeds share some of the same health problems so if you have a Jack Russell Chihuahua Mix, you may already know what some of them are. Before we go into that, let’s first begin with a breed overview of the Jug Dog.
Table of Contents
Jug Dog: Breed overview
| Other Names this Mixed dog breed goes by | Jugg dog, Jug, Pug Russell, Jack Pug, Terrier Pug, Russell Pug, Pug and Jack Russell Mix, Jack Russell Terrier Pug Mix, Retromop Pug |
| Purity | Hybrid |
| Purpose | Companion dog |
| AKC Recognition | No |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 14 – 20 pounds |
| Height | 11 – 15 inches |
| Coat Colors | Fawn, Black, White, Tan |
| Child Friendliness | High |
| Canine Friendliness | Moderate |
| Training Difficulty | Easy |
| Grooming Upkeep | Easy |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate |
| Health | Moderate |
| Lifespan | 12 – 15 years |
| Puppy Cost | $600 – $1,000 |
What is a Jug Dog?
If you are planning on adopting a Jack Russell Mix, you might come across a breed that is referred to as the âJug.â Whatâs a Jug Dog, you might wonder?
Well, a Jug Dog is simply a hybrid of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pug or the Jack Russell Terrier Pug Mix.
What is a Retro Pug?
A Retro Mops Pug is another name for Jug Dog or Jack Russell Pug Mix. Retro Pug is a cross between a purebred Pug and Jack Russell Terrier. This designer dog has a long snout that takes after his Jack Russell Terrier genes, a short stocky build, a round head, and a few folds on the face.
A Retro Mop Pug is a small dog breed that can grow up to 15 inches tall and has a life expectancy of 16 years. Small may his size be, a Retromop has a big character and mild temperament that makes him a good canine companion for any family.
Retromop Pugs are also sportier and healthier than purebred Pugs.
Jack Russell Pug Mix: Parent breeds
Jack Russell and Pug Mix is a designer dog that combines the physical attributes and temperament of two popular purebred dogs.
The Jack Russell Pug Mix is a mixture of playfulness and affection in one small bundle. To know more about the mix, it is useful to learn about the individual traits of the parent breeds.
Jack Russell Terrier history
The Jack Russell Terrier was developed in England during the mid-19th century by Reverend John âJackâ Russell to create a fox-hunting dog with a predominantly white coat.
This is to distinguish the Jack Russell from its prey and prevent hunters from accidentally shooting the dog through confusion. The dog breeds used to create the Jack Russell are Beagles and Bull Terriers.
RELATED: Jack Russell Lab Mix (Jackador Complete Guide)
Pug history
Pugs originated in China and have been popular in that region since 400 B.C. Both the royalty and the monks consider them a good luck charm since their signature wrinkly forehead resembles the Chinese character for âprinceâ.
The Pugs were brought to Europe by Portuguese traders in the 16th century and their worldwide popularity has increased since then.
Don’t miss: English Bulldog Pug Mix (Bull Pug Complete Guide)
Retro Pug vs Pug
The main difference between Retro Pug and Pug is that Retro Pug is a mixed breed while Pug is a pure breed. Retro Pugs is a hybrid of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pug so at least one of the parents is a Pug. A purebred Pug has two Pug parents.
If we do a Retro Pug comparison, we can see that a Retro Pug or Retromop Pug has a longer snout compared to a natural Pug. The Retro Pug (also known as Retro Mops Pug) also has a stockier built than a Pug.
Jack Russell Pug Mix physical appearance
The Jack Russell and Pug Mix would have varying physical features depending on the dominance of one parentâs genes.
If the Retro Pug looks more like the Jack Russell Terrier parent, then, one of the more pronounced physical features you’ll notice right away is that the Jack Russell Pug Mix will look like a Pug without flat face or a long snout Pug.
So any time you see a long nose Pug, Pug with long snout, or a Pug without squished face, then it’s very likely that you’re looking at a mixed breed Pug. In this situation, you’d be looking at a Retro Pug since his parents are the Pug and the Jack Russell Terrier.
