What is a Pugador Dog – Pug Lab Mix [With Photos]

Designer breeds are becoming more popular. The AKC doesn’t formally recognize these dogs, but a growing number of breeders are offering unique mixes like Labradoodles, Cockapoos, or Schnoodles.

A Pugador is an adorable result of mixing a Pug and Lab. This breed is extremely rare, but it’s the ideal companion for those who want a fun and loving pet.

Meet the Pugador

Like all designer breeds, the Pugador can inherit traits from both parent breeds. Because Pugs and Labs are both loving and loyal breeds, the Pugador is a great family dog.

Labs are athletic and eager to please. They’re outgoing dogs who are also very playful. They’re intelligent and love to learn new things. Exploring and going on outdoor adventures are essential activities for a happy and well-adjusted Lab.

On the other hand, Pugs are affectionate dogs who are content with staying home and cuddling on the couch. They have moderate exercise needs, but they enjoy playing with their owner. They can be mischievous and even stubborn, but these small dogs are very loving and loyal.

Pugadors share traits with both of their parent breeds. These dogs are very intelligent since Labs and Pugs are both smart breeds, but they won’t be quite as athletic as Labradors.

Each dog has a unique personality, and you can usually get an idea of what a puppy will be like if you can observe the parents. If you want to get a Pugador, you should talk to the breeder to find out more about the parents and the personality traits you can expect to find in your new companion.

How Common Are Pugadors?

Pugadors usually inherit the pushed-in nose that gives Pugs their unique look and sometimes get the curly tail that characterizes this breed. The result is an adorable pet with the traits you would expect to find in a Pug but with a larger body.

However, Pugadors aren’t very common. It’s not one of the most popular designer breeds.

If you ever see a Pugador, you’ll recognize this mix right away since these dogs have a flat face that you will only see in Pugs and Boxers.

How Big Do Pugadors Get?

The size of a Pugador can vary from one individual to another and can be hard to predict since there is a significant size difference between the two parents.

On average, Pugs grow to be 10 to 12” tall and weigh 14 to 20 lbs. Labs are medium-sized dogs. Males are usually somewhere in the 22 to 24” range while females are a little smaller at 21 to 23” in height. Males are larger and weigh 65 to 80 lbs. while females rarely exceed 70 lbs. and can weigh as little as 55 lbs.

A Pugador will be somewhere between the two breeds. It will look like a small Labrador or a large Pug. A Pugador should be 15 to 20” in height and weigh anywhere from 30 to 50 lbs. The parents’ size can cause these numbers to vary since a Pugador with a larger Lab parent might be closer to a medium-sized dog.

How Much Exercise Does a Pugador Need?

Pugs have moderate exercise needs. These small dogs are fine with a daily walk of about 30-40 minutes. It’s a breed where breathing problems can become an issue. Pug owners should monitor their pets for signs of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and limit exercise if needed.

On the other hand, Labradors belong to the sporting group. This breed is very active and needs at least 80 minutes of exercise a day. These dogs love to walk, run, play, swim, and hike. They’re the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.

Pugs and Labs are at two opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to exercise needs, and Pugadors typically fall somewhere in the middle.

You should aim for an hour of exercise a day and adjust how much exercise your Pugador gets as needed. If your pup seems restless or mischievous, spending more time playing or walking could help.

You should also watch out for shortness of breath and other respiratory issues. Mixing a Pug with a Lab should reduce the severity of these symptoms, but Pugadors can still inherit breathing problems linked to their flat face.

How Much Grooming Do Pugadors Need?

Pugs and Labs both have short and dense coats that don’t require trimming. Pugadors don’t have extensive grooming needs since they will inherit this short and dense coat. You should see less shedding compared to most Labs, thanks to the Pug genes.

However, your Pugador might have slightly longer hair than most Pugs due to their Lab parent. You might need to comb or brush your Pugador two to three times a week to keep their coat clean and reduce shedding.

Because of their unique face, Pugs require daily cleaning of their facial folds. These wrinkles can arbor bacteria and become smelly. In some cases, skin infections can even appear. If you have a Pug, you should clean these facial folds every day with some baby wipes or a soft cloth. You might also need to moisturize their nose and folds with some coconut oil to promote healthy skin.

Pugadors also get these facial folds. They might not be as deep or noticeable as on Pugs, but you’ll still have to clean these wrinkles regularly.

Is a Pugador the Right Designer Breed for You?

Pugs and Labs are two great breeds for those looking for a family dog who gets along well with children. Pugadors will share characteristics from these two breeds and fit right in.

They should also do well with other animals, provided that the breeder took the time to socialize them as puppies.

Because Pugadors are larger than a purebred Pug, they might not be a good match for those who live in tiny homes or apartments. Remember that Labs belong to the sporting group and that Pugadors will need more exercise than most Pugs.

Besides, your Pugador will probably inherit a drive to play outside and explore from her Labrador parent. If you’re looking for a dog who can join you on your adventures and who is happy to snuggle on the couch at the end of the day, a Pugador could be an excellent option for you.

Wrap Up

Pugadors aren’t a common designer breed, but these dogs have a unique look due to their Pug parentage. Mixing a Pug with a Lab results in an adorable dog with a loyal and affectionate personality. If you’re thinking about getting a Pugador, we recommend learning as much as you can about the parents to get a better idea of what your new puppy will be like.