Retro Pugs vs. Pugs
Retro Pugs are a not-so-retro Pug breed that aims to correct the Pug's many health issues. Learn more about what makes a Retro Pug!
What is a Retro Pug?
The retro Pug is a new breed of dog, a crossbreed between a Pug and a Jack Russel Terrier.
It may be new, but it’s trying to be an old-fashioned pug… the Pug that wasn’t as notorious for its health issues.
Pugs have changed a lot over the years— they have been selectively bred for flatter faces in an attempt to make them cuter.
Retro Pug vs Pug
| Retro Pug | Pug | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $600 to $1,500 | $800-$2,500 |
| Weight | 17lbs to 26lbs (8-12kg) | 14lbs to 18lbs |
| Size | 12.5in. to 15in. in height | 10in. to 13in. in height |
| Lifespan | 13-16 years | 12-15 years |
What are the differences between Pugs & Retro Pugs?
The most evident difference is that Retro Pugs have a longer snout than the Pug. While pugs are only either fawn or black, Retro Pugs come in a variety of colors including black, apricot, and silver.
Retro Pugs have longer and flappy ears that droop down the side of their head and they have a longer tail that is slightly curved up.
They also look less wrinkly than Pugs.
Making the Retro Pug
By taking both a Pug & a Jack Russel Terrier, you’re able to create a new breed that has the best of both worlds.
The result is a healthy & happy dog with a longer snout that does not suffer from the same breathing issues that are common in Purebred Pugs.
How much is a Retro Pug?
Generally, the price ranges between $800 and $1500.
The price of this doggy depends on factors such as the breeder’s reputation and the specific features of the dog.
What is the motivation behind creating the Retro Pug?
The Retro Pug was bred to create a healthier version of the Pug that does not suffer from as many health issues as Purebred Pugs.
To get rid of problems such as
- Breathing issues
- Back issues
- Eye issues
- Misc. genetic health conditions
Retro Pug Temperament & Personality Traits
Retro Pugs are lively, friendly and affectionate.
They can be mischievous, but they are typically very good with children and other pets because of their fun-loving and sociable nature. Their most evident traits include:
Intelligent: They are intelligent enough to do well in obedience training. With proper rewarding, the pups pick up just about anything you train them.
Loyal: They are extremely loyal and affectionate to their family, even around strangers. They also form strong ties with other pets in the household, but this character can quickly get overshadowed by any threat they perceive.
Attention-loving: These dogs love attention and will bark or do something mischievous to get it. They are not shy about making their presence felt.
Loving: As said before, they are very affectionate and loving to their family. They want to be rubbed and petted as often as possible.
What did Pugs originally look like?
Pugs were originally bred in China as lapdogs for royalty.
They were bred to be medium-sized with short legs and tails.
The European version of the dog was proportionately larger.
Pugs are unmistakable– yet somehow, people still mistake them for Frenchies.
Is it possible to breed healthier Pugs?
Yes, it’s definitely possible to breed healthier pugs…
But a healthier version of the Pug wouldn’t look like the Pug we all know…
Breeders are unlikely to do so
For this reason, breeders are likely to be reluctant as many of their customers are looking for a Pug with a smooshed flat face.
Unfortunately, this desired appearance is also what causes Pug’s breathing issues & other health problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
You probably still have lots of questions about Retro Pugs— don’t worry!
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, send us a suggestion and we’ll get back to you!
How much grooming do Retro Pugs need?
Retro Pugs do not need a lot of cleaning and grooming.
Basic Retro Pug Grooming Advice
Bathing
The dog needs to be bathed once every week or two.
Six weeks is the maximum that should go between baths.
Brushing their Teeth
Ideally, they should also have their teeth brushed at least once a day due to their vulnerability to dental problems…
However, if your Retro Pug’s mouth is healthy, you do not have to brush their teeth every day- once every three days can do, provided plaque doesn’t build up on their teeth.
How much do Retro Pugs shed?
Pugs shed a lot, and the Retro Pug is no exception.
Expect hair on your clothes & furniture if you decide to get a Retro Pug.
However, the shedding depends on several factors like the season of year, diet, and age.
For more advice on how to get rid of your dog’s shedding, check out our page on French Bulldog shedding— while it’s for Frenchies, the advice will still apply for your Retro Pug.
10 Common Retro Pug Health Issues
Retro Pugs are susceptible to a variety of health conditions.
Most of these health issues are related to their flat faces— but they are not as common as Purebred Pugs
most of which stem from the short facial (snout) structure and the flat, pushed-in face— less than Purebred Pugs though.
- Respiratory problems common to pugs, including breathing difficulties and disorders.
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
- Brachycephalic ocular syndrome
- A susceptibility to ulcers
- Allergies which manifest as sensitivity to dust, pollen and pests like fleas
- Dental problems
- Epilepsy (seizures)
- Hip and shoulder dysplasia
- Skin cancer
- Skinfold dermatitis
History of Pugs – how did they evolve over time to become the breed they are today?
Pugs were originally bred in China around the 16th century.
They were brought over to Europe in the 16th-17th century and immediately became popular among the royals.
The English bred them to be smaller & more compact.
The American Kennel Club recognized the Pug in 1885, but it wasn’t until 1903 that they were officially called Pugs.
With careful breeding, it is possible to produce healthier dogs that don’t suffer from the many health problems that are common to the breed.