As we can see, a Retro Pug is very similar to an old fashioned Retro Pug and it is a mixed breed Pug with longer nose.
Below is what you can expect to see if you come across a Retro Pug breed:
Body: All of them would have a small body structure with a less stocky appearance than the Pug.
Tail: Tends to curl toward the body.
Head: The head is rounded.
Snout: Either a short or medium snout.
Eyes: Round which may or may not protrude out.
Ears: Typically triangular and floppy.
Check out: Pomeranian Mix Jack Russell (Complete Guide)
Pug mix with Jack Russell size, height, and weight
Jack Russell terrier x Pug is a small-sized dog that stands an average of 12 to 15 inches at shoulder height.
An adult Jug Dog male is slightly taller and heavier than the female.
Below is an estimate of the height and weight of the Pug crossed with Jack Russell as they mature.
| Age | Weight (Male) | Height (Male) | Weight (Female) | Height (Female) |
| 3 months | 6 – 8 pounds | 6 – 9 inches | 5 – 7 pounds | 5 – 8 inches |
| 6 months | 8 – 14 pounds | 9 – 10 inches | 7 – 12 pounds | 8 – 9 inches |
| 9 months | 14 – 18 pounds | 10 – 12 inches | 12 – 16 pounds | 9 – 11 inches |
| 12 months | 18 – 20 pounds | 12 – 15 inches | 16 – 20 pounds | 11 – 14 inches |
Full grown Jug Dog
A Jug Dog full grown will reach its maximum height before they are 12 months old just like many small dogs.
Jack Russell Pug Mix full grown may have elongated legs and appears slim. A full grown Jack Russell Pug Mix should have a proportionate and athletic body and should not be too heavy or overly thin.
Jack Russell mixed with a Pug coat colors and types
Jug Pug has a short coat that is smooth and rough.
Jug breed can come in shades of white, tan, brown, fawn, and black. Pug cross with Jack Russell will usually have a primary color and secondary color markings around the head, legs, and body.
White Jug Dog
A white Pug Jug has a predominantly white color on its body. Some white Pug Russell Terrier Mix can develop light patches of yellow on their coat as they mature.
Black Jug Dog
A Black Retro Pug or Pug cross Jack Russell Black has a predominantly black coat with some having white markings on the neck. Jack Russell Pug Mix Black is not common since the Jack Russell Terrier comes mainly with a white coat.
If you do see a Black Retro Pug, the black coat color could come from the Pug parent since Pugs do come in black coat color. Although the fawn coat color is the most common coat color in Pugs, the gene responsible for the black coat is actually dominant.
So even though we don’t see Black Pugs as often as fawn Pugs, black is one of two basic coat colors that Pugs have.
Here is a picture of a black Pug:
Read also: Beagle Jack Russell Mix (Jackabee Complete Guide)
Jack Russell Pug Mix personality
Jack Russell Terrier Pug Mix personality combines the hunting instinct of Jack Russell and the loving nature of the Pug.
They are intelligent, friendly, energetic, and in some cases, quite vocal. Jack Russell Pug Mix temperament may be stubborn at times and may develop destructive behaviors around the house if left alone for too long.
Are Jugs good dogs?
Yes, Jugs are good dogs. The dog Jug breed is sociable, affectionate, and active. Because of the Jack Terrier personality, they exhibit alertness and love to get involved in the activities around them.
Are Jugs good family dogs?
Yes, Jugs are good family dogs. The Jack Russell Terrier and Pug Mix is great as family pets especially, for active households. Their playful and energetic nature means they can withstand playing with children for long hours.
Jugs dog can also get along with other pets, especially smaller ones, as long as they are exposed to them early.
Find out: Will the Boxer Pug Mix be the perfect canine companion for you and your family? Check out Pug Boxer Mix (Complete Guide) to find out!
Are Jug Dogs aggressive?
