Retro Pugs
Recently I came across a post about someone that owns a retro pug. I have never heard of a retro pug before. I imagined a pug wearing roller skates and sweatbands posing under a disco ball, but my imagination was not that far off. A retro pug is a new, old dog that is growing in popularity, but what exactly is a retro pug and how is it different than a standard pug?
What is a retro pug?
A retro pug is a designer breed with the intent of enhancing health and vitality. The Retro Pug was developed by combining the genes of a traditional Pug with a Jack Russell or a Parson Russell Terrier. The result is a breed that retains the Pug’s lovable personality and distinctive appearance but with a longer snout and fewer wrinkles, significantly reducing the risk of the health issues that plague traditional Pugs.
For Centuries, the pug breed has gone through a lot of changes. Hundreds of years ago, pugs had a longer snout. Over time, breeders have developed pugs into the short, smushed snout that has contributed to breathing issues with some pugs. Going back to the old pug has helped with breathing issues and overall health.
What are the differences between pugs and retro pugs?
The biggest difference is the length of their snout. The longer snout of retro pugs is from breeding with Jack Russell Terriers and sometimes Beagles. The longer snout of the retro pug changes its face dimensions. Where a traditional pug has a rounded face, the retro pug has a slimmer profile. The traditional wrinkles of a pug are more smoothed out on a retro pug’s face.
Along with the difference of their faces, retro pugs will have larger, floppy ears. This is also intentional with the breeding process to improve health. Larger ears on dogs have been shown to improve hearing and the risk of ear infections.
Retro pugs are also bigger in size than their pug counterparts. Adult retro pugs can weigh from 15lbs to 25lbs. Their bodies are also more elongated and are less likely to have weigh issues. They are also a bit taller than a traditional pug. A full-size retro pug can be 9 to 16 inches tall.
Retro pugs have a higher energy level than pugs. Since they are bred with high energy level dogs like a Jack Russell, Parson Russell, or a Beagle, they will require more exercise. You may need to keep them engaged with puzzle toys to prevent chewing or digging as they can be a little more mischievous. An active lifestyle is a better match for retro pugs. Even though they may have higher energy, retro pugs keep the pug temperament of affection and friendliness. They also aim to please.
Overall health is also a big difference. With the longer snout of the retro pug, this reduces the risk of breathing issues. The more open-air flow of a retro pug will not get them winded as fast as a pug which reduces the risk of overheating during play and obesity. The larger head structure of a retro pug has potentially reduced the risk of Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE) and other common pug aliments, such as skin and ear infections.
The Verdict on Retro Pugs
A retro pug is a great option for those that want the characteristics of a traditional pug but may have a more active lifestyle and do not want to worry about common pug health issues. Another thing to consider is that retro pugs do not have the full pug look that pug owners love. Depending on their ancestry, they may display more traits of a Jack Russell or Beagle.
If a retro pug is the right fit for you, please make sure to do your research. Responsible breeding practices are crucial to maintaining health improvements in retro pugs. If you plan to go through a breeder, ask them about their breeding practices and genetic testing. If you go through a rescue, buy a doggie DNA test kit to see which breeds make up your new puggy to plan for care and health requirements.
