Firstly, The Panda Pug is a unique and eye-catching dog with a distinct panda-like look. This breed is a variation of the Pug, with a white or cream coat and distinct black, blue, or brown patches around the ears, eyes, and back or legs great family additions.
Panda Pugs are not recognized by major breed organizations. However, this doesn’t exempt them from Pug health issues like eye problems and breathing issues. You can combat these by wiping their eyes regularly with medical eye wipes and switching to a harness to prevent the pressure collars exert on their necks.
Further, Despite the questions about their breeding, panda pugs make great family pets and are known for their affectionate and playful personalities. We have looked at Pug maintenance books and expert sources to give you the ultimate Panda Pug learning experience. Please remember before searching for Panda Pug breeders, that breeding for exotic and rare colors is controversial and linked to breeding dogs with more health and temperament issues. Therefore, if you want to add a panda Pug puppy to your household, make sure to read this article and research the breed thoroughly.
Some unique Pug color and size variations, like Teacup and Brindle Pugs, are purebred. However, Breeders may have to selectively breed pugs with other breeds to achieve the genetics behind the panda coloring.
Also, Despite their mixed breed status, Panda Pugs have gained a following among Pug enthusiasts who appreciate their unique appearance and playful personalities. These dogs are known to make great pets for families and individuals alike.
If you’re considering adding a panda pug to your family, it’s essential to do your research and find a reputable breeder or try looking at adoption options. You should also be prepared to provide your new pet with plenty of love, attention, and exercise to ensure they stay happy and healthy.
Panda Pug History & Origin
The origin of the Panda Pug is somewhat controversial. While some breeders maintain that these dogs are purebred Pugs, others believe they result from outcrossing with other breeds like the Boston Terrier. This means that breeding with another breed happened somewhere in the bloodlines, even if a puppy has two Panda Pugs parents.
The genes for the recessive piebald or white markings (Irish spotting) needed for Panda Pugs don’t naturally occur in Pugs (as far as we know), which means that breeders need to crossbreed and outcross Pugs with another breed to get piebald genes. However, it is possible that it is a natural but rare mutation like brindle pugs, as does sometimes happen in dog breeds.
Other Panda pug enthusiasts point to the genetic “KIT” mutation that creates the panda German Shepherd. The UC Davis veterinary genetics laboratory did confirm that the white markings that showed in Panda German Shepherds was a natural genetic mutation. However, until Pugs are tested, we can’t know for sure if this or the pied gene exists naturally in Pugs, causing the rare coloration.
However, there is no way to know for sure if this is a natural genetic mutation until the DNA of Panda Pugs is studied. One Panda Pug on reddit owner asserts that her Panda Pug is all Pug. Ultimately, a DNA test is the best way to know your Pug’s true ancestry.
Note: Regardless of whether or not they are purebred, we must warn anybody looking for Panda Pug Puppies for sale, that the Pug Breed is notorious for health issues. Breeding for a rare coloration may make these health problems worse, so be very careful of Panda Pug breeders who may not be breeding ethically.
Coat & Colors
Panda Pugs have a short, smooth coat that is typically black and white, resembling the distinctive markings of a panda bear. The white areas are typically found on the face, chest, and belly, while the black areas cover the rest of the body. They most notably have white muzzle instead of the standard black mask on pugs. It can also be the other way around, with dark markings around the face, chest, and belly and a cream or white body.
In addition to their black and white coat, some Panda Pugs may have additional markings or variations in their coloring, such as brindle or fawn. However, the black and white coat is this breed’s most common and recognizable trait.
Panda Pug Health Concerns
Panda Pugs are prone to specific health issues, such as breathing difficulties, eye problems, and skin allergies. A study of 4308 Pugs and 21,835 non-Pugs found that Pugs had increased susceptibility to 23/40 (57.5%) common disorders, making Pugs a pretty unhealthy breed. This is one reason why some people have started breeding the Retro Pug as a healthier alternativ-e-archive.
Here are some health issues to look out for in your Panda Pug:
Brachycephalic ocular syndrome: This affects their eyes and can cause problems such as entropion, cherry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, corneal ulcers, and dry eye.
Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BOAS): This medical condition is seen in dogs with short noses and flat faces, like pugs. It refers to airway problems like difficulty breathing, snoring, and even collapsing due to lack of oxygen.
Skin Fold Infections: The wrinkles and skin folds on a Pug’s face and body can trap moisture and debris, making them prone to skin infections, including pyoderma.
Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis, pain, and limping.
Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE): PDE is a rare but severe neurological disease that affects Pugs. It can lead to seizures, blindness, and death. Studies show the condition affects approximately 1% of the Pug population.
Dental Issues: Pugs often have dental problems due to their crowded teeth and underbites. Regular dental care is essential.
Thyroid issues leading to lethargy, increased thirst, and more peeing.
Heat Sensitivity: Pugs are sensitive to extreme temperatures, especially heat, due to their brachycephalic nature. They can easily overheat and suffer from heatstroke.
Finding a Breeder
To find a reputable Panda Pug breeder, it is recommended to start by researching online. Look for breeders registered with the American Kennel Club or other reputable organizations. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have adopted a Panda Pug.
When you find a breeder, it is essential to ask questions about the health and temperament of the puppies. A good breeder should be able to provide documentation of health screenings for the parents and puppies, as well as information about their breeding practices.