No, Jack Russell Pug Mix dog is not considered an aggressive breed.
Jug Pug Jack Russell Mix might inherit the high prey instinct of the Jack Russell making some of them vocal and prone to barking. But, this can be tamed through early training and socialization.
Question of the day: Is the Cattlejack Mix an aggressive dog? Check out Blue Heeler Jack Russell Mix (Complete Guide) to find out!
How to train a Jug puppy?
The Pug and Jack Russell Terrier Mix has a tendency to have the âsmall dog syndromeâ whereby they exhibit some form of dominance over their owners or over other dogs.
The Pug Mixed with Jack Russell Terrier should be trained with firmness and consistency without being harsh. Since Jack Russel and Pug Mix is intelligent and perceptive, they respond well to positive reinforcements and rewards.
Jug the dog exercise requirement
Jack Russell Terrier and Pug Mix need at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. Engaging them in games like hide-and-seek or playing fetch with Indestructible Dog Toys will satisfy the chasing instinct of the Pug Jack Russell Terrier Mix.
Giving them toys that they can sink their teeth into also satisfies the Jug Jack Russell Pug Mix natural desire to chew since their Jack Russell parent is a hunting dog.
Fun Fact: Dog bones are great for dogs that love to chew or are aggressive chewers. Chewing can help relieve your dog’s stress and anxiety and help improve their dental health and hygiene.
Pug mixed Jack Russell living conditions
Since they are a small breed, Jugs are great for any type of dwelling. They can pretty much tolerate cold climates because of their dense coat, but care should be given when letting them out during warmer months.
Heat strokes could be possible, especially if they have shorter snouts which make cooling down a bit harder.
If you allow your Jug dogs to roam freely in your backyard during the winter months, make sure your yard is fully fenced. If your town or county prohibits physical fences, try installing a wireless dog fence to keep your pups safe.
A wireless dog fence is great for any type of terrain. Whether you live in an open grass terrain, a hill, or a mountainous terrain, the wireless fence can adapt nicely.
If you have a beautiful view in your backyard and don’t want to visually interfere with that the scenic mountain or beautiful green grass spaces, then installing a wireless dog fence is the solution.
But before you install that invisible doggy fence, it’s a good idea to have an electronic dog door because your pooch can head out to the backyard and come back into the house on their own.
Dog owners that have installed an automatic doggy door for their canine companions love that they no longer need to open and close the door every time their pups need to head out or come back in.
Many owners said the electronic dog door is a time saver and a lifesaver. Whether they work from home or at the office, their furry family members can still enjoy the outdoors during the day and stay safe indoors at night with the help of this automatic doggy door.
Jug Dog breed grooming and cleaning
Grooming a Jack Russell Mix Pug is as easy as 1-2-3. While they have short coats, the Jack Russell Mix with Pug sheds a lot.
However, that doesn’t mean it will be a lot of work for you especially if you choose to purchase the tried and tested Furminator de-shedding tool. This is a de-shedding tool that can reduce shedding to as much as 95%.
To keep a Jack Russell mixed with Pug clean, you can bathe him with a mild and organic dog shampoo that is easy to rinse but leaves a lasting scent. The perfect dog shampoo for your canine friends is one that will leave your pups’ skin and coat feeling clean, moisturized, and healthy.
Trimming your dog’s nails is also necessary. If you previously had a difficult time trimming your dog’s nails because he doesn’t like the loud clipping sound or had a previous bad experience getting his quick nipped, we highly recommend using a dog nail grinder that features whisper-quiet motors and a precise diamond drum bit grinder.
Some dog owners do not realize how important it is to trim their Fidoâs nails. Overgrown nails can cause the nails to curl and get embedded in the paw pads. Ouch! This can result in bacterial infection. Additionally, walking and moving may become difficult as long nails can affect your dog’s gait.
Though a Jack Russell Mix Pug is not prone to ear infections, still, for hygienic purposes, cleaning with ear wipes is recommended.
