Frug : (French Bulldog and Pug Mix)- The Ultimate Guide

Are you interested in a Frug (French Bulldog Pug mix) but wondering if it’s the right dog for you?

Discover interesting facts about this hybrid dog taking over the canine world.

Ready?

Let’s get started.

Breed Overview 

A frug may be small, but it booms with personality. It’s a highly playful and adaptable pup full of cheekiness, affection, and love for life. The table below gives a quick summary of this hybrid dog:

CharacterFrug
Other namesFrenchy pug, Pug bulldog, Frenchie pug, Frenchton pug, French Bulldog pug mix.
Dog breed groupMixed breed
PurposeCompanionship
AKC RecognitionNo
SizeSmall
Height11-15 inches
Weight15-30 pounds
Coat typeDouble, short, smooth, silky
Coat colorCream, white, fawn, black, brindle, brown,or tan
TemperamentSocial, loyal, affectionate, devoted, and lively.
Grooming needsModerate
TrainabilityLow but not impossible
Exercise needs20-40 minutes daily
Child friendlinessHigh
Dog friendlinessHigh
HealthRelatively good
Lifespan11-15 years
Puppy cost$1,500-$2,500

What is a Frug?

A Frug is a hybrid dog produced by crossing a French Bulldog and a Pug. Also known as a Frenchie pug, this designer dog brings out the best features of Frenchies and pugs. This small dog is charming and loyal, making it an ideal family pet.

Parent Breeds

To understand the kind of a dog a frug is, it’s important to learn about its parents. A Frug dog is a mix of a French Bulldog and a pug. 

Both are miniature dogs with stocky and muscular builds. Frenchies and pugs are also quite similar in terms of temperament and personality.

Consequently, a Frenchie and Pug mix will have the same personality as its parents. You can expect a Frug to be lively, friendly, affectionate, and playful like its parents.

While little is known about the exact origin of a Frenchie pug mix, its parents have rich histories.

French Bulldog

  • The Frenchie has its origin in England in the late 1800s.
  • The French Bulldog is a descendant of the English Bulldog, initially bred for bullbaiting.
  • When bullbaiting was banned, the Bulldogs were bred with smaller dogs to reduce their size.
  • The smaller bulldogs were famous among the lacemakers living in Nottingham and were considered a mascot for them.
  • The bulldogs first appeared in France in the mid-19th century when the lacemakers moved from Nottingham and settled in Normandy, France, following the industrial revolution and brought their little dogs along.
  • In France, the bulldogs gained popularity with the elite members of the French community, especially the fancy ladies.
  • Later, the toy bulldogs were crossed with Parisian ratters to create the French Bulldog we know today.
  • In 2020, French Bulldogs were ranked by the AKC as the 4th most popular dog breed in the US.
  • In 2022 French Bulldogs were ranked 1st by AKC.
  • The Frenchie is a small, stocky, muscular dog described as playful, affectionate, smart, and highly adaptable.

Pug

  • The origin of pugs can be traced back to China more than 2000 years ago.
  • Their history dates back to 206BC -200 AD during the Han Dynasty. These dogs were owned and valued by emperors who gave them luxurious housing and soldiers to guard them.
  • They are among the oldest breeds today and are considered distant relatives of the short-haired Pekingese.
  • Dutch traders later introduced these dogs into Europe in the late 1500s and 1600 when China began trading with Europe. 
  • Pugs are named after a Marmoset monkey as they share the same facial expression.
  • In Europe, they quickly became a favorite pet for royalties. They were even designated as the official of the House of Orange, the royal family of the Netherlands, after a Pug allegedly saved the life of Prince William. 
  • Pugs continued to rise in popularity worldwide due to their affectionate demeanor. The AKC rated pugs at number 28 out of 193 breeds of the most popular dogs in America.

Frug

  • The exact origin of the frug remains largely unknown.
  • However, you can expect a frug to make an excellent companion dog like its parents.
  • It’s difficult to tell exactly how a frug will look as its characteristics depend on the parent it takes most after. 
  • This designer dog combines the best features of both French Bulldogs and pugs.

Appearance

With a pug’s wrinkled face and the Frenchie’s big bat-like ears, a Frug has a face that perfectly combines the features of both of its parents, giving it a unique, cute, and cheeky appearance. 

Just like its parents, a frug has a flat facial structure.

