Pugshire
A tiny, affectionate cross of the charming Pug and the spirited Yorkie. Playful and companionable, but small and variable in coat and face shape; some may inherit the Pug's breathing sensitivity.
Pugshire scorecard
Overview
The Pugshire is a small companion crossbreed produced by mating a Pug with a Yorkshire Terrier. Usually around 18–28 cm tall and 3–8 kg in weight, it combines the affectionate, comical nature of the Pug with the bold, lively character and finer coat of the Yorkie. The result is typically a small, devoted lapdog with plenty of personality.
The Pugshire is a designer crossbreed, not a recognised breed: there is no Kennel Club or FCI standard, no registry and no guarantee of how an individual will look or behave. Appearance, coat, size and temperament vary widely depending on which parent dominates, and some individuals inherit the Pug's flat face along with its breathing risks. An honest understanding of both parents is essential.
Good to know — a Pugshire is flat-friendly and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Pugshire has no documented history, founding breeder or lineage; it is a modern designer cross best understood through its parents.
The Pug is an ancient Chinese toy breed bred as a companion to nobility and later beloved across Europe, including in Victorian Britain; it is brachycephalic, which underlies many of its health issues. The Yorkshire Terrier was developed in 19th-century northern England, particularly Yorkshire, where working people bred small terriers to catch rats in mills and mines before the breed became a fashionable Victorian companion. The Pugshire therefore blends a laid-back, people-loving companion with a feisty, alert former working terrier.
Temperament & family fit
Pugshires are usually affectionate, lively and attention-loving, often combining the Pug's friendly, clownish warmth with the Yorkie's confidence and spirit. Many bond closely with their owners and enjoy being involved in everything the family does.
Individual temperament varies. The Yorkshire Terrier influence can bring boldness, alertness and a tendency to bark, plus a degree of terrier stubbornness, while the Pug side tends towards easy-going companionship. Both parents are very people-oriented, so Pugshires often dislike being left alone and can develop separation-related behaviours. Early socialisation helps temper any wariness or excessive barking and produces a friendlier, calmer adult.
- Families with older, respectful children
- Committed first-time owners
- Flats or houses with daily exercise
Training & intelligence
Pugshires are bright and can learn well, but the terrier and Pug sides both bring a stubborn streak, so consistency and patience are important. Reward-based training with small treats and praise works best, and short, engaging sessions suit a small dog that may tire or overheat.
Priorities include managing barking inherited from the Yorkie side, careful house-training (which can be slow in toy breeds), and avoiding 'small-dog syndrome'. If the dog has a flatter Pug-type face, keep training gentle and avoid exertion in heat. Early socialisation reduces the risk of nervousness or snappiness.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Keep sessions short, calm and consistent
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Pugshire typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat type varies from the Pug's short, dense, shedding coat to the Yorkie's long, fine, silky coat, with many Pugshires in between. Longer coats need regular brushing and may need trimming, while shorter coats shed more. If a Pug-type face with wrinkles is present, the folds must be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. Regular nail trimming, ear care and dental care are important, as small breeds are very prone to dental disease.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding a Pugshire
Feed a complete, good-quality food appropriate to the dog's size and activity, carefully measured to prevent obesity. Weight control matters because Pugs gain weight easily and excess weight worsens any breathing and joint problems. Small-breed kibble suits their small mouths, and dental-friendly feeding helps reduce the tartar build-up both parent breeds are prone to. Follow the manufacturer's and your vet's guidance, account for any treats used in training, and check your dog's body condition regularly so portions can be adjusted before weight creeps on.
A toy breed
An adult Pugshire typically weighs 3–8 kg, so a healthy Pugshire eats a small amount — often under 100g of dry food a day compared with other breeds. Every feeding guide on a bag is written per kilo of body weight, not per breed — start there, then adjust to the dog in front of you.
Life stage
A toy breed is usually done growing at 10–12 months, which is roughly when a puppy food has finished its job. With a typical lifespan of 12–15 years, there is a long adult stretch in the middle; switch to a senior food when your vet thinks it is worth it rather than on a birthday.
Small mouths, crowded teeth
Smaller breeds get dental disease more often than big ones, largely because the same number of teeth are packed into a shorter jaw. Kibble size is worth checking, and a dental chew counts towards the daily 10% of calories from treats.
How much should a Pugshire weigh?
