Can you cross a small breed dog with a much larger one? Well, in today’s world, it is possible. Thanks to the advances in scientific technology, it is getting easier to cross two breeds that you wouldn’t think of mixing.
One of these is the Rottweiler Pug Mix or Pugweiler for short. A combination of a charming and sociable personality with an energetic and protective quality.
Just like other Rottweiler mixes crossed with smaller dogs, such as the Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix or the Rottweiler Dachshund Mix (Dachsweiler), the Pugweiler is an attempt by breeders to create smaller versions of a popular large breed and also as a way for Rottweiler enthusiasts who live in smaller homes to have a means to somehow own a similar looking breed.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the Pug Rottweiler Mix.
Table of Contents
Rottweiler Pug Mix: Breed overview
| Other Names | Pugweiller, Pug Weiler |
| Purity | Hybrid |
| Purpose | Companion dog |
| AKC Recognition | No |
| Size | Small – Medium |
| Weight | 20 – 30 pounds |
| Height | 11 – 13 inches |
| Coat Colors | Black, Fawn, Brown |
| Child Friendliness | Moderate |
| Canine Friendliness | Moderate |
| Training Difficulty | Moderate |
| Grooming Upkeep | Easy |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate |
| Health | Moderate |
| Lifespan | 12 – 15 years |
| Puppy Costs | $1,000 upwards |
What is a Pug Rottweiler Mix?
The Pug Rottweiler Mix is a designer dog that is a crossbreed between the diminutive Pug and the more massive Rottweiler.
It is a small to medium-sized dog that typically has the face of a Pug and the body of a Rottweiler. They can only be bred through artificial insemination because of the size difference between the two parent breeds, with the Rottweiler used as the dam and the Pug as the male stud.
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Rottweiler history
The Rottweiler descended from the Mastiff-type dogs brought by the ancient Roman legions to Germania. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, these dogs were mainly cultivated in the town of Rottweil in southwestern Germany where they were used to move herds and also to protect the butcher’s property from bandits. This gave them the moniker “Butcher’s Dog of Rottweil.”
In recent years, they are not only kept as companion and guard dogs, but also found new roles in assisting law enforcement officers in search and rescue operations, apprehending criminals, and the search for illicit drugs and explosives.
Pug history
The Pug dates back more than 2,000 years in China where they were well-loved by the aristocracy and even the Tibetan monks. They are one of the three flat-faced breeds, which include the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu, that were cultivated by members of the imperial court as pets for the emperor and his family.
The breed was brought to Europe by Dutch traders during the 1500s and became prized by the aristocracy as well.
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Pug vs Rottweiler
The main difference between Pug and Rottweiler is that Pug is short-snouted with a squarish and short thickset body while Rottweiler has a medium snout and a large muscular frame.
Rottie Pug Mix
Breeding Pugs over the years have led to shorter snouts and legs making them more prone to health problems. Brachycephalic syndrome is common among Pugs wherein the respiratory airways become obstructed due to enlarged tonsils, stenotic nares, and elongated soft palate.
This is one of the advantages of crossing a Pug with a breed that has a longer muzzle like the Rottweiler. Rottweiler Mix with Pug has fewer breathing problems and it somehow corrects the condition in subsequent generations of Pugs.
Pugweiler physical appearance
Since Rottweiler mixed with Pug is a hybrid of two different-looking purebreds, you can expect their physical appearance to vary from dog to dog.
They would either be a Pug that looks like Rottweiler or vice versa. But, typically, a Rottweiler Pug face would have longer snouts than a Pug, which is beneficial to the offspring since that means he would have lesser chances of developing breathing problems.
A Pugweiler’s body would have a compact but stout appearance with proportional legs in relation to their height.
The head can be rounded but broader than a Pug with large dark brown eyes and a dark nose.
The tail is either medium in length that is carried slightly upwards or shorter and curls towards the body.