Lastly, donât forget those pearly white teeth! Some dental diseases that can cost you hundreds of dollars can be avoided if you regularly clean your Fidoâs teeth using dog toothpaste that contains an enzymatic formula with a non-foaming agent.
The enzymatic formula in the toothpaste will help to effectively remove plaque, control tartar buildup, clean your dog’s teeth and gum, and freshen their breath. You’ll want to choose a doggy toothpaste with a non-foaming agent because it will be safer to swallow without the need to rinse.
Here is a table showing the grooming frequency of a Russell Mix with Pug:
| Grooming Needs | Grooming Frequency |
| Brushing | Twice a week. |
| Bathing | Once a month. |
| Teeth brushing | Three to four times weekly. |
| Nail Clipping | As needed. |
| Ear Cleaning | Once a month. |
Is Jack Russell Pug Mix hypoallergenic?
No, Jack Russell Pug Mix is not hypoallergenic. Jug dogs shed moderately throughout the year and shed heavily twice a year during spring and fall.
During the fall and spring season, you may find tons of fur all throughout your home and even on your clothing.
If you’re looking to control the shedding, we highly recommend investing in a powerful and durable vacuum cleaner. Many pet owners prefer the Miele vacuum cleaner because it is quiet and can do a great job on both carpets and hardwood floors.
With two furry family members that shed a lot in my house, the Miele vacuum cleaner has been a lifesaver. We’ve been using it for at least 7 years now and it features 6 different suction power settings specific to the surface you need vacuuming.
Pug Jack Russell Mix food and diet
Growing Russell Pugs should be fed 1/3 cup to 1/2 cup of well-balanced and nutritious food twice per day. Adult Pug Jack Russell Mixes should have 1/2 cup twice a day.
It is not recommended to âfree feedâ your dogs by filling up their doggy bowl and replenishing it once it gets low. They are more prone to obesity this way and small dogs are particularly at risk.
RECOMMENDED: Can Dogs Eat Pork Rib Bones?
Jug Dog common health issues
Jug dogs are generally healthy but there are some conditions they might be more susceptible to because of their flat snouts and wrinkly skin.
Additionally, there are certain hereditary diseases that you should be aware of. Performing an at-home dog DNA test can help you find out what health issues your pooch may be predisposed to.
Knowing this information may help you deal with health issues that might arise later on.
We highly recommend the Embark Dog DNA test because it features both health detection and breed identification. Now you’ll know the exact breed percentages of your mixed canine friends.
1. Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)
Jugs with short noses may have some breathing difficulties due to excessive tissue in their compacted nasal cavity.
2. Pyoderma
Pyoderma is a skin condition whereby excess moisture causes bacterial or yeast infection, especially inside the skin folds.
3. Luxating Patella
Dislocation of the kneecaps may cause limping or lameness.
4. Epilepsy
Seizures are caused by temporary disturbances in the brain.
5. Glaucoma
Improper drainage of eye fluids causing optical nerve and retinal damage.
Don’t miss: How To Soften Dog Eye Boogers?
6. Cushingâs Disease
Condition when the adrenal glands overproduce steroid hormones. Symptoms include excessive thirst, hair loss, weight gain, and frequent urination.
Jug life expectancy
You can expect a Jack Russell Pug Mix lifespan to be longer compared with bigger dogs. On average, the Jug dog lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
While it is true that he may inherit some of the common health problems that usually plague his parents, with the appropriate and right care, you can extend your Jug dog’s life expectancy to its maximum.
Want more information? Check out Jack Russell Lifespan (How Long Do Jack Russells Live?)
Jack Russell Pug breeders
One of the main reasons why there is a growing interest in designer dog breeds is because of the concept of hybrid vigor.
This concept supposedly creates a new and healthier mixed dog like Jack Russell Pug with the hope of reducing the illnesses and other issues that are associated with purebred parents. Essentially, it’s like breeding Pugs to be healthier.