Adult 3–8 kgfully grown at 10–12 months
| Age | Stage | Typical weight | Of adult size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Just home | 0.5–1.5 kg | 18% |
| 3 months | Young puppy | 0.9–2.4 kg | 30% |
| 6 months | Growing fast | 1.8–4.7 kg | 59% |
| 10–12 months | Fully grown | 3–8 kg | 100% |
A guide, from the same rule of thumb our puppy growth predictor uses — each age is that share of the way to maturity for a toy breed. Puppies grow fastest early, so a real puppy usually sits a little above the middle rows. Weigh yours and ask your vet if the number worries you.
Complete dog foods that suit a Pugshire
Complete foods from our range, matched to a Pugshire's size band and what the breed typically needs. Stock levels and delivery dates are live on each product.
Pedigree Can in Jelly Puppy 6 Pack
Complete Pedigree puppy food in jelly with chicken, lamb and poultry recipes
£10.15
Forthglade Cold Pressed Natural Turkey
Cold-pressed turkey kibble for dogs from 2 months, soft enough to mix with water for young pups
£45.99
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Chicken
Cold-pressed grain-free chicken food with fruit and botanicals, in three bag sizes
From£16.99
Forthglade Complete Meal Lightly Baked Chicken
A grain-free complete dry food for adult dogs, lightly baked and built on 50% chicken
From£12.49
Forthglade Cold Pressed Small Dog Turkey
Cold-pressed grain-free dry food for small dogs and puppies, built on turkey
£16.99
Forthglade Complete Meal Lightly Baked Lamb
A lightly baked complete dry food, 50% lamb, for adult dogs of any breed
From£12.49
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Turkey
Grain-free cold-pressed turkey kibble for dogs, gentle on sensitive stomachs
£69.69
Forthglade British Classics Chicken Family Lunch
Complete Forthglade wet dog food with 75% chicken in a 395G tray
£2.45
Harringtons Puppy Turkey & Rice
Complete turkey puppy food with 30% protein and feeding bands by adult weight
£6.49
Harringtons Adult Dog Turkey Veg
Complete dry food for adult dogs with turkey, chicken and salmon oil, 21% protein
From£3.39
Harringtons Just 6 Dry Dog Food Lamb
Grain-free lamb dry dog food in 2KG and 12KG sizes, with size-specific formulas
From£13.99
Pugshire health & costs
Before bringing a Pugshire home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£200–300 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£12–28 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£120–300 / year
Occasional pro + home brushing
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
As a crossbreed, the Pugshire can inherit problems from either parent, and buyers should be ready for any condition common to Pugs or Yorkshire Terriers. Crossbreeding does not guarantee better health.
From the Pug side, the main risks are Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) in flat-faced individuals, prominent-eye injuries and ulcers, and skin-fold dermatitis. From the Yorkie side, concerns include patellar luxation, collapsing trachea, dental disease, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease and a liver condition called portosystemic shunt. Responsible breeders should health-test both parents and avoid the most extreme flat-faced individuals.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — breathing trouble and heat intolerance in flat-faced individuals
- Collapsing trachea — windpipe weakness causing a honking cough; use a harness not a collar
- Patellar luxation — slipping kneecaps causing intermittent lameness
- Dental disease — crowded small mouths prone to tartar and tooth loss
- Portosystemic (liver) shunt — a Yorkie-side congenital blood-flow defect affecting growth and the liver
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease — degeneration of the hip joint in small breeds, causing pain and lameness
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Pugshire; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Pugshire puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Pugshire
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Affectionate, playful and apartment-friendly
- Compact, characterful companion
Things to consider
- May inherit Pug breathing/heat sensitivity
- Coat and appearance vary; can be vocal
Compare the Pugshire
See how the Pugshire measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Pugshire?
The Pugshire is a small companion crossbreed produced by mating a Pug with a Yorkshire Terrier. Usually around 18–28 cm tall and 3–8 kg, it combines the Pug's affectionate, comical nature with the Yorkie's bold, lively character and finer coat. It is a designer crossbreed, not a recognised breed, so appearance and temperament vary.
How big do Pugshires get?
Pugshires are toy-sized dogs, typically around 18–28 cm tall and just 3–8 kg in weight. Size, coat and looks vary widely depending on which parent dominates. Because they are so small, care is needed around very young children to avoid accidental injury to the dog.
What is the lifespan of a Pugshire?
