Muggin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison

Muggin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed ComparisonMuggin is originated from United States but Australian Silky Terrier is originated from Australia. Muggin may grow 12 cm / 4 inches shorter than Australian Silky Terrier. Muggin may weigh 16 kg / 36 pounds more than Australian Silky Terrier. Both Muggin and Australian Silky Terrier has same life span. Muggin may have more litter size than Australian Silky Terrier. Muggin requires High maintenance. But Australian Silky Terrier requires Moderate maintenance

History

muggin - historyThe Muggin is not a purebred dog but rather a cross breed. The hybrid dog population has exploding in the United States in the past ten to fifteen years. A lot of the success of crossbreeding can be attributed to the marketing of these dogs as “Designer Breeds”.

Designer breeds are developed because someone wants some of the characteristics of Breed X and some of the characteristics of Breed Y. Therefore, Designer breed XY is developed. In order to understand this hybrid dog, you need to understand the two purebred breeds they come from. The Muggin is the result of crossing the purebred Pug and the purebred Miniature Pinscher or Min Pin. So, we need to look at the origins of these two purebred breeds.

They are also referred to as Pin Pugs, Min Pin Pug, Pug Pin, Pugscher and were originally the Carlin Pinscher. However, these days there are other breeds besides the Pug and Min Pin making up the gene pool for the Carlin Pinscher. Because of this the Muggin has been separated from the Carlin Pinscher. The American Canine Hybrid Club has accepted the Muggin name for the Pug Min Pin cross.

Pugs are originally a Chinese breed and they were companions rather than working dogs of any kind. During the Han Dynasty they were the dogs of royalty. At the same time there were dogs very much like the pug in Japan and Tibet. The Pugs came to Europe by way of trades with the Dutch who then brought them to Europe. They were named the Mopshond and they caught the eye of the royalty in Europe as well.

Pugs were imported to the United States after the U.S. Civil War and in 1885 they were recognized by the American Kennel Club and called Pugs.

The Min Pin traces its origins to Germany a few hundred years ago. They were “ratters”, guarding the house and stables from all types of vermin. Most dog people believe that the Min Pin is much older than this, perhaps by thousands of years. Yet there is no detailed history to support that. Most believe the breed comes from the German Pinscher line. There might also be some Daschund and Greyhound in that line.

They were once called the Reh Pinscher. This was their name when they came to North America in 1919 and then the breed was renamed in 1972. The Miniature Pinscher Club of America was started in the early 1900’s while the AKC recognized the Min Pin in 1929. Today the Miniature Pinscher is a family dog, a companion.

The Muggin is a loving and loyal dog. All they want is for you to be happy and to share that happiness with them. They can also easily become a one person dog and bond intensely with that one person. They are not a hybrid that you can leave home alone while you go to work for 8 to 10 hours a day. No, the Muggin needs attention and lots of it. Despite this they are great with both kids and other dogs.

Because they are a cross breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. However, some hybrid registries do recognize the Muggin. These include the Designer Breed Registry, the International Designer Canine Registry, The Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the American Canine Hybrid Club, and the Dog Registry of America.

australian silky terrier - historyMany toy breeds have been bred for centuries and were kept as lap dogs and companion dogs. Known at first as ‘The Sydney Silk’ the Australian Silky Terrier originated in Australia, but before the 2nd World War, the Australian SilkyTerrier was all but unknown outside Australia.

The toy breed came about by crossing the Yorkshire Terrier and the Australian Terrier, but further crossings contributed to the silky coat and the small size we are familiar with today. Despite this little dog being classified in the Toy Group, this spunky dog has the ability to hunt and kill rodents.

Victorian and Tasmanian breeders claimed to be originators of the breed, so the official name, Australian Silky Terrier, was adopted in 1956. Since recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1955, the breed has enjoyed a solid build up of fans.

Description

muggin puppy - descriptionAs previously mentioned, the Muggin is a cross between the Pug and the Miniature Pinscher. They are small, shave sturdy legs, floppy ears, and a wrinkled forehead for the most part. Like all hybrids however, all first generation dogs do not look the same. Some might resemble the Min Pin more and others the Pug. Some might have the stockier body of the Pug and the short tail of the Min Pin. Or one could have the Pug’s curly tail and the athletic body of the Min Pin. The snout can be short or long, the ears heavy and floppy or small and thin.