Retro Pug breeders or responsible breeders of the Jug dogs will not crossbreed the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pug without first having them DNA tested.
Aside from DNA testing, the Jack Russell Pug breeders should also provide buyers with a puppy warranty, usually for 30 days or longer. In case the puppy of your choice gets sick, you should be given an option of whether to exchange the pup or have the breeder pay for all the vet expenses.
Don’t forget that responsible breeders wonât hesitate to show you the medical and health records of the parents.
If you’re looking for a Retro Pug, simply search for “Retro Pug breeder near me” on the browser of your choice. We’ve also included three reputable breeders you can look into:
Retro Pug breeder USA
If you’re in the US, you’ll want to get in touch with Greenfield Puppies (greenfieldpuppies.com/jug-puppies-for-sale). They’ve been curating dog breeders since the year 2000. They thoroughly screen the breeders they advertise on their site, making sure that no illegal practices are being done to the dogs.
Retro Pug breeder UK
Living in the UK and looking for a Retro Pug? Try Douglas Hall Kennels (douglashallkennels.co.uk/jug-puppies-for-sale). They provide families with proper guidance and education about Retro Pugs in preparation for their pets.
Retro Pug breeder Canada
When you search for Retro Pug breeder Canada, Pugulug Pug Rescue (pugalug.com) in one of your options. They are a rescue organization that are committed to giving love and attention to Retro Pugs and purebred Pugs until they find a new home.
Jug puppies
Take your time when choosing a Jug puppy. One of the main questions potential buyers of a Pug Jack Russell Mix puppy will have is “what is a Jug puppy’s temperament?”
Well, normal and healthy Jug pups should be friendly and curious. The Jack Russell Pug Mix puppies should approach you with wagging tails. They should play with you, perhaps tug your shoelace or pants and even crawl into you.
Then evaluate the Jack Russell x Pug puppies one by one. To know which among the Pug Jack Russell Mix puppies have an easygoing personality, they would normally request belly rubs from strangers.
You can also try rolling the Pug and Jack Russell Mix puppies on their backs. For Jack Russell and Pug Mix puppies with independent nature, theyâd usually resist getting rolled on their backs for some belly rubs.
Once youâve chosen your Jack Russell Pug Mix puppy, take him to the vet for wellness exams and for microchipping.
It is also highly recommended that even before bringing your new Jug puppy home, you should puppy proof your house. It is also a good idea to already have his supplies rolled out such as a chew-proof dog bed, a crate, water and food bowls, a retractable dog leash, and a collar.
Related Article: How to Crate Train A Puppy in 6 Steps
Jug Dogs price
You have a choice whether to buy the puppy from a breeder or from a rescue or adoption center near you. If you choose to buy from a breeder, expect to shell out between $800 and $1,800.
If you get the pup from a local shelter, then the Retro Pug price can be from $300 to about $600.
Check out: Why Are Pugs So Expensive?
Retro Pug adoption
Rescue dogs are no different from other dogs. They deserve a forever home too. Here are some shelters you can visit to adopt a Retro Pug:
Pacific Pug Rescue (pacificpugrescue.org)
Established in 2006, the Pacific Pug Rescue is a nonprofit organization that rescues and rehabilitates unwanted Pugs to prepare them for their new forever home.
Vintage Pug Senior Sanctuary (vintagepugs.com)
A registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Vintage Pug Senior Sanctuary rescues abandoned and unwanted senior Pugs and mixed Pug breeds, provide them with hospice care, and prepare them for their new home.
MuffinPug Rescue (muffinpugrescue.com)
Based in UK, the MuffinPug Rescue rescues not just Pugs but also Pug crosses like Jug Dogs, Retro Pug, and Jack Russell Pug Mix. The rescue organization proactively treats abused Pugs and nurses them back to good health. Its mission is to end the suffering of Pugs that have been neglected or exploited and to promote healthy living.
Before the Pugs are relocated to their new forever home, the MuffinPug Rescue wants to ensure that their pugs are healthy, well-nourished, and well-taken care of.
