The Chug, also known as the Pugwawa or Pughuahua, is a compact, muscular small hybrid dog, very similar in build to the Pug and Chihuahua. Most Chugs will grow to reach a mature size of about up to about 12 inches with a weight of approximately 20 pounds. Like the two parent breeds the Pugawawa tends to have a shorter muzzle, slightly pronounced, round eyes and medium length ears that fold over at the tip.

Since the Chihuahua can be either short or long coated, this canine hybrid can have the very thick, short dense hair more typically of the Pug or the slightly longer, silkier hair of the long haired Chihuahua.

Colors vary from black and tan to fawn and black, brown, tan or cream colors. White markings are often seen on the chest, feet and face. The tail can be carried very high in a tight curl or in a gentler arch across the back. This variation in coat is one of the reasons this canine hybrid is gaining rapidly in popularity.

The Pugwawa is a very outgoing dog with a real zest for life and fun. They enjoy being in the center of the family and need lots of attention and interaction to really thrive. Well socialized Chugs are outgoing with all types of animals and new people and are great companion pets. Like many hybrid breeds it is known to be great with children and is not as prone to being nervous and anxious as the parent Chihuahua breed.

As a companion breed the Chug is an ideal dog for inside as he or she will self-exercise and stay active in the house. They do, however, love to get out and run and play so need daily activity to keep healthy and happy. The Chug is typically easy to train and highly intelligent. They also have a very expressive face and are almost human in their expressions.

Depending on the type of coat that the Pughuahua has he or she will require slightly different grooming. In most cases a stiff bristle brush followed by a slicker brush is all that is needed. The eyes need to be carefully cleaned with a warm, damp cloth and closely monitored for any signs of irritation or tearing that can signal debris in the eyes. This is very typical of any breed with the pronounced eyes as seen on the Chug.

They are normally very fit dogs and have an average lifespan of about twelve to fifteen years. As with any short muzzled dog types they are prone to snoring and respiratory problems in hot weather and need to be carefully monitored in the summer months.