Their coats will usually be fine and short, and colors can vary a lot. They might be black and tan like a Min Pin, or more like a Pug with a solid color of cream, brown, black, white or golden. They also tend to shed quite a bit no matter which parent they take after the most. They will either have brown noses and black eyes or brown eyes and black noses or any combination of black and brown.

If Muggins are only bred to Muggins the second and third generations will resemble each other more than the first generations will. However, at this point many breeders will try to strengthen the breed by occasionally adding in to the gene pool other dog breeds.

Small but Spunky

australian silky terrier puppy - descriptionThis is a small breed with Loads of Spunk. The Silky terrier is somewhat longer than tall and height is around 23cm, with weight being about 4kg. He has an athletic build and although the bone structure is refined, the small dog has amazing strength and durability with a keen, alert face. Small but sturdily built, the dark, almond-shaped eyes don’t miss a thing as do the small, erect v-shaped ears.

Full of fun and packed with character, the Silky Terrier isn’t your regular lap dog as he is bold, active, feisty and playful- always ready for action. He can be aggressive toward strange pets but becomes amicable with other pets in the home. He is sharp and clever, and can be trained to be an absolute pleasure in the home and a playmate for children trained to be kind to animals.

They are loving and devoted to their human family and can be excellent watchdogs even though they can’t offer much protection.

The Coat – the most Distinctive Feature

Of course, the Silky Terrier gets his name from the sleek, silky coat that if allowed to grow, flows down from their backs to the floor. It is the dogs most distinctive feature. They come in several solid colors and mixes of colors too such as blue/tan, grey/blue and cream.

He’s Adaptable

The Silky is an adaptable dog and even though he is energetic and will needs daily physical and mental exercise, he can be a country or an apartment dog, but will require plenty of exercise and getting out and about.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

muggin dog - characteristicsThey are good with children but should be supervised.

Special talents

Energetic and loving little dogs.

Adaptability

Very adaptable if taken for walks or has space in a yard. Can live anywhere under those circumstances.

Learning ability

Very intelligent but strong willed dog. Needs strong leadership from their person.

Caution with Small Children

australian silky terrier dog - characteristicsSmall in stature but with a strong personality, the Australian Silky Terrier is a keen, intelligent, active, energetic and spunky breed. He is affectionate and loyal towards his human family, and although good with older children and other pets, he may not get on too well with small children and their erratic movements.

Training Required for his Wilful Nature

Don’t leave him alone for too long as he becomes anxious and destructive. He is an active dog too and while he will adapt to apartment living, he will need exercise and games to keep him active, fit, stimulated and healthy. Your Silky is an intelligent dog but he is stubborn too and proper socialization and training will be important for Silky Terriers, as then he becomes quite sociable.

A firm but gentle hand will be needed to train this wilful little dog, but when you show him who’s boss, he becomes your devoted and loyal friend.

Health Problems

muggin puppies - health problemsThe first generation of Muggins may face all the health issues of either or both their parents, while second and third generations tend to have less health issues, They types of issues the first generation of Muggins might face include:

Nerve Degeneration – Degenerative Myelopathy or Dm – causes paralysis and eventually fatal.

  • Hip Dysplasia – causes lameness and arthritis.
  • Epilepsy – can be treated with medication to prevent seizures.
  • Patellar Luxation – kneecap movement can cause lameness and arthritis.
  • Hypothyroidism – responds to medication.
  • Demodectic Mange and skin issues including allergies
  • Eye issues – including cataracts and Cherry Eye.
  • Yeast and Staph infections
  • Myotonia Congenite -Rare disease cause muscle contractions and stiffness.
  • Von Willebrand’s – inherited clotting disorder – no treatment unless needing surgery
  • Congenital Magaeshphagus – enlarged esophagus from birth is treatable.
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes – small dog hip joint disorder causes lameness.
  • Liver Issues – cause discomfort and could be fatal
  • Reverse sneezing – minor issue not serious but may sound like the dog is choking.

Some Ailments to Look out For

australian silky terrier puppies - health problemsThe Australian Silky Terrier is generally healthy and he has a lifespan of 11 – 14 years. However he may suffer from some problems such as Legg-Perthes disease. This means degeneration of the head on the femur bone of the dog's hind leg, resulting is osteoarthritis. This ailment is commonly seen in miniature-, small and toy breeds and can result in lameness and pain.