Places to find Jug puppies for sale
Everything begins with a responsible breeder and this is why we have listed two breeders below whom you can contact and see if they have available Jack Russell Pug Mix puppies for sale.
Greenfield Puppies (greenfieldpuppies.com) have Jug puppies for sale from $700 to $800. If you cannot personally pick up your new fur baby, Greenfield Puppies provides a puppy shipping service with a starting cost of $545.
If you are from Pennsylvania and looking for Jug puppies for sale near me, try Ridgewood Kennels (ridgewoodpuppies.com) which has been awarded a star breeder award.
For your convenience, you can download their app from the Google play store or from the Apple app store.
Finding healthy Jugs for sale
There are a lot of dog lovers whoâd rather get an adult dog. The most common reasons are they do not want to get into the hassle of potty training and excessive chewing as a result of teething.
If you also prefer to look for an adult Jack Russell Pug Mix for sale, weâll help you find the right Jug dog for sale near you.
It may not be easy looking for an adult Pug cross Jack Russell for sale, but with perseverance, you might come across a breeder who has a Jack Russell and Pug Mix for sale that will retire soon.
By this, it means that these dogs are no longer fit to get pregnant but are otherwise still at the peak of their health.
The quickest way to find Retro Mops Pug for sale is to search the internet and look for âRetro Pugs for sale near me.â Here are some top picks:
AA Ridgewood Kennels (ridgewoodpuppies.com/puppies-for-sale/jug-puppies-for-sale)
If youâre looking for Retro Pug for sale, AA Ridgewood Kennels has been in the Retro Pug sale business for almost 50 years! Aside from Retro Pugs, they breed other small dog breeds too. Theyâre certified by the American Canine Association (ACA), so you can be sure that their Retro Pug puppies are in good health should you choose to buy a Retro Pug from them.
Keystone Puppies (keystonepuppies.com)
Keystone Puppies screens and curates breeders that have Retro Mop Pug for sale so it would be easy for you to choose the right puppy to adopt. They also offer delivery services in case you donât live close by to pick up your puppy in person.
Petzlover (petzlover.com/us/all/jug-for-sale)
Petzlover is a directory of available Retro Pugs for sale that has details like the basic information of pups, pictures, price, address, and contact numbers, so it will be easy for you to communicate with the breeders.
Buckeye Puppies (buckeyepuppies.com)
Look into Buckeye Puppies for Jack Russell and Pug Mix for sale. In case they do not have Pug Jack Russell Mix for sale, you can ask for recommendations of where to find an adult Pug and Jack Russell Mix for sale.
Jack Russel Pug Mix: Pros and Cons
Still not sure yet if you will get a Jack Russel Pug? Here is a table to help you make your final decision.
| Pros | Cons |
| Longer lifespan compared with other mixed dog breeds. | Sheds a lot. |
| Fairly affordable. | Tends to bark a lot. |
| Comes in a variety of colors. | Can be stubborn. |
| Suitable for apartment living. | Needs daily exercise. |
| Gets along with older children. | Sensitive to heat. |
| Easy to train. | Has the tendency to be aggressive to house guests. |
Is the Jug Dog right for me?
The Jug dog is right for you if you can devote time to his exercise needs. Though he is not as energetic as his Jack Russell parent, still, he needs his daily physical stimulation.
Do you have smaller pets at home? If yes, you have to socialize your Jug dog with them early on; otherwise, it can create âpet frictionâ in the household because of the herding instinct plus the jealousy streak of a Jug dog.
Related Questions
Jug Dogs can cost between $800 and $1,800 if you choose to buy them from a breeder. If you prefer to adopt from a local rescue or shelter, then Jug Dogs can cost around $300 to about $600.
The life expectancy of a Jug Dog is about 12 to 15 years on average. With proper care, love, and attention, your Jug Dog can expect to live longer.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Resources:
https://www.pugdogclubofamerica.com/pug-health-testing.html
With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.
