St. John's Water Dog vs Bugg - Breed Comparison | PetzLover

The Bugg is generally a cross between a Boston Terrier and a Pug. There is no clear history in terms of who started this hybrid dog that was recognized initially be the IDCR or International Designer Canine Registry in 2009. This very cute little dog has become increasingly popular in a very short period of time. Crossing these two breeds created a small dog that loves to sit in your lap as well a romp and play.

At this time the Bugg is recognized by several of the hybrid and designer registries and clubs. This would include in addition to the IDCR:

• American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC)
• Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA)
• Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC)
• Designer Breed Registry (DBR)

The breed known as the St. John’s water dog is an extinct landrace breed. They were domestic dogs found in Newfoundland and at times were called the lesser Newfoundland. There is not much information available about the other breeds that went into its development. Hypothetically it is believed they are a mix of the Irish, Old English and Portuguese dogs bred to work.

It is also thought that other breeds in their family tree, descending from them, include the Golden Retriever, the Flat-Coated Retriever, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, the Labrador and the Curly-Coated Retriever. The Newfoundland is also related to the St. Johns Water Dog through the line of Rafeirio do Alenteios that Portuguese fisherman brought to the island.

The breed was exported to England in the 19th century and early 20th. There the breeds of retrievers were developed. In Canada during this time frame restrictions were placed on dog ownership in order to encourage people to raise sheep. At the same time England imposed a long quarantine on all animals coming into the country in order to get rid of rabies. These two factors contributed greatly to the extinction of the breed. It seems the last two dogs were seen in a remote area in the 1980’s. All attempts to save the breed failed.

This cross between the Boston Terrier and Pug can have several different looks depending upon whether the individual dog resembles the Pug or the Boston more. Some usual but not always physical characteristics include curly tails, droopy ears and a stocky body in a small dog. They usually have soft, straight coats. Most Buggs look more like the Boston than the Pug although they have the more smashed muzzles and shorter legs of the Pug. The heads are round with almond shaped eyes.

St. John’s Water Dog is strong, medium sized and stocky. They looked more like English Labs than American Labs. They had a thick, short coat, loved swimming, had a lot of endurance and rudder tail. It was also described as a thin, black dog with short hair. They had white patches on their chest and feet. His nose was thin and tapered, his legs powerful, his chest muscular. The breed is quick, swims, runs quickly and is a fighter as well.

Never accepted by any major kennel club except as a foundation breed. They became extinct.

This crossbreed is easily trainable and highly intelligent. They might be stubborn like the Boston or devoted like the Pug. They can have characteristics of both parents and be loving, playful lapdogs. They love to play with children, but they can be territorial like the Boston. The Bugg is a small dog with a big attitude. They are affectionate and sweet, friendly towards people and other animals. Since the Boston and the Pug have very similar characteristics and temperament, you can have a pretty good idea what your Bugg will be like.

Characteristics

1.Children friendliness - yes they are good with children.

2.Special talents swimming is their best talent

3.Adaptability large need fence, they are not large dogs but they need outdoor space

4.Learning ability – very smart and eager to learn

Some of the issues that the Buggs are susceptible to include allergies, skin issues and respiratory issues. They are also inclined to get ear infections.

They should not get overheated, fly on airplanes or be overly exerted.

There is no documented history of any genetic or hereditary illnesses in the breed. However, it seems rational to believe they suffered from ailments similar to Labradors and newfoundland though they are smaller dogs.

No history like Labs and Newfoundlands .

• Hip and elbow dysplasia – can cause lameness and arthritis.
• PRA – progressive retinal atrophy – can cause blindness.
• Cancer – in their later years.
• Infectious diseases – not as serious as prior to vaccinations.
• Myopathy hereditary – affects the muscles.
• Ear infections.

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Feeding

Buggs love to eat and will anything you give them and some things that you don’t. They can become obese very easily so watch their food intake. These small dogs should be eating food made for small dogs. Feed them only ¾ to 1 and ½ cups of dry food per day split into two meals.

Health issues

The Bugg can inherit health problems from either the Boston or the Pug, or they may be healthier than either parent breed. Both of these parent breeds are given to Brachycephalic issues due to their mashed faces. They could face respiratory issues or eye issues because of this.

Exercise and games

The Bugg is a very energetic and playful dog. They love to run, play and go on walks. Just one walk or play session per day is enough exercise for this little dog. You can easily have your play time inside if you don’t have a fenced yard. Because of their faces and breathing issues do not let them get overheated.

1Feeding the puppy – Don’t overfeed – they have a propensity toward obesity. Feed high quality, high protein 3 x a day.

2.Feeding the adult – Don’t overfeed. Feed a high quality, high protein 1-2 x a day.

3.Points for Good Health - stamina

4. Games and Exercises – They need space to run and they love to explore. They would also love to be near water where they could swim. Good at dock diving, field trials, flyball and frisbee.