What Is a Frug Dog? Personality, Care, and Training Tips

If you’ve ever wanted a dog that’s equal parts comedian and cuddle-bug, the frug dog (French Bulldog + Pug mix) probably popped up on your radar. And I get it—this mix tends to be affectionate, people-focused, and very “involved” in whatever you’re doing… including walking to the kitchen.

But because the frug is usually a flat-faced (brachycephalic) mix, the best frug dog care plan isn’t just “feed, walk, repeat.” It’s also about smart exercise, heat safety, and training that matches their personality.

What is a frug dog?

A frug dog is a Frenchie Pug mix—sometimes listed as French Bulldog Pug mix, Frenchie pug mix, or even pug French bulldog mix. Like most mixed-breed dogs, there’s variation in looks, temperament, and energy depending on which parent they take after most.

What many frugs share:

• A compact body and expressive face 
• Big feelings about being included 
• A tendency to snort/snore or breathe loudly (more on that below) 

Quick reality check (before you fall in love)

Frugs can be wonderful companions—but if you’re hoping for:

• long hikes in summer, 
• intense agility sessions, 
• or a dog who’s happy being ignored all day… 

…a frug puppy may not be the best match. They often thrive with close human contact, short training sessions, and careful activity management (especially in warm weather).

Frug dog personality: what owners usually notice first

Most frugs land somewhere in this sweet spot:

1) Affectionate “Velcro dog”

A frug dog often wants to be near you—on you, beside you, or monitoring you from 30 cm away like a tiny security guard.

2) Confident, funny, and a bit stubborn

Frenchies and pugs both have that bold, charming attitude. With frugs, you’ll often see:

• dramatic sighs, 
• selective hearing, 
• and a suspicious talent for “forgetting” commands when snacks aren’t involved. 

3) Friendly with people (usually)

Many frugs love visitors, but socialization still matters—especially with puppy excitement, jumping, or mouthy play.

4) Sensitive when left alone

Some frugs struggle with boredom or separation stress. If you work long hours outside the home, plan for:

• crate training done gently, 
• enrichment toys, 
• and a realistic alone-time routine. 

Frug vs. Frenchie vs. Pug (quick comparison)

Important: Flat-faced breeds/mixes can have airway narrowing and heat intolerance, so exercise and temperature management are not optional “nice-to-haves.”

Frug dog size, coat, and shedding

Because frugs are mixed-breed, there isn’t one “standard” look. You can see:

• short, smooth coats (most common), 
• fawn/cream/black/brindle mixes, 
• a face that’s more “Frenchie” or more “Pug.” 

Do frug dogs shed?

Many frugs shed some—usually not “husky-level,” but enough that:

• a quick brush a few times a week helps, 
• and a lint roller becomes part of the household décor. 

Frug dog care: the simple routine that prevents most problems

This is the routine I recommend for frug owners who want things to stay easy (and avoid the “why does my dog smell like… something?” phase).

Daily (5–7 minutes)

• Face folds: wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth (or a pet-safe wipe), then dry fully. 
• Eyes: check for discharge/irritation. 
• Short play + sniff time: 2–3 mini sessions. 

2–3x per week

• Brush: quick pass to reduce shedding and keep skin comfortable. Check my blog post on what are the best brushes for french bulldogs. 

• Fold check: if folds look moist/red, adjust routine and consider a vet check if it persists. 

Weekly

• Ears: check for odor, redness, or heavy wax. 
• Nails: trim if you hear clicking on the floor. 

Monthly-ish

• Bath: only as needed (over-bathing can irritate skin). Use a gentle dog shampoo.  I recommend you to read my blog post on What is the best shampoo for French bulldogs? I selected 5 picks that are carefully tailored to suit sensitive skin of Frenchies. 

Exercise needs: how much is enough for a frug dog?

Most frugs do best with short, consistent activity, not marathon workouts:

• 2–3 short walks per day 
• a few indoor play sessions 
• mental stimulation (sniff games, food puzzles, “find it”) 

Heat safety matters (seriously)

Flat-faced dogs can struggle to cool themselves efficiently, increasing heat risk. Plan walks early morning or later evening on warm days, keep water handy, and don’t push through heavy panting.

Tip: In summer, prioritize sniff walks over fast walks. Sniffing tires them out without turning it into a cardio event.

Training a frug dog: what actually works

Here’s the approach that usually clicks with this mix:

1) Make training “short + fun + consistent”

Frugs often do best with:

• 3–5 minute sessions, 
• 2–4 times a day, 
• a clear reward (tiny treats, toy, praise). 

2) Start with these core commands

• Name response 
• Sit 
• Down 
• Come 
• Leave it 
• Drop it 
• Place/Bed 

3) Potty training tips (especially for frug puppies)

• Take them out after sleep, play, and meals. 
• Reward immediately after they go outside. 
• If accidents happen: clean thoroughly, tighten routine—no drama. 

4) Leash walking: choose a harness

Because flat-faced breeds/mixes can have sensitive airways, many owners prefer a well-fitted harness over collar pressure during walks. (If you’re unsure, ask your vet what’s best for your dog’s breathing and body shape.)

5) Socialization: calm exposure beats chaos

Aim for gentle experiences:

• different people (hats, umbrellas, kids at a distance), 
• different surfaces, 
• calm dogs with good manners. 

Brachycephalic breathing & BOAS: what frug owners should know

Many frugs inherit a short-muzzle (brachycephalic) head shape. In some dogs, that anatomy can contribute to airway issues commonly discussed as brachycephalic syndrome / BOAS.

Signs that should trigger a vet conversation

• loud breathing even at rest 
• struggling on short walks 
• collapsing or seeming “overheated” quickly 
• repeated gagging, distress, or trouble recovering after play 

A vet can assess severity and give you a safe plan (and, in some cases, discuss treatment options).

Heatstroke in  Frugs: emergency basics (save this)

Just like French bulldogs, Frugs are also prone to overheating. That’s why I recommend putting a dog cooling vest on your pooch when going out in hot weather. Pet parents who live in warm climate know best how their dogs struggle for breath during strolls. If you ever suspect heatstroke:

1. Stop activity and move your dog to shade/cool area 
2. Start cooling with room-temp/cool water (not ice-cold shock) 
3. Use airflow (fan/AC) 
4. Contact a vet urgently 

These are standard first-aid steps recommended by major animal welfare organizations.

Is a frug dog right for you? 

A frug dog can be a great fit if you want:

• a cuddly companion with personality, 
• moderate exercise, 
• a dog who enjoys training in short bursts. 

A frug may be a tough fit if you need:

• an endurance running buddy, 
• a dog who can handle hot weather activity, 
• a super independent temperament. 

Adoption or breeder questions (quick but important)

If you’re buying from a breeder, ask:

• Can I see the parents and how they breathe at rest and after light play? 
• What vet checks have been done (especially airway/nostrils/soft palate concerns)? 
• What is your return policy if the dog develops significant issues early? 

If you’re adopting:

• Ask the rescue about breathing tolerance, heat tolerance, and any prior vet notes. 
• Request a vet check soon after adoption. 

Frug dog FAQ

Are frug dogs good family pets?

Often yes—many are affectionate and enjoy company. Supervise with small kids (jumping, overhandling, overexcitement). If kids pull dogs’ tails or ears, they can retaliate with aggression.

Do frug dogs bark a lot?

Many are not huge barkers, but they can be vocal when bored or when they want attention. Frugs belong to moderate barkers and their barking is often induced by a sudden noise or stress. Separation anxiety can be one of the main reasons for your Frug’s barking and howling. 

Are frug dogs hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Frugs usually have short coats but can still shed and produce dander. To reduce dander in your environment, we recommend you regular combing and wearing anti-shedding dog clothes.

How do I keep a frug puppy entertained?

Food puzzles, sniff games, short training, and a few toy rotations (swap toys every few days so they feel “new”). Check our collection of French bulldog toys because they will keep your dog entertained for a long time. Interactive dog toys can be especially helpful when you need to leave your house. They provide both mental and physical workout for those moments when your dog needs to stay alone.

Can frug dogs swim?

Some flat-faced, stocky dogs struggle in water. Use caution and consider a properly fitted life vest if you’re near pools or lakes. Our collection of dog life jackets features different types and cuts that will suit your Frug’s body properly. Note that Frugs are flat-faced just like Frenchies and they can quickly get tired during swimming.