How to train a Puggle dog
A puggle is a mixed breed dog created from breeding together a pug and beagle. Both breeds are very affectionate, social and make great pets. Beagles can be notoriously difficult to train. Pug trainability is usually listed as "average." Since a puggle is a mixed breed there is no breed standard and the trainability will be hard to predict. Positive reinforcement and making it fun will make it much easier to train your puggle.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
To better understand your puggle, learn about both beagles and pugs. Beagles are small hounds and often find "following their nose" more interesting than what you are trying to teach them! Pugs are in the AKC Toy group of dogs and can usually be trained the basics quite easily. Check the links at the bottom of this article for AKC information about both breeds. Keeping training sessions very short, active and fun will yield the best results in training your puggle.
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Always use the same words to accompany different actions by your puggle. This will help him learn to learn and get a larger vocabulary. As he gets accustomed to the word you use, it can become a command. An example would be, every time you are letting him into the house, use the same word, like "Inside." Over time he will associate the word with the action and you can tell him "Inside" and he'll go in without further prompting. This is just one example.
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Take at least one beginner obedience class, although it is best if you continue with obedience classes and training. You will both learn a lot and you'll have a better trained puggle. This is a great way for your pup to learn different things and pay attention with distractions.
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When you are first starting, have all training sessions in an area with no interesting smells or other distractions. As your puggle learns, you can practice outside, or with other dogs and people around. Dogs learn each time they succeed at something so make it easy for your puggle to succeed and not fail.
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Incorporate lots of treats, toys and playing games when training your puggle. Think of training as structured play time, where your puggle learns through games and treats and fun things. This will keep his attention much easier than being harsh or making training sessions boring. Find out what he likes and use those as rewards. Instead of using his normal treats or food, find a tasty treat he really enjoys and use them just for training. Have a special favorite toy that he only gets when he is learning and practicing his commands. Play with him a lot.
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Give your puggle lots of exercise and attention. Dogs are more likely to misbehave if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation, and after a vigorous or play session, you will find your puggle much more receptive to training. Avoid trying to enforce commands when he is just out of his crate or simply too full of energy to pay attention. Remember, give him lots of chances to succeed every time you train because that is how he will learn best.
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When training your puggle to walk on a leash, remember that beagles often go everywhere sniffing with their noses to the ground since that's what they were bred to do. Give him some time to sniff and follow his nose. Then switch to training mode and make your walk fast and fun. Change directions a lot so he has to pay attention to you. Carry treats and his favorite toy on walks to get his attention. If your puggle is stocky like a pug, you may want to use a harness instead of a regular collar for walking him.
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Tips & Warnings
Use lots of praise and rewards when training your puggle.
Avoid being harsh, as these breeds do not respond well to punitive measures.