Frugs’ small, muscular build makes them stand out from other popular hybrids. These dogs will surely melt you with their wide smile and large bulging eyes. Frugs have a compact build, short curly tails, and tiny paws.

Pug and Frenchie mix size, height, and weight 

A Frug is a small, compact, but muscular dog. Female Frugs stand 10-15 inches tall, while male frugs are 11-15 inches tall. Male Frugs weigh 13-30 pounds more than their female counterparts at 11-26 pounds.

A Frug is stockier than a pug but less compact and square than a French Bulldog.

Pug Bulldog mix coat colors and types 

Frenchie pug mixes come in different coat colors and textures. The coat may range from short to medium in length. A frug’s coat can be soft, fine, glossy, and silky-smooth.

A frug’s coat color will depend on the parent it takes most after, but will mostly be found in fawn, brindle, cream, black, brown, and fawn brindle, among others.

Blue French Pug 

A blue French Pug comes in a unique dark silver-grayish coat giving it a striking ashy blue appearance. Blue coatings in dog breeds have a more grayish hue than sky-blue. 

Blue French pug mixes are more popular than regular colored ones, making them more costly and harder to find.

Black Frug

This Frug comes in a solid black colored coat, giving it a mysterious and elegant look that many adore.

French Bulldog Pug Mix brindle 

A brindle frug is easily recognized by its tiger-striped coat consisting of alternating patterns of darker and light colors. 

Temperament

Similar to both of its parents, a frug is a highly social dog that loves to be the center of attention. Frugs are known to be cheerful, lively, and exciting dogs that bring lots of joy and enjoyment to their families. They are also loving, affectionate, and fiercely loyal to their families, making them great pets.

With their cuddly and playful nature and natural affinity for children, Frenchie pug mixes make excellent companions for children.

While Frugs are loyal, they tend to be extremely clingy, making them prone to separation anxiety.

Due to their flat facial structures and squishy faces, Frenchie and pug mixes tend to snore and snort loudly.

Do Pug Frenchie mix make great family pets?

Yes, Pug Frenchie mixes are loving, affectionate, and fiercely loyal, making them an ideal addition to any family. These dogs love spending time with their families and will always be on your side.

Additionally, Frugs are playful and can get along well with children of all ages. Fugs are social butterflies that love playing around with other dogs and pets, making them great for multi-pet households.

Are Frenchie Pug mix affectionate dogs?

Yes, Frenchie pug mixes are highly affectionate dogs that love to follow you around. These little pups thrive on attention. Due to their clingy nature, Frugs can’t cope with being left alone for lengthy durations. Leaving these pups alone for a long time makes them prone to separation anxiety, leading to anxiety and destructive behavior.

Nutritional Needs 

Generally, dogs need to be fed in proportion to their size. Frenchie and pug mixes should be fed on food formulated for small-breed dogs. More specifically, the food you give your frug dog depends on weight, energy level, and health condition.

It’s important to monitor your dog’s food intake in quantity to avoid obesity-related diseases. Being small dogs, the Frenchie and Pug mixes don’t need a lot of food. Ideally, you should give your Frenchie pug mix one cup of food split into two meals daily.

Is Pug French Bulldog mix hypoallergenic?

No, Frenchie Pug mixes are not hypoallergenic. These dogs shed moderately throughout the year, thus not a good choice for people with canine sensitivities.

Grooming Needs & Shedding

Frugs are considered low-maintenance dogs in terms of grooming needs. Thanks to their short coats that don’t shed much, frugs are very easy to care for. All they need is weekly brushing once or twice to remove any loose hair and keep their coats looking sleek and healthy.

Frugs only need occasional baths, usually not more than twice monthly, to keep them smelling fresh. Remember to brush your dog’s teeth daily using an enzymatic doggy toothpaste for good dental health. You should also regularly trim your Frug’s nails and clean their ears often to keep infections at bay.

Do French Bulldogs mix with Pug Shed?

Yes, Frenchie Pug mixes shed. However, they don’t shed as much due to their short coats. Weekly brushing is enough to keep dead hairs at bay and keep them healthy and clean.

Health Issue and Lifespan 

A Frenchie Pug mix is a relatively healthy dog with an expected 11-15 years lifespan. However, being a mixed breed, a Frug is prone to some health conditions that affect its parents. You should look out for these health issues in a Frenchie Pug mix.