Pug Rottie Mix size, height, and weight
Pug mixed with a Rottweiler is a small to medium-sized dog. Pugs have a squarish body that is leaner compared to the massive and muscular physique of the Rottweiler, so the Pugweiler can be expected to have a body type that is midway between the two breeds.
Pugweilers reach a height between 11 to 13 inches at maturity which is almost similar to the Pug’s height but will be heavier between 20 to 30 pounds with the male Pug Rottie Mix exhibiting more muscularity.
| Height | Weight | |
| Male | 11 – 13 inches | 20 – 30 pounds |
| Female | 11 – 12 inches | 20 – 25 pounds |
Rottweiler Pug coat colors and types
Pugweiler Mix has a double coat with a short dense undercoat and guard hair that are medium in length. It appears similar to the Pug and Rottweiler’s smooth and glossy coat that lies flat across the body.
Pug with Rottweiler markings is typical for this mixed breed with a dominant black overall coat with mahogany or rust markings on the eyebrows, muzzle, chest, and legs. It is also possible for the Pugweiler to have a fawn coloring similar to the Pug.
Pug Rottweiler temperament and personality
Pug crossed with Rottweiler is a combination of the Pug and Rottweiler’s temperaments. They are intelligent, observant, and receptive to learning.
The Pugweiler shows great affection to their family and loves being in their company, but may also display some aloofness to strangers like the Rottweiler. But, overall, they are friendly and comfortable around strangers.
They are prone to separation anxiety, so they must not be left alone for long periods of time. Otherwise, unwanted behaviors may develop like chewing furniture or other items or pooping indiscriminately around the house.
Fun Fact: If your Pugweiler is prone to separation anxiety and has a tendency to chew furniture as a way to cope with his anxiety, try giving him a high-quality, 100% natural dog bone that contains protein. Chewing helps your pup alleviate some of that anxiety, stress, and tension.
Do Pug and Rottweiler Mix make great family pets?
Yes, Pug and Rottweiler Mix do make great family pets since they are affectionate, gentle, and loyal. The Pug Mix Rottweiler could easily get along with kids and other pets just as long as they are socialized and trained early.
Pug Mix Rottweiler also has a moderate protective instinct. They would not hesitate to alert your family members by barking when they spot a stranger approaching your home.
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Are Pugweilers aggressive dogs?
Rottweiler Mix Pug doesn’t seem as intimidating as the Rottweiler due to their size, but can still display slight protective instincts if they feel that their family is in danger.
The Rottweiler side of the Pugweiler has territorial instincts and may show some wariness towards strangers or other animals. But, this can be corrected by early socialization and proper training.
Overall, the Pugweiler is an even-tempered breed that rarely shows any sign of aggressive behavior, like excessive barking or growling. They are typically comfortable and calm to most people and other animals.
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Ideal living conditions for the Pugweiler
Since the Pug cross Rottweiler is a small breed, they can easily adapt to any kind of living conditions, whether it be a large home or a small apartment.
If the Pug cross Rottweiler has a short snout, it is not ideal for them to live in hot or humid places. The small air passages in their nostrils may not adequately cool the air or release heat when he is very warm.
Pug Mix with Rottweiler training
Pug x Rottweiler is an intelligent breed that can be trained easily. But, they need someone who is firm and consistent with the training. They are more receptive to alpha owners since they have a tendency to be stubborn.
Puppy socialization can begin before they are two (2) months old or around the time they were given their primary vaccinations. During this time, they are more responsive to other people and animals, and getting them to familiarize with various smells will make them more at ease with different situations.
At 4 months old, Pug x Rottweiler can be taught basic commands like sit, walk, or stay. Positive reinforcements such as by using treats and praises will motivate them to follow the commands.
Training sessions should be kept short to prevent them from getting distracted and bored.
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Pug and Rottweiler exercise requirement
Rottweiler x Pug only need moderate exercise. Unlike the Rottweilers, which are highly active and needs to be exercised at least 2 hours a day, the Pug is only mildly active. In general, it’s best that Pugs do not overly strained themselves physically to prevent overheating.
