Pug

The Pug is a very old breed

The history of the Pug goes back many centuriies, enjoying great popularity with aristocracy and royalty. He was originally raised as a lap dog or companion dog and was never used in a working capacity. He originated in China and his breeding is related to the Pekingese.

The Pug has a long official history with both the Kennel Club in England and the American Kennel Club and was first registered with both clubs in the 1880's. He has always been a very popular breed, although this has slipped slightly over the last few years. He was rated 14th most popular breed in the United States in 2007 but had dropped to 24th by 2010. He was popular in England as early as the reign of King William II . He owned Pugs and they became the fashionable breed for generations.

This breed is a sturdy little dog, standing about thirteen inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between fourteen and eighteen pounds.

Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment. They are very active indoors and most of their exercise needs can be met with indoor play, but they enjoy daily walks. In common with most of the Toy breeds, the Pug does not make a good guard dog but is quite an efficient watchdog.

There are some health problems which are peculiar to the Pug. The face has many wrinkles and it is necessary to ensure that the creases are kept clean, to avoid infection and discomfort. Because of the shape of the face, he is prone to wheezing, snorting and sneezing. He also snores.

Hip displaysia is particularly common in this breed and the Pug was found to be the second worst affected out of all the recognized breeds.

Grooming The Pug

The pug has a short glossy coat which does not require much brushing or grooming but he sheds very heavily. In view of this, you may find it useful to brush him every day (he's only small, so it won't take long) in a place where you can collect the hair and dispose of it and prevent it getting all over your furniture and carpets. Many pugs enjoy this extra daily attention.

Exercise For The Pug

The Pug does not need a lot of exercise, in fact too much exertion can affect his breathing. He is also very sensitive to the temperature and does not like the cold. He must certainly not be allowed to become over-heated. He will benefit from an occasional short walk, on a leash, because he likes to eat and therefore must not be allowed to become too fat, which will exacerbate all this other health problems. 

Training The Pug

The Pug is not easy to train. He is not particularly intelligent, being ranked in the 57th group, out of 79 groups, as compiled by Dr Stanley Coren who has carried out extensive research into the comparative intelligence of all the recognized dog breeds. (As a group, the Herding dogs, like the Border Collie and the German Shepherd, are by far the most intelligent). The Pug is eager to please you but sometimes he doesn't understand and he can become stubborn, especially if his training becomes repetitious and boring. You will need a gentle, patient approach to get the best out of him.

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 The Pug's Temperament

The Pug has many centuries of breeding as a companion dog and is loyal, devoted, playful and attentive. He loves to be close to his family and relishes cuddles and attention. He is very good with small children and unlike some toy dogs, is sturdy and robust enough to enjoy play and petting. He is a good watchdog but is far too friendly to ever make a guard dog. He will become anxious and disturbed if left alone for long periods, so is not a suitable pet for a family who are all out of the home during the day.