Pugwich -- Pug X Norwich Terrier

		Pugwich
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			China <> Great Britain -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Pugwich

The Pugwich is a sociable, affectionate dog of small to medium size that has a cheerful disposition and loves to play. They make ideal pets with their confidence and outgoing nature. Active and fun-loving, these little dogs will always be an appetizer for a game or a cuddle. They maintain close bonds with their families and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. These dogs love to be in the middle of the action, and they don't care what you do or where you go as long as they can accompany you. The combination of the Pug and the Norwich Terrier produces a well rounded little dog with a big personality. Be warned that they can also have a stubborn streak, but with positive interaction and lots of praise and rewards, you can get around this minor flaw. All in all, the Pugwich is an adorable, affectionate and totally loyal little dog that will fit in perfectly with your lifestyle.

History of the Pugwich

The Pugwich is a rare hybrid breed, so we have to look to the parent dogs to determine its lineage characteristics.

	A little of the Pug
	The Pug originated in China and was prized by Chinese emperors. In the late 1500s, when China began trading with European countries, the Pug became well known. The Pug quickly won hearts and became the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland after a Pug is said to have saved the life of William, Prince of Orange after giving and warning that the Spanish were approaching. The breed arrived in England in the early 1800s. Two pure-bred Pugs were brought to England from China and used to strengthen the Pug line. A puppy named Click, the first born of the union, was an exceptional dog and is credited with improving the breed as a whole. Queen Victoria had several Pugs and a breeding program for their development. The Pug first appeared in the United States after the Civil War and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. This royal little dog continues to be popular to this day.

	Standard of the Pug


	A little of the Norwich Terrier
	The Norwich Terrier is a feisty, active little dog with a great attitude that originated in East Anglia, England. Norfolk and Norwich Terriers were once the same breed but had different ear types, and both were called Norwich Terriers. In 1964, English breeders separated them, and the Norwich became the dog with erect ears, while the Norfolk was the dog with floppy ears. Another difference with the breed is that the Norwich was rounded and rather stocky. They were used on farms to control rats in barns and chase foxes from their dens. Small in size, they were ideal for driving game from their dens so that hunters could chase it with their hounds. Although it's not clear when they arrived in the United States, the American Kennel Club recognized them in 1979.

	Standard of the Norwich Terrier

Appearance of the Pugwich

The Pugwich has a small to medium-sized body and short, strong legs with small, rounded paws. Their faces can vary in appearance depending on the genetic influence of the parent dogs. The muzzle can vary from the flat face of the Pug to the fine, pointed muzzle of the Norwich Terrier. The eyes are round and dark, sparkling with anticipation. Ears can be erect or triangular and floppy. Sometimes the Pugwich inherits the Pug's black mask and wrinkled skin, but this depends on its genetics. The tail is of medium length and can curl over the back. The short coat can be soft or wiry, and can be a single or double coat. Attractive to look at, gentle in nature and with enough energy for the whole family, this affectionate, sociable dog is a truly loyal companion.

Temperament of the Pugwich

Playful and friendly, the Pugwich is a lively, inquisitive little dog that makes an ideal companion and loyal pet. They adore children and will happily play with them for days on end. These dogs are quite active and will follow you wherever you go, even if it's just outside to check the mailbox, and they'll treat it as a huge adventure. Their enthusiasm for life is contagious and you'll never be alone with a Pugwich around. Like most dogs, they're ready to please, but can get bored easily, something to remember during training. If it's not fun, it will take longer for your Pugwich to learn, as its concentration will wander. This habit can be frustrating, but a simple remedy is to keep training sessions fun and, when they start to lose interest, switch to a game to liven things up. Lots of praise and small rewards go a long way to getting the Pugwich to do what you ask. These little dogs will warn you when strangers are nearby, but are generally calm dogs. They adapt well to apartment living, but need daily walks to meet their exercise needs. A home with a secure yard will be a haven to explore, and your little watchdog will take possession and get to know every inch of it. The Terrier influence can produce a strong hunting instinct in your Pugwich, so when you're out and about, it would be best to keep him on a leash, as even a low-flying bird is the signal to hunt. With its pretty dark mask, a few gentle wrinkles and winning ways, the Pugwich is a real contender when it comes to a family dog or constant companion.

Needs and activities of the Pugwich

The Pugwich is an active little dog that likes to be in the know. Whatever you do, they want to help you. Although they get plenty of exercise simply because they're busy, they'll still need a daily walk or two if you have the energy. Keep them on a leash though, as their hunting instincts are high and they can easily run off after a small furry animal and disappear from sight. A daily walk or play in the secure dog park is an ideal way to socialize your dog. As they meet other dogs and people, it builds their confidence and produces a dog with a well-rounded character. Children will love these active little playmates, just teach them to be gentle with a puppy, as rough play can damage small dogs. All in all, the Pugwich is an active, adorable little powerhouse and a loyal, loving companion.

Maintenance of the Pugwich

The Pugwich will benefit from regular grooming sessions to keep them looking their best. A good brushing once a week should suffice, unless they have the dense double coat of the Norwich Terrier, which will require almost daily brushing. This is the ideal time to check your dog for wounds or infections, and treat him accordingly. One area that needs frequent checking is a dog's ears. These can be infected by an accumulation of debris or foreign bodies such as pods. Gentle wiping with a damp cloth, followed by careful drying of the ear, should keep them in good health. The Pugwich will normally wear its nails naturally during its busy day, but just check if it needs a light trim. Then, a quick brushing of their canine pearly whites will keep their teeth shiny and their breath sweet.