Cocker Pug
An Introduction to the Cocker Pug
A Cocker Pug is a hybrid dog that is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Pug. Hybrid dogs are dogs where the breeders combine two different types of dogs. These are sometimes referred to as designer dogs because breeders are trying to create breed combining the qualities of two different species.
Hybrid dogs like the Cocker Pug are not always 50 percent Cocker Spaniel and 50 percent Pug. Since breeders use multi-generational crosses, it is possible to get a Cocker Pug which is 75 percent of one and 25 percent of the other. Even with a 50-50 split it is hard to predict how a hybrid dog will turn out. So with variations in percentage of the different DNA strains, owners who choose hybrid dogs will always have to be prepared for the unexpected. But we can set some realistic expectations by looking at the Cocker Spaniel and the Pug.
Cocker Spaniels have for long been favorites as family pets because of their easy going temperament and well-deserved reputations as friendly companions. Animated stardom from ‘Lady and the Tramp’ probably also contributed to the fact that the Cocker Spaniel was US’s most popular pet for many years running. These dogs, which are originally from Spain, were developed in Britain as sporting dogs. Typically a Cocker Spaniel is 15 inches to the top of the shoulder blades and has a medium-length, double coat. This small dog has distinctive long ears and the characteristic wagging tail.
Males of the species are a little bigger than the females. The Cocker Spaniel is a popular show dog. The Cocker Spaniel is a gentle and sweet-tempered dog that is friendly and affectionate. Cocker Spaniels need a moderate amount of exercise and owners have to always treat them with gentleness and sensitivity for this is not a dog that does well with very strict or aggressive disciplining techniques. This does not mean that the dog should not undergo obedience training just that it needs to be done without breaking the spirit of the Cocker Spaniel. This is an easy dog to take care off as there are no known health issues with this breed. A Cocker Spaniel owner should be prepared to deal with ear cleaning and maintenance and the well-known swinging ears of the breed are prone to infections. The coat will also need some attention as the Cocker Spaniel loves to run through bushes and so seeds and other natural debris can get caught in the silky hair. Without proper grooming this can get matted and lead to skin troubles.
What can we expect from the Pug part of the Cocker Pug mix? The pug is a muscular and compact dog whose ideal weight should be 14 to 18 pounds. The Pug is originally from the Orient and its tail and head are it most popular and distinctive physical characteristics. This breed has a loose skin and those famous wrinkles on the face which give it a wise look. The folded ears of the Pug tend to brush the side of its face. The tail of the Pug is usually a tight curl. These dogs have a fine undercoat and a shiny outer coat. These are popular pets because they are playful and even-tempered and generally seen as easy maintenance. They need a moderate amount of exercise. Pugs are known to be vulnerable to some health problems because of their shape and size. They can have breathing problems, dental difficulties and are known to be sensitive to heat.
Given these facts about the Cocker Spaniel and the Pug it is safe to say that the Cocker Pug will be a small dog. It is likely to be friendly and even-tempered. It will need a firm and gentle training regimen. It is likely to make a great family pet and can be expected to be a good companion. The owner will have to be good about taking care of the grooming of the dog and schedule regular vet appointments. Other than these broad generalities, the actual temperament and shape and size of the dog will depend very much on the actual parents used in the breeding of your Cocker Pug.