A great way to exercise your Pug and Rottweiler Mix is to take them for short walks around the neighborhood every day for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. They tend to be energetic in short bursts and may tire easily if exercised strenuously.
When taking your Pug and Rottweiler Mix out for a walk, be sure to use either a retractable dog leash or a rope dog leash to keep your K9 friends under your full control while still allowing them the space to explore their surrounding.
Ideally, you’ll want to spread their exercise routine into two (2) sessions each day to even out their energy levels throughout the day.
If you have a busy schedule and have a backyard or patio, it is a good idea to let them roam freely in your yard. Simply walking, light running, chasing, or jumping is a great form of exercise for your little Pugweiler puppies.
If you do let your Pug Rottweiler Mix puppies roam freely in your backyard, make sure your yard is fully fenced-in. Please note that some towns or counties may have zoning laws that prohibit putting up physical fences. If you’re in this situation, don’t fret!
A good alternative would be to install a wireless dog fence for your Rottweiler Pug puppies which will also keep them safe and contained within your backyard. Many K9 owners prefer the wireless dog fence because it is invisible, cost-efficient, and flexible to any and all types of terrains.
So whether you live on a mountainous, hilly, or flat grassy terrains, the invisible doggy fence can still keep your pups safe no matter where you live.
Many dog parents with an invisible doggy fence will also install an electronic dog door so their furry family members can head outside to the backyard and back into the house all on their own.
What’s great about the automatic doggy door is that it features many programmable modes and you can also customize access hours. This way, your pooch can enjoy the outdoors during the day while staying safe indoors at night.
So whether you work from home or at the office, your pups can now get some fresh air without requiring you to open and close the door behind them.
Rottweiler and Pug grooming and cleaning
Pug Rottweiler Mix breeds are moderate shedders, so they need to be brushed twice every week to prevent hairs accumulating around the house. Most groomers would recommend using a medium slicker brush or a hand glove to control the shedding and remove any loose fur.
However, during heavy shedding seasons when they blow out their coat, they need to be brushed every day with a FURminator de-shedding tool to remove tangles and matting.
Brushing their coat not only removes loose hairs and debris, but also distributes natural oils to their coat for a shinier look.
During the heavy shedding seasons, you can expect to have a moderate amount of fur on your sofa, carpet, rug, and floor. If you want to keep the amount of loose fur under control, we recommend investing in a powerful vacuum cleaner such as the Miele Vacuum Cleaner, which is quiet, durable, and can easily transition between carpet and hardwood floor.
Bathing a Pug Rottweiler Mix can be done once a month or when needed using a dog shampoo that is mild and organic. That’s because frequent bathing usually dries out their skin and can cause itchiness, irritation, and further shedding.
If a Pug Rottweiler has skin folds around the face, this should be wiped with a dry cloth or unscented doggie wipes at least twice weekly to keep it free from dirt and moisture. Bacteria and fungi can easily accumulate in those areas and may even emit some foul odor.
It is also wise to brush their teeth several times every week with an enzymatic dog toothpaste that also contains a non-foaming agent. This minimizes plaque and tartar from forming and also keeps their teeth clean and their breath smelling fresh.
Lastly, don’t forget to trim your Rottie Pug Mix’s nails before they grow too long. As soon as you hear their nails tapping against your hardwood floor, it is time to trim their nails.
If your Pugweiler is sensitive to the loud clipping sound, we highly recommend using a dog nail grinder which features whisper-quiet motor and a precision diamond drum bit grinder.
| Grooming Needs | Grooming Frequency |
| Bathing | Monthly. |
| Coat brushing | Twice weekly. |
| Teeth Brushing | 3 – 4 times weekly. |
| Ear Cleaning | Check weekly. |
| Nail Trimming | As needed. |
Are Rottweiler Pug Mix hypoallergenic?
No, Rottweiler Pug Mix is not hypoallergenic. Pug and Rottweiler cross shed throughout the year and will leave loose hair attached to your furniture, clothing, and the floor.
