Pug

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Pug Profile

Description: The Pug is a celebrity dog, often appearing in movies and television as a comical character. The Pug is stubby and muscular with a wide chest, straight, very strong front legs and well-muscled hind legs. They have that "smashed in" face that many of the Asian breeds posses, and a tail that curls over the back. They often have a black mask and tan fur, and they also come in black, apricot, silver, and fawn. They receive their name "Pug" from the Latin word that means "clenched fist". To communicate with humans Pugs make a grunting nasal noise, somewhat like a pig. They often snort and sneeze. Being snuggled down at your feet snoring or being close to you, without being obtrusive, are some of Pugs' favorite activities. Pugs are dogs who tends to make people smile because they are convinced of their own importance. They can be determined in their attitude and will not stop until they get what they want. They are affectionate, alert, and patient dogs. Pugs are adaptable, sociable and good-natured. They have a strong personality meant for a family seeking an amusing and unique companion. Pugs have been called “an acquired habit”.

Other Names: Mops (Germany), Carlin (France), Lo-Sze (China), Mopshond (Holland)

Height: 10 - 11 inches.
Weight: 13 - 18 lbs.

Colors: Silver, apricot, fawn or black. The fawn colored Pugs often have a black mask and ears and black trace along the back.
Coat: Fine, smooth, short and glossy. They have a single coat, instead of a double coat.

Temperament: Pugs are loyal, affectionate, quiet and docile. They are often vivacious and teasing. They like to do whatever it takes to get what they want, often using playful or clever tactics. They are vibrant, very lively and love to play. They are rather independent, strong willed and even forceful for such a little dog. Pugs are amusing, witty and rarely show any aggression. They get along well with children and other animals, often becoming curious of odd or different beings.
With Children: Yes, playful and loving.
With Pets: Yes, will get along well with other family pets and dogs.
Special Skills: Family pet

Watch-dog: Medium. They are alert, but can be quite quiet in the home.
Guard-dog: Low. This breed may try to defend, but they are rather small and unthreatening.

Pug Care and Exercise: Pugs needs special care during hot, humid weather because of their short nose. Do not leave Pugs out in the hot sun, as they can easily overheat. Nails and teeth need weekly attention. Pugs shed a lot and need brushing at least twice a week. Bathe them as necessary. Wash the eyes two to three times a week, as their large eyes can get infection or damage easily. They also need regular cleaning of their wrinkles. The Pug needs more than the required exercise for Toy dogs. Owners warn that this breed easily becomes obese, which can be a serious health problem, especially with such a short snout. The Pug will enjoy a romp outdoors, or a walk around the block. Be aware, however, that this breed is also sensitive to strenuous exercise, and should not be over-exercised, as it is difficult for them to breathe. Daily, consistent, and non-strenuous exercise is the key.
Training: Pugs respond well to basic training but need a gentle hand. They will be sensitive to your tone of voice, so harsh punishment is unnecessary.
Learning Rate: High. Obedience – Medium. Problem Solving – Low.

Activity: Low.
Special Needs: Avoid strenuous exercise, protection from the heat, and wrinkle cleaning.
Living Environment: Pugs are well suited to live in an apartment, provided they get adequate exercise. An owner of a Pug should be a patient leader who desires a small, loving dog as a companion. They are very adaptable dogs.

Pug Health Issues: Pugs can suffer from luxating patellas, skin problems, deformities of the mouth and nose, eye and eyelid problems, heatstroke, hip dysplasia, Legg-Perthes disease, epilepsy, and Pug Dog Encephalitis.

Life Span: 12 - 14 years.
Litter Size: 2 - 5 puppies.

Country of Origin: China
Pug History: The Pug is said to have originated in China around 400 B.C. From China they managed to make their way to Tibet and Japan, probably as gifts from royalty.  It is possible they may be a scaled down relative of the Tibetan Mastiff, as they were once the pet of Tibetan Monks. They were then taken to Holland, probably en route of the Dutch East India Trading Company, during the 1500s. Because Prince William of Orange, who became William III of Britain, owned these funny little dogs, the breed became highly popular in the 16^th century. The dog eventually became a symbol of those who supported the royal family. Other royalty indulged in the breed, including the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. The breed was standardized in 1883 and the British Pug Dog Club was formed. Only until 1887 were there two different colors of Pugs: the all black Pug and the tan Pug with black facial markings. And Englishwoman named Lady Brassey traveled to Asia and brought back a pair of black Pugs. American fanciers obtain most of their stock from England and they were accepted in 1885 by the AKC.

First Registered by the AKC: 1885
AKC Group: Toy Group
Class: Toy
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC(GB), UKC

Pugs

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