Pug

Description:

The Pug or Chinese Pug is a sturdy small dog that is one of the most popular and largest of the toy dog breeds. Pug puppies rank 10+ out of 10 on the cuteness scale. Pugs are readily identifiable by their: flat face; pug nose; large and round head with a wrinkled muzzle; loose but not wrinkled skin; and a distinctive tail that curls tightly over one hip. The Pug’s outer coat is short, soft and glossy with a very fine under coat. The color can be black, silver, or apricot fawn and all varieties have a black mask and ears. The Pug is well muscled with straight legs and a slightly rolling gait. This small dog breed stands about 10 to 11 inches tall at shoulder height and should weigh from 14 to 18 pounds. The Pug is a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Toy Dog Group.

History:

The Pug is thought to be of Chinese origin and many historians think its development pre-dated the Christian era. See our article on “The Year of the Dog” to learn about other dog breeds of Chinese origin. This small dog breed was highly prized by the Emperors of China and lived a pampered existence – at times even guarded by soldiers. Dutch traders brought Pugs to Holland in the 16th century where the breed underwent further refinement. When William III went to England to become King in 1688 he brought along several Pugs. This small dog breed was extremely popular in the European courts and was a favorite of Queen Josephine of France and Queen Victoria of England. Today the Pug is a very popular companion dog and was ranked 12th out of 154 dog breeds in 2004 AKC registrations.

Temperament:

This charming, adorable and playful small dog will make you laugh. The Pug is an even tempered, easygoing, pleasant and friendly companion. This sturdy, small dog breed gets along well with children and with other pets although toddlers and small children should be supervised carefully to ensure they don’t injure the dog. The Pug doesn’t need much training but enjoys the process and is fairly easy to train. Pugs can be difficult to housebreak in rainy or cold weather but you must persevere. Pugs are very childlike and always want to be with you. They are very easy to spoil but somehow manage to keep their sweet disposition. Pugs make fairly good watchdogs and will give their strange bark when strangers approach. Pugs do fine with novice or first-time dog owners. See additional information on choosing a Pug.

Exercise:

Pugs are low maintenance dog breeds and get enough exercise playing indoors. They are well suited for apartment living. Pugs have a tendency to put on weight and should be taken for walks when the weather isn’t too hot. Pugs are short-muzzled dogs and suffer breathing problems in hot and humid conditions. Pugs love to be air conditioned in warm weather. Pugs have trachea that are subject to injury so a harness is recommended instead of a collar.

Grooming:

Pugs require little grooming but they are heavy shedders for their size. Brush regularly with a bristle brush or grooming glove. The folds in their face should be cleaned on a daily basis. Bathe monthly with a natural and mild shampoo – rinsing thoroughly..

Health Issues:

Pugs can be expected to live for about 12years. The shortened muzzle (referred to as brachiocephalic) can cause breathing problems in hot and humid climates and air gulping, which can give him gas. Pugs can be heavy snorers and this small breed’s bulging eyes can be easily scratched. Watch for dental problems because of the slightly undershot jaw and brush teeth regularly to prevent gum disease. Pugs have a number of common health problems which include: eye disorders such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eyes) and entropion; fold dermatitis; pug encephalitis; and orthopedic problems such as luxating patella and Legg –Perthes (hip joint disease). Explanations of many of these diseases can be found in our article “Hereditary Diseases in Dogs”. Because Pugs have small litters there may be a significant wait time to buy a puppy. Don’t take a short cut and buy from pet shop or an unscrupulous breeder selling puppies that have a number of
genetic problems. Always buy from a reputable breeder and always ask to see the parent’s OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) orthopedic screening results as well as the recent CERF (Canine Eye Registry) results for eye diseases.
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Article type: xdogbreed