The puggle is a cute little dog, a designer hybrid whose ancestors are a pug and a beagle. Potential owners, worried about the ancestral mix, have expressed concern about these dogs. They fear that the hunting instincts of the beagle and the crinkly face of the pug might make them difficult to cope with. Are they likely 
to chase anything smaller (or even bigger) than themselves? Would they see a domestic cat or pet rabbit as prey, for example? And do those wrinkly faces cause all sorts of problems relating to hygiene?
Several myths surround the puggle, so it is important to establish from the start that these dogs are not nearly as difficult to cope with as people might think. The five main myths surrounding puggles relate to maintenance, health, boisterousness and how trainable they might – or might not – be.
Let’s tackle each of these myths as they arise.
1. It is not true that they are high maintenance dogs. All they need is to be exercised, groomed, kept clean (which includes a daily brushing of teeth and cleaning out of their ears) and the occasional bath.
2. It is a myth that they are sickly dogs. They’re as healthy as the next, provided they are given a reasonable amount of care.
3. It is not true they are hyperactive. They are just high energy dogs who wallow in attention.
4. It is completely false that they are untrainable. While yes, they are inclined to be self-willed and independent, all the owner needs do to counteract this is show them who is boss.
5. Finally, people think that they howl their little heads off if left alone for long periods and dig holes in the garden when taken outside.
Well, for a start, no dog should be left alone for long periods. If this situation cannot be avoided, then they should be given plenty of items to occupy them in the owner’s absence. An adequate supply of activity-type toys should be placed within reach and the radio switched on so that they are not disturbed by ‘the sound of silence’.
Puggles might dig the odd hole, but then so do terriers, spaniels and other breeds of dog. The thing to do is give them a special spot in the garden and teach them that it is okay to dig there.
In conclusion, therefore, it can be stated categorically that puggles are no more difficult to rear than any other dog. On the contrary, they are a lot easier than some, be they designer, hybrid or mongrel.