The Pug Zu: Your Guide to the Playful Pug Shih Tzu Mix
Are you looking for an affectionate, entertaining companion dog that fits well in an apartment or smaller home? The Pug Zu may be the perfect pooch for you! This adorable designer breed crosses a Pug with a Shih Tzu to create a small dog with a big personality. Playful, smart, and loving, the Pug Zu charms everyone he meets.
While this mixed breed has only been around for a couple decades, Pug Zus have rapidly grown in popularity, especially among owners seeking a petite, low-shedding dog to cuddle with. Could the cheerful Pug Zu be your new best friend? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this delightful crossbreed dog!
The Origin of the Pug Zu
Like many designer dog breeds, the exact origins of the Pug Zu are a bit of a mystery. Intentional crossings of purebred Pugs and Shih Tzus likely began sometime in the late 1990s or early 2000s in the United States, as trendy hybrid dogs were gaining popularity.
Pugs and Shih Tzus were an obvious pairing, as they are both ancient breeds favored by Chinese royalty as companion dogs. Shih Tzu means "lion dog" in Chinese, and they were prized lap dogs during the Ming Dynasty. Pugs also have a royal heritage, serving as mascots for ruling families in China as far back as 400 B.C.
Combining the two breeds created the ultimate tiny companion with the best traits of both – the outgoing nature and comical wrinkles of the Pug packaged in the portable size and glamorous coat of the Shih Tzu. And thus, the dapper Pug Zu was born!
Of course, accidental matings between Pugs and Shih Tzus probably happened naturally from time to time. And today, multigenerational crosses (a Pug Zu bred to another Pug Zu or back to a Pug or Shih Tzu) are also common. But breeders began intentionally producing first generation Pug Zu puppies and marketing them as a unique new hybrid in the early 2000s.
The American Canine Hybrid Club, which documents designer dog breeds, first recorded the Pug Zu in 2003. While still a relatively rare breed compared to purebred dogs, the Pug Zu has steadily risen in popularity over the last two decades.
The Pug was the 28th most popular breed in the United States in 2020 according to AKC registration statistics, and the Shih Tzu ranked 20th. Combining two breeds in the top 30 has proven to be a recipe for success, and the Pug Zu is now one of the most sought-after designer dogs.
What Does a Pug Zu Look Like?
With designer dogs, it can be hard to predict exactly what a puppy will look like, since they can inherit physical traits from either parent breed. In the case of the Pug Shih Tzu mix, the two parent breeds do have quite a few differences in appearance.
In general, you can expect an adult Pug Zu to be small in stature, typically weighing 10-20 pounds and standing 8-12 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a rounded head, short muzzle, and endearingly big, dark eyes. The ears are floppy and the tail curls up over the back.
The Pug Zu‘s coat is usually a mix between the Pug and Shih Tzu. It‘s often described as medium-length, with a slight wave or curl. Most have a dense undercoat as well. The coat is very soft and silky to the touch. Shedding is typically minimal, making Pug Zus a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Coat colors seen in Pug Zus include black, fawn, apricot, silver, brown, white, and brindle. Ofte2 the dog will have a mix of two or more colors in its coat. Black masks, white blazes on the chest, and white paws are also common markings.
Some Pug Zus have a shorter muzzle and more heavily wrinkled face, taking after their Pug parent. Others have a slightly longer snout and flatter face, inherited from the Shih Tzu side. Cute underbites are common, and the dogs often look like they are smiling. Eye shape, ear size and carriage, and bone structure can also vary.
[INSERT PHOTO GRID OF DIFFERENT PUG ZU EXAMPLES]Pug Zu Temperament and Personality
One of the biggest draws of Pug Zus is their delightful temperaments. Both Pugs and Shih Tzus are bred to be companion dogs, and they pass their friendly, affectionate personalities on to their offspring.
Pug Zu owners describe them as the ultimate velcro dogs. They absolutely crave human attention and affection. You will rarely find a Pug Zu far from their owner‘s side. They often follow their favorite humans from room to room – even into the bathroom!
"Sunny has to be touching me or sitting on my lap at all times. If I get up to go to the kitchen, he‘s stuck to my heels like glue. He even sleeps under the covers with me. I‘ve never had a more cuddly dog!"
- Carrie L., Pug Zu owner
Besides their love of snuggling, Pug Zus are known for their entertaining, clownish personalities. They inherit the Pug‘s playful nature and love being the center of attention. Pug Zus are little hams that enjoy showing off and doing silly things to make their owners laugh.
That sense of humor is balanced out by a keen intelligence. Pug Zus are very smart and quick learners. They can have a mischievous streak, so it‘s important to keep them challenged with positive training, interactive toys, and mental enrichment games.
Pug Zus tend to be adaptable and make excellent apartment dogs. They are small, quiet, and relatively low-energy – as long as they get a couple of short daily walks and some playtime, they are content to cuddle up next to you while you relax on the sofa.
Most Pug Zus are very friendly and social. When properly socialized, they get along well with people of all ages, other dogs, and even cats. Their gentle, patient demeanor makes them a great fit for families with children.
| Trait | Pug | Shih Tzu | Pug Zu |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friendliness | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Playfulness | 5 | 3 | 4 |
| Intelligence | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| Energy Level | 3 | 2 | 3 |
| Affection | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Adaptability | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Rating on a scale of 1 (low) to 5 (high). Data based on breed standards and expert opinions.