It is not really the hair that can cause allergic reactions in some people but rather the dander and dried saliva that sticks to it.
Do Pug Rottweiler Mix shed?
Yes, Pug Rottweiler Mix do shed. Despite their short coats, Rottweiler mixed with a Pug sheds moderately throughout the year and heavier during the autumn and spring months when they blow out their coat.
During the fall season, their body shed fur to prepare for thicker undercoats for the coming cold winter months.
On the other hand, that undercoat will again be shed during the spring to remove excess thick hair to prepare for warmer months.
Shedding can be controlled by regularly brushing their hair (as we’ve discussed above) and also through the right diet and vitamin supplementation.
Let’s discuss their dietary needs next.
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Pug Mixed with Rottweiler food and diet
A proper and balanced diet is essential for a half Pug half Rottweiler. As a puppy, a Pug Mixed with Rottweiler requires a higher amount of calories for the healthy development of bones, tissues, and muscles.
This is the reason why puppy food is made differently from adult dog food. Puppy food is higher in calories because puppies are more active and playful.
Take note that puppy food is designed and formulated differently. For example, puppy food for Maltese has a different formulation from puppy food for a Rottweiler.
That said, choose the right one for your Pug mixed with a Rottweiler puppy which has a specific ratio of phosphorus, calcium, and other minerals for medium to large dog breeds.
At about 6 months of age, you can slowly transition to adult dog food. The diet of an adult half Pug half Rottweiler Mix should contain at least 22% protein and the right amount of fat, carbs, vitamins and minerals.
Look for dog food that is made with real meat, fresh fruits and vegetables. Do take note that a lot of Pugs tend to have allergic reactions to poultry, so you may want to stay away from chicken, duck, and turkey unless your dog does not show any reactions.
You may choose beef, pork, lamb, and even fish because these meats are high in omega fatty acids and are known not to cause allergic reactions.
Here is a feeding guide to help you plan the appropriate food measurements for a half Pug half Rottweiler mixed dog. The amount of food may be lesser or more depending on the activity levels of your canine friends.
| Age | Dietary Proportion |
| 2 – 3 months | 1 cup of food, divided into 3 portions |
| 3 – 6 months | 1.5 to 2 cups, divided into 3 portions |
| Adults | 2 to 2.5 cups, divided into 2 portions |
Rottweiler Pug Mix health issues
Though it may seem odd to mix a large dog breed like a Rottweiler with a small dog such as a Pug, you’d be surprised to learn that there are Rottweiler Pug Mix dogs that you can buy from responsible breeders.
Are you wondering if these mixed dogs are healthy? Yes, a Rottweiler Pug Mix is generally healthy and will have a long lifespan as long as he is well cared for.
However, it does not mean that they won’t inherit the common health problems of their parents.
If you’re ever curious about what health issues your Rottweiler Pug Mix may be most susceptible to or if you have a mixed dog breed and you want to know their exact breed information, we highly recommend giving the Embark Dog DNA Test Breed and Health Kit a try. It is easy to use and the results usually come back within 2 to 3 weeks.
For now, here are some of the few health issues that may affect your Rottweiler Pug Mix:
1. Down Syndrome Rottweiler Pug Mix
Have you heard of a dog diagnosed with down syndrome? Perhaps not. It’s because dogs cannot suffer from down syndrome. Instead, some dogs can have symptoms that are similar to down syndrome.
Why is it genetically impossible for dogs like a Rottweiler Pug Mix not to suffer from down syndrome? It’s because the down syndrome is caused by a defect in chromosome # 21 in humans. The chromosomal makeup of humans and canines are not similar, with humans having 23 pairs of chromosomes while canines have 39 pairs.
And, chromosome # 21 in humans is not the same as chromosome # 21 in canines. But, same as humans, dogs can also have chromosomal abnormalities that can produce almost similar symptoms to the down syndrome to humans such a delay in physical and mental growth, lack of muscle structure, hearing and eyesight problems, and shorter limbs.