  • Eye diseases: If the Frug inherits the bulging eyes of its Pug parent, it will be susceptible to eye issues such as progressive retinal atrophy, corneal ulcers, proptosis, and general eye injuries.
  • Skin allergies: Both pugs and Frenchies are prone to skin allergies. The offspring of the two dogs are likely to have skin issues such as demodectic mange, yeast infections, and dermatitis.
  • Breathing issues: Frugs are susceptible to breathing issues like brachycephalic airway syndrome and stenotic nares due to their flat facial structures.
  • Patella luxation: Frugs are prone to patellar luxation, a condition that involves the dislocation of kneecaps. This condition causes pain, instability, immobility, and lameness. It can also lead to ligament destruction and other serious issues.
  • Ear infections: If a frug inherits the Frenchie’s large ears, it’s likely to have ear infections as dirt can get trapped in the ears.

Exercise Needs 

Just like its parents, Frugs are playful and full of energy. As such, they need some exercises to keep them healthy and fit. Ideally, 20-40 minutes of exercise daily will keep these pups fit. A leisure stroll around the neighborhood and daily walks will do for these pups.

However, be keen not to over-exert frugs to avoid breathing issues. Because of their flat faces, Frenchie pug mixes can often experience breathing difficulties during exercise, especially in warm weather.  

Training 

Frugs are intelligent and eager to please; training them can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, these little pups have a stubborn streak, making training challenging.

It’s thus best to use positive reinforcement training techniques such as treats and words of praise to motivate your Frenchie Pug mix and reinforce good behavior. Early training from a young age can also make the process easier and more successful.

With patience, consistency, and some creativity, your Frug will easily grasp basic commands and instructions.

As Family Dogs

Due to their affectionate and loving nature, Frugs excel as family dogs. They are extremely friendly and sociable dogs that relate well with all people and other dogs and pets. They adore spending time with their owners and families. They are also fiercely loyal and protective of their families. They are gentle and have a natural love for children of all ages.

French Bulldog Pug mix living conditions 

French Bulldog and Pug mixes are highly adaptable dogs that can fit any household, whether in a large yard or an apartment with limited space. Due to their compact size, frugs are excellent choices for apartment dwellers.

However, due to their clingy nature, Frugs will do best in a home with always a member around.

Leaving your Frug inside the house for a long time can lead to severe stress. It’s thus best to let it play in the backyard. Ensure the yard is fenced to ensure your dog’s safety.

Additionally, Frugs can’t cope with extremely hot or cold temperatures. Ensure you have a heater or air conditioner to maintain their optimal body temperature.

As Guard Dogs 

Frugs are extremely friendly and get along well with everyone, including strangers. As such, they don’t make good watchdogs. However, these dogs are fiercely loyal and protective, making them excellent guard dogs.

Price

The price of Frenchie pug mixes depends on the breeder’s reputation, location, and specific dog characteristics. However, on average, you can expect to pay between $1500-$2500 to acquire a Frug.

Besides the upfront costs, there are ongoing expenses that you should put into consideration. These include food costs, vet costs, grooming supplies, toys, and other medical-related costs, which can add up to significant amounts.

Where to find them? 

You can get a Frug from a reputable breeder. Alternatively, you can find one in local shelters or from rescue groups for French Bulldogs and Pugs. 

If you purchase a Frug from a breeder, look for one with a good reputation and positive reviews. The table below shows some of the breeders of Frenchie Pug mixes: 

BreederContacts
Wag! (UK)Website: wagwalking.com
Frug Puppies(Australia)Website: frugs4sale.com.au
Greenfield PuppiesWebsite: greenfieldpuppies.com
PrelovedWebsite: preloved.co.uk
That Doggy in the WindowWebsite: thatdoggyinthewindow.com

Rescue & Shelters

You can also adopt a Frenchie pug mix from a rescue center or shelter. These institutions take in maltreated, homeless, stray, or abused Frugs and attempt to find them a suitable home. 

Adopting a frug from a rescue center or shelter is much cheaper than purchasing from a breeder.

French Bulldog Pug Puppies

Bringing a new puppy home is a serious commitment with many responsibilities. The following are some of the things you should know before bringing a new frug puppy home:

  • You’ll need to puppy-proof your home to make it safer for your puppy.
  • Avoid electrical cords, shoes, wires, pins, and anything else that may harm your puppy.
  • You’ll need to remain patient and consistent while potty training your frug as they can be difficult to train.
  • These pups are full of energy, and you’ll need to have the same energy when bonding with your pup.
  • A frug puppy will need your constant attention, which you should be ready to provide.