Silky Terriers are also prone to certain eye disorders, including PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy as well as cataracts. PRA can lead to total blindness.

Vaccinating your Pet – what’s required?

Getting the right puppy shots and vaccinations is also part of good health care for your Silky and you can speak to your vet about what injections are due at 6 – 8 weeks of age and what booster vaccinations may be necessary.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

muggin dogs - caringThis crossbreed has a definite propensity to overeat and become obese from puppyhood. Feed the puppy a small dog dry food 3-4 times a day a total of ¾ of a cup to 1 cup.

Feeding the adult

Again don’t over feed the adult Muggin or he will become obese easily. Feed at least twice a day one to one and half cups total.

Points for Good Health

High Energy

Games and Exercises

With the athleticism of the Min Pin taking precedence over the less active Pug, the Muggin is a fairly active dog. The Muggin is also not effective by the Pug’s difficulty with heat and cold. They love to go on long walks and need exercise to keep from being bored and destructive. However, remember there is a Pug in your Muggin and if she is not into exercise don’t try to get her to do more than she can.

You do want your Muggin to get enough exercise to fend off any tendency to be overweight. They are good at agility, jogging, obedience and watchdog activities.

Regular Brushing of the Silky Hair

australian silky terrier dogs - caringThe long, straight coat of the Silky will need a fair amount of brushing each day. This dog is considered a hypoallergenic breed, and although he doesn’t shed a lot, the length of the hair will require regular brushing to get rid of loose hairs but also ensure there is no tangling of the hair. If the hair of the dog is kept long, he may require a bath every now and then to keep his hair silky and clean and to get rid of dirt build-up.

Nutrition and Diet

A healthy, nutritional diet is important for keeping your canine friend healthy and free from disease and unhealthy skin. To stay health your pet will require correct amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Dog food companies make different types of dog food such as dry, semi-moist, and moist and these are available for dogs of different ages, activity levels and stage of life. Speak to your vet about selecting a dog food that is right for your Australian Silky Terrier and always ensure a bowl of fresh water is available to him.

Basic Information

Group:
Companion dog
Toy dog
Origin:
United States
Australia
Height Male:
10 - 14 cm
3 - 6 inches
23 - 26 cm
9 - 11 inches
Height Female:
8 - 10 cm
3 - 4 inches
20 - 25 cm
7 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
12 - 22 kg
26 - 49 pounds
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
Weight Female:
10 - 20 kg
22 - 45 pounds
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 8
3 - 5
Size:
Small dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Carlin Pinscher Pug Miniature Pinscher Mix, , Pug-Pin, Pugscher, Min Pin Pug Mix
Silky Terrier, Sydney Silky
Colors Available:
brown, black, golden, white and everything in between , cream
blue/tan, grey/blue and cream.
Coat:
short and fine
long, straight and silky
Shedding:
Constant
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Loving, Loyal, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
High maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pomeranian vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Maltese vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Pug vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Maltipoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Cockapoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Cavapoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Cavachon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Papillon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Japanese Chin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Miniature English Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Bolognese vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Italian Greyhound vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Jug vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Miniature Pinscher vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Dorgi vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Belgian Griffon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Carlin Pinscher vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Dorkie vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. German Spitz (Klein) vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Doxiepoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Bospin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Bantam Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Damchi vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Lowchen vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Schipperke vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  27. Schweenie vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  28. Pugalier vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  29. Tsvetnaya Bolonka vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  30. Muggin vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  31. Muggin vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  32. Muggin vs Alaskan Klee Kai - Breed Comparison
  33. Muggin vs Coton De Tulear - Breed Comparison
  34. Muggin vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  35. Muggin vs Malti-Pom - Breed Comparison
  36. Muggin vs PekePoo - Breed Comparison
  37. Muggin vs Fruggle - Breed Comparison
  38. Muggin vs Lhasapoo - Breed Comparison
  39. Muggin vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  40. Muggin vs Hawaiian Poi Dog - Breed Comparison
  41. Muggin vs Prazsky Krysarik - Breed Comparison
  42. Muggin vs Kyi-Leo - Breed Comparison
  43. Pug vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  44. Rat Terrier vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  45. Scottish Terrier vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  46. Russell Terrier vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  47. Schnorkie vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  48. Sealyham Terrier vs Muggin - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds