Fruggle vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Fruggle vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonBoth Fruggle and Australian Shepherd are originated from United States. Fruggle may grow 22 cm / 8 inches shorter than Australian Shepherd. Fruggle may weigh 19 kg / 41 pounds lesser than Australian Shepherd. Both Fruggle and Australian Shepherd has same life span. Both Fruggle and Australian Shepherd has almost same litter size. Both Fruggle and Australian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance.

History

fruggle - historyThe Fruggle is a mixed breed/hybrid crossover between a Pug and a French Bulldog. The “Frug” is considered a designer breed, developed in the United States and growing in popularity. These hybrid dogs all can be different taking their looks and characteristics from one or both of the parent dogs in different ways. Within the same litter you can have pups that look like pugs and act like French Bulldogs or look like French Bulldogs and act like pugs.

Also known as a Frenchie Pug, the hybrid is growing in popularity and new to the United Kingdom but recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club. It is not recognized by the AKC or American Kennel Club. They are developed from purebred dogs but are not a purebred breed at this time. It would take generations of breeding true for that to happen. At the same time the Fruggle is an adorable little dog with characteristics of both its purebred parents.

The French Bulldog is a descendent of dogs that lived with ancient Greeks, the Molossians Phoenician traders spread the dog throughout the known world. These dogs were used in dogs fights and sporting until 1835 when these were outlawed. The Frenchie became a companion dog for the ladies of Paris, writers, artists and fashion designers. The Pug, on the other hand, can trace their history as far back as Confucius in 700BC. They are one of the most ancient dog breeds in existence today. They were the property of the Imperial Family in China, guarded by soldiers. Stealing a pug in Imperial China was punishable by death.

There is no real history or the Fruggle as it is too young in its existence as a separate type of dog. It is considered a breed – just a hybrid breed. In addition to the American Canine Hybrid Club, it is also recognized by the International Designer Canine Registry, the Designer Breed Registry, the Dog Registry of America and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club.

australian shepherd - historyThe Australian Shepherd, known fondly as ‘Aussies’, is actually an American breed, with the first official registry being in the 1950s. Basque Shepherds from Spain settled in Australia at the end of the 19th century, later moving to the United Stated with their dogs in tow. It is from these dogs that the breed originated. In the UK too, this breed of dog has many enthusiastic followers.

For many years, the Australian Shepherd has been recognized for their wonderful abilities as stock- or herding dogs, and today in Australia they continue to work as stock dogs and often take part in herding trials.

More recently, this working dog breed has been selectively bred to develop both Toy- and Miniature Aussies, and the American Stock Dog Registry actually recognizes 3 sizes today.The Australian Shepherd Club of America was also founded in 1957 to promote the breed.

Description

fruggle puppy - descriptionBeing a designer dog, the appearance and characteristics of the Fruggle varies from pup to pup. Most do have flat faces, large eyes, and short muzzles. The Frug is a short, sturdy and compact dog. Their tail is over the back in a tight curl, and the ears are round and large. They are called Rose Ears. The nose and eyes are black or very dark and they have wrinkles on the forehead. This is the basic generalization of a mix between the Pug and the French Bulldog. The reality is they are all different. Most often they have a Pugs face with the French Bulldogs ears. They are a little smaller than the French Bulldog and a little larger than the Pug. Their hair is fine, glossy, smooth and short.

Coat

australian shepherd puppy - descriptionSimilar in appearance to the Border Collie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium sized dog and has a medium length coat which is straight to wavy with a weather resistant undercoat. The range of coat colours is amazing, and you’ll find blue, blue merle, black and red merle and all of these are with or without tan points. The Australian Shepherd is a drop-eared breed where prick ears are sometimes seen. Some Aussies are born with naturally bobbed tails while most have full, long tails.

Different Eye Colour Combinations

There is variety in the eye colour too, and they are often heterochromatic, which means that they can have two different coloured eyes or the one eye can even be bi-coloured. Most times the eyes are brown, but they can be blue too.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

fruggle dog - characteristicsThe Fruggle is very child friendly

Special talents

The Fruggle is a good watchdog and can be taught many tricks.

Adaptability

He is not very adaptable. He can live in city and in apartments much better than in the country or on farms. He needs air conditioning

Learning ability

Is very high as the Fruggle is very intelligent

australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, learning quickly. As a herding dog, he also has strong guarding instincts and will make a good watch dog. The dog has a balanced, even disposition, and even though he may show some reserve, he is certainly not a shy dog and isn’t aggressive.

He Craves Human Companionship

Your Aussie is a kind, loving, and devoted pet. He loves his human family and wants to spend lots of time with them. Don’t leave him without human companionship as he craves it and forms strong bonds with his family. Provide him with good care and with lots of fun and games and you’ve got an exceptional friend for life.

Health Problems

fruggle puppies - health problemsThe Fruggle can inherit any of the health issues of either parent or they might be healthier than either parent. Some of the issues that the Fruggle might face include:

  1. Infections in wrinkles
  2. Keep them clean to avoid skin infections
  3. Glaucoma
  4. Must be treated to avoid blindness
  5. Allergies
  6. Might face seasonal allergies/ some might need allergy shots
  7. Hip Dysplasia
  8. Can cause arthritis or lameness
  9. Patellar Luxation
  10. Otherwise known as “floating” kneecap. Can cause lameness
  11. Brachycephalic Syndrome
  12. Short, smashed face cannot tolerate heat or a lot of exercise.
  13. Cataracts
  14. Not as serious as other eye issues but should be watched

australian shepherd puppies - health problemsAussies are a healthy breed and won’t cost you a fortune at the vet. However, like every other breed, they are also prone to certain health conditions such as cancer. When choosing a puppy, always look for a good, reputable breeder who can show you health clearances.

We look at some common health ailments to be alert about

Hip Dysplasia

This is a dog ailment that can be inherited. It is where the femur doesn't fit properly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Also, as the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy an hereditary disorder where the seizures your dog gets can be treated and controlled.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans, commonly known as OCD is an orthopedic condition which comes about because of improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It can cause painful stiffening of the elbow joint for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that can finally lead to blindness. Reputable Aussie dog breeders have their dogs' eyes certified regularly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Your Aussie Puppy Needs Vaccinations

Your newborn Australian Shepherd may well be strong and healthy, but he isn’t immune from life-threatening illnesses. Vaccinations are imperative for your Aussie puppy, with vets usually recommending that puppies be vaccinated for the first time from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

These vaccinations will include the 5-in-one and includes Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Later on the puppy will get his first rabies shot and he will also require booster vaccinations.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

fruggle dogs - caring1/2 cup should be fed daily in two to three meals of high quality dry puppy food

Feeding the adult

1/2 to 2 cups should be fed daily in two meals of high quality dry adult food

Points for Good Health

Quite often the first generation hybrid has much better health than either of the founding breeds. The same is not true of the second and third generations.

Games and Exercises

The Fruggle is a laid back dog requiring very little exercise. A daily walk or rolling a ball around the apartment is enough for him. The Fruggle should NOT be exercise vigorously or excessively due to its smashed face and Brachycephalic Syndrome. Weekly visits to a dog park would be sufficient as well. Do not take him out in excessive cold or heat.

General Grooming

australian shepherd dogs - caringWith his medium length coat, the Australian Shepherd sheds. In fact this particular breed sheds his hair the entire year round, but you’ll notice that with the arrival of Spring, he sheds more as this is when he is losing his Winter coat. You will most certainly need to brush his coat at least 2x a week to get rid of all those tufts of hair and to also prevent matting.

Feeding

A puppy will need 4 bowls of vet-recommended food a day. How much your adult Australian Shepherd gets will depend on his age, size and activity levels.The quality of food you buy will make a difference as it will keep your Aussie in good shape. Remember to include raw or cooked meat into his diet once a week or so. For more on feeding your Aussie, speak to your vet. Always ensure a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Training and Socialization

The Australian Shepherd is a strong willed dog, used to playing the dominant role with the herding of livestock. He’ll need firm training and socialization if you want to make him an amicable family pet.

Like many herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are loyal to their family and don’t easily take to strangers. Aussies make awesome companions for families with kids who have been taught how to treat dogs and other pets with kindness and gentleness. Just like a dog needs socialization, a child needs to respect a sleeping, feeding dog and to leave him in peace.

Basic Information

Group:
Companion dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
United States
United States
Height Male:
28 - 36 cm
11 - 15 inches
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
Height Female:
26 - 34 cm
10 - 14 inches
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
6 - 13 kg
13 - 29 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Weight Female:
5 - 12 kg
11 - 27 pounds
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 7
6 - 9
Size:
Small dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Frug Frenchie Pug
Aussie
Colors Available:
ranging from the palest silver to very dark red. , fawn with black masks
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
Coat:
short and close coarse and hard to soft and glossy
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Shedding:
Minimal
Constant
Temperament:
Cheerful, Courageous, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

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