CHECK OUT: Can Dogs Have Down Syndrome?
2. Hip Dysplasia
A congenital defect, hip dysplasia, affects the growth of the ball and the socket that is located in the hip joints. It causes lameness and a hard time going up and down the stairway.
3. Elbow Dysplasia
About 37% of Rottweilers are diagnosed with this genetic condition. Elbow dysplasia is an orthopedic condition affecting the normal development of bones in the elbow areas.
4. Overheating
If the Pug Rottweiler Mix inherits the squashed face of the Pug parent, he is susceptible to overheating and dehydration. The common sign is excessive panting.
5. Allergies
The Pug parent tends to be affected with skin problems caused by food protein and seasonal changes. So, if you see signs like excessive scratching and red sores, you may want to discuss with a veterinarian regarding a change in diet.
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6. Von Willebrand Disease
Rottweiler is one of the dog breeds commonly seen with this bleeding disorder. Since this disease affects the blood’s ability to clot, the affected dogs can suffer from prolonged bleeding that can cause anemia.
Pug Rottweiler Mix lifespan
The life expectancy of a Pug Rottweiler Mix is 12 to 15 years.
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Rottweiler and Pug Mix breeders
Are there ethical breeders who breed Rottweiler and Pug together? Yes, but we cannot say that there are many of them. Thus, finding a Rottweiler cross Pug may not be as easy as compared to if you buy purebred dogs.
The same when buying purebreds, the qualities of what you should look for are the same such as the following:
- Go for the breeders who advertise their available puppies on their websites. It is through these websites that you can read about their affiliations with dog organizations, the number of years they have been breeding dogs, and the reviews from customers.
- They should welcome you to view the puppies, meet the parents, and see the breeding/whelping facilities.
- Health records and puppy warranty are provided by responsible breeders.
- All puppies for sale should have received their second round of core vaccinations and have been dewormed.
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Pugweiler puppies
When choosing a Rottweiler Pug Mix puppy, choose the one that moves well and one that is not afraid to approach strangers. If the Pug Rottweiler Mix puppies are hesitant to approach people, it is an indication of shyness that may lead to defensive behaviors like nipping, growling, and biting.
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Rottweiler Pug puppies are curious little creatures that will not think twice about eating anything they see. So, make sure to remove all toxic elements around your home to avoid accidental poising of Pug Rottweiler puppies.
What are the things you need to prepare for before getting the Rottweiler Pug Mix puppies?
Let’s find out in the next section of this comprehensive guide.
Rottweiler Pug Mix price
The average cost of buying a Pugweiler is $1,000. It can be more expensive if the parents are show-qualities dogs or if the puppies have champion pedigrees.
In addition to the initial price of purchasing a puppy, there are also other expenses you need to prepare for which we have listed below.
Some of these expenses are one-time such as a dog crate and spaying or neutering while some are lifetime expenses. It does not come out cheap so think well before getting a dog.
In most cases, the dogs being surrendered in rescue or adoption centers are caused by the inability of the owners to carry on with the expenses of dog ownership.
| Dog Essential Items | Estimated Cost | Find it here: |
| Food & Water bowls | $20 – $30 | Doggy bowls |
| Monthly Food Cost | $50 – $70 | Puppy and dog food |
| Monthly Treats | $15 – $18 | Doggy treats |
| Dog Bed | $25 – $50 | Doggy beds |
| Crate | $70 – $100 | Doggy crates |
| Leash & Collar | $15 – $30 | Dog collar |
| Toys | $20 | Dog toys |
| Potty Training Pads | $25 | Training pads |
| Grooming Supplies | $30 – $45 | Grooming Supplies |
| Deworming | $15 – $30 | |
| Annual Veterinary Visit | $50 – $250 | |
| Anti-Rabies | $15 – $40 | |
| Core Vaccinations | $25 – $50 | |
| Spaying/Neutering | $320 | |
| TOTAL | $695 – $1,078 |
Places to find Rottweiler cross Pug puppies for sale
A Rottweiler cross Pug puppies are not always available. One reason could probably be the high cost of breeding these two purebred dogs via artificial insemination. Just the same, you can go to breeders of Rottweilers or Pugs to ask for some referrals.