Despite their toy size, Pug Zus are alert and confident little watchdogs. They may not be very physically imposing, but they will certainly sound the alarm if a stranger approaches. Early training can prevent excessive barking though.
Health and Care
All dogs have some risk of inheriting genetic health problems from their parent breeds. Pugs in particular are prone to several health issues related to their flat faces, bulging eyes, and stout build. Shih Tzus have some of the same concerns.
Crossing the two breeds seems to minimize but not totally eliminate these predispositions in the Pug Zu. Here are some of the most common health problems seen in the breed:
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome (narrow nostrils, elongated soft palate causing breathing difficulty)
- Dental crowding and periodontal disease
- Eye ulcers and proptosis (eyes bulging out of socket)
- Skin fold dermatitis
- Luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps)
- Spinal disc disease
- Allergies
Choosing a puppy from health-tested parents can reduce the risk of some inherited disorders. According to a 2013 study, crossbreed dogs visit the vet less often and have lower incidences of many genetic disorders compared to their purebred counterparts.
"Hybrid vigor" is not a guarantee of health though. Keeping your Pug Zu at a lean weight, providing appropriate exercise, feeding a nutritious diet, keeping up with preventive care like vaccinations and parasite control, and getting prompt treatment for any issues that arise will help your Pug Zu live their best life.
The typical lifespan for a Pug Zu is around 12 to 16 years. This is slightly longer than the 12 to 15 years for purebred Pugs but not quite as long as the 12 to 18 years Shih Tzus often live.
Grooming needs for the Pug Zu depend on what type of coat they inherit. Longer, fluffier coats need brushing every day or two to prevent mats. Shorter, slicker coats may only need a quick brushing a couple times per week. Either way, a bath every month or so will keep them clean and minimize any doggy odor. Regular nail trims and ear cleanings are also a must.
Those adorable wrinkles need special attention too. Wipe out the skin folds on your Pug Zu‘s face a few times a week with a damp cloth or dog-safe grooming wipe. This will get rid of moisture, dirt, and bacteria that can collect and cause irritation or infection.
Fun Facts About Pug Zu
Pug Zus have many nicknames, including Pug Tzu, Shih Pug, Pugshih, and Pugzu Shihpug. But they always make devoted companions, no matter what you call them!
[INSERT PHOTO OF PUG ZU SLEEPING UNDER BLANKET]Actor Gerard Butler has called Pugs "the most loving, loyal, fun, and silly" dogs. Given how much Pug Zus take after their Pug parents, those adjectives definitely apply to these crossbreeds as well!
[INSERT PHOTO OF PUG ZU PLAYING WITH TOY]Thanks to their portability and loving nature, Pug Zus have become popular therapy dogs. They can easily sit on a lap to provide stress relief and comfort in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other facilities. The Puggerfly Pug Rescue of Florida has a "Hug a Pug" program where Pugs and Pug mixes like Pug Zus visit children‘s hospitals to snuggle with patients.
[INSERT PHOTO OF PUG NAPPING]Speaking of napping, many Pug Zu owners report that their dogs are world-class sleepers and snorers! Must be the Pug in them. Expect your Pug Zu to doze off anytime, anywhere – and be loud about it. Earplugs for bedtime are recommended!
Is the Pug Zu Right for You?
Pug Zus are one of the most charming and endearing designer dog breeds around. They combine the comical personality of the Pug with the portable size and pretty coat of the Shih Tzu to create the ultimate lapdog and companion.
Their small size and moderate exercise needs make Pug Zus a good fit for many different homes and lifestyles, from studio apartments to spacious houses with yards. They generally do well with other pets and children. Their affectionate, happy-go-lucky temperaments mean they get along with just about everyone!
The ideal Pug Zu owner is someone who wants a constant companion and is able to spend lots of quality time with their dog. Pug Zus do not do well left alone for long periods, as they can develop separation anxiety and destructive behaviors.
Pug Zus also require a decent amount of grooming, especially if they have longer coats. They can be prone to certain health issues, so prospective owners should be prepared for potential vet bills. Pet insurance can help with this!
If you are looking for a true companion dog to share your life and home, it‘s hard to go wrong with a Pug Zu. Their clownish antics will keep you laughing, and their devotion will melt your heart. If you can handle some snoring, a bit of stubborness, and lots of snuggle sessions, a Pug Zu may be your perfect match!
Choosing a responsible breeder is key to getting a healthy, well-socialized Pug Zu puppy. Look for a breeder who does genetic health testing on the parents and raises the puppies in their home with lots of enrichment and early socialization. Avoid pet stores and online ads, which may be fronts for puppy mills. The Pug Dog Club of America and American Shih Tzu Club both have breeder referral programs and information to help you find an ethical source for a Pug Zu.
You can also check with Pug, Shih Tzu, and general dog rescues, as Pug Zus and other designer mixes sometimes end up in shelters and foster homes. Adopting an older dog can be very rewarding!
[INSERT PHOTO OF AUTHOR WITH PUG ZU]As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I‘ve met many Pug Zus over the years. They never fail to brighten my day with their silly, sweet, snuggly ways! If you have the time and love to give, a Pug Zu will be one of the most devoted best friends you could ask for.
