The Pug, as it is known in different countries, is a very popular dog breed around the world. These animals are characterized by being friendly and adapting quickly to the family environment.
However, they need special care. Are you interested in learning more about this breed? Continue reading the article.
- Height: 10 inches to 1 foot, 2 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
- Life span: 12 - 14 years.
- It is ideal for: Houses, flats, apartments, children.
Origin of the pug dog breed
As is often the case, the origin of the Pug is controversial and uncertain. What we do know is that it comes from China, but no one can say for certain which dogs are its predecessors.Some suggest that it may be related to the Pekingese and other similar dogs, while others believe it could be a relative of larger dogs, such as some molossers.
What is certain is that, along with the Pekingese, Pugs were among the favorite dogs in Tibetan monasteries. It is believed that Dutch merchants may have brought Pugs to Europe during their travels from China, leading to their presence first in France and England, and later throughout the continent.
Since then, Pugs have been adored by thousands of people in Europe and the United States, considered excellent companion dogs as well as show dogs. It could be said that there is a general fascination with this breed in Europe.
Physical Characteristics of the Pug Breed
The pug is a small-sized dog with a chubby, compact, and strongly muscled body. It has a large, round head covered with wrinkles, a very flat snout, and sweet, round, large, and dark eyes. The pug also has small ears that can either be folded back, known as "ears in pink," or folded forward, called "button ears" that point towards the eyes.The pug's tail is curled, preferably twice, over its back. Its short hair is soft and shiny and comes in various shades, including silvery white, black, fawn, and orange. The muzzle and other facial details are black.
Character of the pug breed
The pug has the perfect temperament for a companion dog, being affectionate, cheerful, lively, and devoted to their family. They have a tendency to seek attention, but are not excessively mischievous.They are relatively easy to socialize and get along well with people and other animals. However, when playing with children, it is important to monitor their playtime as excessive play can cause harm or distress to the pug.
Pugs are generally good-natured and calm, with few behavioral issues. However, if left alone for extended periods, they may develop separation anxiety, leading to destructive or nervous behavior. They require constant companionship and both physical and mental stimulation.
Pugs make ideal pets for all types of people, whether living alone or in a family with older children. They are also a great choice for inexperienced pet owners looking for their first dog. However, they are not recommended for families with very young children who may not yet understand how to treat a dog with respect.
Pug dog breed care
The pug is not a dog that requires a lot of time invested in care, but that does not mean that we can forget about their needs. It will be necessary, for example, to brush their coat once or twice a week to keep it healthy and shiny, free of dirt and dead hair.Keep in mind that they tend to shed a lot of hair; if you want to prevent your house from getting full of hair, brush your pug as much as possible. Bathing should not be very frequent, only when they are really dirty. Pay attention to their wrinkles! It is best to clean them with a damp cloth and dry them thoroughly to avoid the appearance of fungi and other skin infections.
We should not demand intense exercise from pugs. Moderate walks a couple of times a day, complemented with appropriate games inside or outside the home, are enough to meet their physical needs. Beware of thermal shocks, especially if you live in an area with a very hot and humid climate.
To finish the section on care, we would like to emphasize the importance of companionship for this breed. Pugs are not well-suited for people who spend most of the day away from home, as they require constant attention and affection. Excessive loneliness can make them sad and destructive.
However, this does not mean that you cannot leave your pug alone at all. A normal daily routine, such as 8 hours of work and leisure time on weekends, is acceptable. However, we recommend against leaving a pug alone for an entire day or longer periods.
Despite their need for company, pugs are very adaptable and can thrive in various types of environments, including densely populated urban areas.
In terms of training, pugs are easy to socialize and train using positive reinforcement techniques. Clicker training is particularly effective. Treats can be used as rewards, but be careful not to overfeed your pug and monitor their weight. While dogs love treats, they should not be overindulged.
Related: Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
The most common pug dog health problems
The pug is usually a fairly healthy dog, but its main problem should be highlighted: the short snout. This funny feature has its negative side and can negatively affect the health of the pug. Some pathologies related to this are respiratory problems, elongated soft palate, stenotic nares, patellar luxation, entropion, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.On the other hand, they occasionally present cases of epilepsy and eye injuries, the latter due to their bulging eyes.
Last but not least, as we have already mentioned, beware of their diet! Pugs tend to gain weight easily, and if left unchecked, this can lead to canine obesity, which can have very negative consequences for their health. Avoid giving too many treats and feed them an appropriate diet for their age and size. If you can find a specific food for pugs, even better.