Rottweiler Pug Mix for sale USA
You may find your Rottweiler Pug Mix puppies at Von Ous Rottweilers (vonousrottweilers.com) located in Fayetteville, Georgia.
Rottweiler Pug Mix for sale Canada
You may want to check with the breeder at Mächtige Wãchter Rottweilers (machtigewachterrottweilers.com) to see if they’re also cross breeding Rottweilers with other purebred dogs like a Pug. They are located in Centreville, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Finding a healthy Rottweiler Pug Mix for sale
Are you more interested in searching for an adult Pugweiler for sale? There are some breeders who sell their adult dogs that have retired from their breeding programs but are still healthy and active.
If you prefer to rescue or adopt your puppy, you can also choose to visit rescue or adoption centers that may also have Pug with Rottweiler markings for sale.
Pug Rottweiler Mix for sale Texas
Doyle’s Rottweilers (doylesrottweilers.net) is voted the number one dog breeder of Rottweilers in Houston, Texas. You can ask the breeder for Pug Rottweiler Mix for sale recommendations.
Pug cross Rottweiler for sale in Rescue Center
Most often than not, you may be able to find Rottweiler mixed dogs in rescue centers such as Florida Rottweiler Rescue Ranch (flrottweilerrescueranch.org).
Mixed breeds similar to Rottweiler Pug Mix
Are you also interested in other similarly beautiful Rottweiler mixes? Here are some that might also fancy your interest:
- Rottweiler Corgi Mix
- Rottweiler Husky Mix or Rottsky
- Rottweiler Bulldog Mix
- Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix
- Rottweiler Shar Pei Mix
- Rottweiler Border Collie Mix
- Rottweiler Dalmatian Mix
- Rottweiler Great Dane Mix
- Rottweiler Aussie Mix
- Rottweiler Golden Retriever Mix
Pug Rottweiler Mix: Pros and Cons
To summarize what to expect from a Pug Rottweiler, here is a table that shows the good and the not-so-good traits of this designer dog breed.
| Pros | Cons |
| Playful. | Moderate to heavy shedder. |
| Protective. | Not hypoallergenic. |
| If trained and socialized well, a good canine buddy for kids. | Tends to be stubborn. |
| Can be good with other household pets. | Cannot tolerate solitude. |
| Generally healthy. | Can be headstrong, so training can be a challenge. |
| Not aggressive. | Tendency to drool and overheat. |
Is the Rottweiler Pug Mix right for me?
What’s good about a Rottweiler Pug Mix is that it is not as athletic as a Rottweiler. Hence, this dog can also be taken care of by those who can only provide moderate forms of physical activity.
A Pug Rottweiler is a sociable and friendly dog that loves to be around people all the time, if not, separation anxieties can lead to destructive behaviors.
You do not have to be a seasoned dog owner to be a proud owner of a Rottweiler Pug Mix because this mixed dog breed may have his stubborn streaks but with consistency, you can teach your K9 companion how to behave well.
Plus, of course, a Rottweiler Pug carries the genes of a Rott, meaning, he is a perfect watchdog and protector of the humans he loves.
Related Questions
Yes, but the procedure is costly. A Pug is a small dog breed while a Rottweiler is on the other end of the spectrum. Thus, it requires artificial insemination to breed these two dogs together.
A Golden Rottie or a Rottweiler mixed with a Golden Retriever is the best. A Golden Retriever has a gentle and very calm personality so it balances out the aggressive tendencies of a Rottweiler.
A Rottweiler is believed to be a product of more than 2 dog breeds namely an Asian Mastiff, a Bernese Mountain dog, a Great Swiss Mountain dog, an Appezenler, and an Entlebucher.
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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.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-61494094
https://rottweilerhealth.org/funded-research/
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.