French Bulldog Pug: Pros and Cons 

The following are the advantages and disadvantages of owning a French Bulldog Pug mix.

Pros

  • Frugs are affectionate, loving, and highly sociable.
  • They are great with kids 
  • They get along well with other dogs and pets.
  • They don’t need a lot of food.
  • They are well suited for small spaces due to their small size.

Cons 

  • They are prone to separation if left alone for long periods.
  • They are often stubborn, making them hard to train.
  • Frugs can be aggressive to strangers if not properly trained at a young age.
  • Frugs can be very lazy at times.

Frug: In a Nut Shell

A Frug is a cross between a Frenchie and a Pug. This petite hybrid dog is loving, affectionate, and cuddly. It’s also fiercely loyal and devoted, making it an excellent family pet. A Frenchie pug mix is a social butterfly that is friendly with everyone, including strangers and other dogs. Additionally, this dog does not cost much in terms of grooming.

Further reading French Bulldog vs. Pug- Everything You Need to Know.

What is a Frug dog mixed with? 

A frug is a mix of a French Bulldog and a pug.

What is a French Bulldog Pug mix called? 

A French Bulldog Pug mix is called a frug dog, Frenchie pug mix, Frenchy pug, Pug Bulldog, or Frenchton Pug.

How big does the French Bulldog Pug mix get? 

A fully grown French Bulldog mix stands between 11-15 inches and weighs 15-30 pounds.

What is a Frug dog personality? 

A frug is affectionate, loving, cuddly, loyal, playful, adaptable, social, and lively. This dog is also quite stubborn.

Are Frugs healthier than pugs? 

Yes, like any other hybrid dog, frugs are considered healthier than their parents, one of which is a pug. 

What are some facts about Frug dogs?

Frugs are extremely clingy, making them prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They can also be stubborn and hard to train.

What are Pug’s weaknesses? 

Frugs are extremely clingy, making them prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They can also be stubborn and hard to train.

Do frugs have health problems? 

Yes, being hybrid dos, frugs can be prone to health issues affecting their parents. They are thus susceptible to ear infections, breathing problems, eye issues, and allergies.

Why are pugs so special? 

Their even and stable temperament, great charm, and outgoing and loving disposition make them special dogs.

Which dog breed has the best personality?

Pugs, French Bulldogs, labrador retrievers, Irish setters, English setters, cocker spaniels, boxers, and golden retrievers are among the dog breeds with the best personality.

Are Frug dogs smart? 

Yes, Frugs are smart dogs that are easy to train. However, they are also very stubborn, which makes training them quite challenging.

Can Frug dogs be left alone? 

No, Frugs should not be left alone for long periods. Due to their extremely affectionate nature and strong attachment to their families, leaving these dogs alone puts them at risk of suffering from separation anxiety and triggering aggressive and destructive behavior.

Are Frug dogs hard to train? 

Yes, while frug dogs are smart dogs, they also have a stubborn nature, making them hard to train. As such, you must remain patient and consistent when training them.

Do Frug dogs bark a lot? 

Yes, due to their protective nature, frug dogs have high barking tendencies, especially when they perceive any danger or threat to their families.

Can Frug dogs swim? 

Although frugs can swim, they don’t make good swimmers. Their short and squished-in snouts make breathing difficult while swimming, putting them at risk of drowning.

Are Frug dogs expensive? 

Yes, frug dogs are among the expensive dog breeds, with prices ranging between $1000-$2500.

Do Frug dogs have breathing problems? 

Yes, frugs have breathing problems, referred to as brachycephalic airway syndrome, due to their flat facial structures with short and squished-in snouts.

What is the difference between a Pug and a frug? 

The main difference between a pug and a frug is that the latter is stockier than the former. 

Is the French Bulldog Pug ( Frug) Mix right for me? 

Not sure whether the French Bulldog Pug mix is right for you?

Well, let’s make it simpler for you.

A Frug might be the right dog for you if……

  • You are looking for a great dog with children of all ages.
  • Want a low-maintenance dog with low grooming and care needs?
  • If you want a petite dog that doesn’t need a large space.
  • If you are looking for a furry companion who loves cuddling on the couch with you.

A Frug might not be the right dog for you if……

  • If you want a silent dog or a dog with low barking tendencies.
  • If you are not ready to deal with a dog with breathing issues.
  • You want a dog that can make a good watchdog.

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