Pugshires typically live around 12–15 years. Lifespan depends on genetics, weight and overall health, and any inherited Pug breathing problems can affect quality of life. Keeping the dog slim, managing heat carefully and buying from a breeder who health-tests both parents support a longer, healthier life.
Do Pugshires bark a lot?
They can. The Yorkshire Terrier influence brings alertness and a tendency to bark, along with some terrier stubbornness, while the Pug side is more easy-going. Early socialisation and consistent, reward-based training help manage barking. Both parents are very people-oriented, and a bored or lonely Pugshire is more likely to be vocal.
How much grooming does a Pugshire need?
It depends on the coat. Pugshire coats range from the Pug's short, dense, shedding coat to the Yorkie's long, fine, silky coat. Longer coats need regular brushing and may need trimming, while shorter coats shed more. If a Pug-type wrinkled face is present, the folds must be kept clean and dry to prevent infection.
How much exercise does a Pugshire need?
Modest. Short daily walks plus play are usually enough, adjusted to the individual. A more Pug-type dog with a flat face must not be over-exercised, especially in warm weather, while a Yorkie-type dog has more stamina. They suit flats and smaller homes provided they get daily activity and company.
What health problems can affect a Pugshire?
From the Pug side: Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome in flat-faced dogs, prominent-eye injuries and ulcers, and skin-fold dermatitis. From the Yorkie side: patellar luxation, collapsing trachea, dental disease, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease and a liver condition called portosystemic shunt. Crossbreeding offers no health guarantee, so choose health-tested parents.
Are Pugshires prone to dental problems?
Yes. Like most small and toy breeds, Pugshires are very prone to dental disease, and both parent breeds are inclined to tartar build-up. Regular tooth brushing, dental-friendly feeding and routine veterinary dental checks are important. Small-breed kibble suits their small mouths and helps keep teeth in better condition.
Are Pugshires good with children?
Fine with sensible, older children. As a general guide, Pugshires tend to be fine with sensible, older children. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Pugshire need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Pugshire needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Pugshires shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Pugshires easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Pugshires are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Pugshires bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Pugshires good with other dogs?
Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Pugshires suit flats or smaller homes?
Flat-friendly. A Pugshire can adapt to flat living as long as it gets its daily exercise and company.
Sources
- The Kennel Club — Pug and Yorkshire Terrier breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/
- PDSA — Toy-dog and brachycephalic health advice: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice
- Blue Cross — Crossbreed and small-dog welfare: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice
- RSPCA — Responsible dog buying and brachycephalic welfare: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs
Recommended for your Pugshire
Matched to a Pugshire's size and their typical need for dental care.
Forthglade Grain Free Soft Bites Fresh Breath Treats 8pk
Chicken soft dog treats with parsley and peppermint oil for fresh breath
£2.45
NanoSanitas Advanced No-Brush Dental Gel for Dogs & Cats
A brush-free dental gel for dogs and cats, formulated with silver nanoparticles and papaya extract to help reduce plaque and freshen breath.
£14.99
Forthglade Natural Dental Sticks 5pk
Forthglade Natural Dental Sticks 5pk: complementary dog chew with dried potato — 170G
£3.00
Pet Dental Cleaning Wipes (50 Pack)
A tub of 50 textured finger wipes that lift plaque and freshen breath for dogs and cats without a toothbrush. Slip one over your finger and wipe teeth clean for easy daily dental care.
£9.99
Wooden Pet Deshedding Grooming Brush
An ergonomic wooden grooming brush with a fine-toothed edge that loosens and lifts away dead and shedding fur. The smooth contoured handle sits comfortably in the hand for quick, gentle daily de-shedding.
£14.99
Pet Oral Spray for Dogs & Cats
A 100ml pet oral spray for dogs and cats that helps promote fresh breath and cleaner teeth. Simply spray onto teeth and gums - no brushing needed for daily oral care.
£8.99
Bugalugs Double-Sided Dematting Rake for Dogs & Cats
Two tools in one: tackle stubborn mats with the 9-tooth side, then thin and de-shed with the 17-tooth side — ideal for long or double-coated pets.
£11.99
Canvas Shoe Rope Chew Toy for Dogs
A trainer-shaped chew toy in canvas with woven cotton rope laces, 18cm long, giving dogs something to tug, carry and gnaw while the fibres help clean their teeth.
£7.99
Suggestions based on breed traits — always check sizing and suitability for your individual dog.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.