Pug
The Pug is a unique animal that is both loyal and charming. Pugs love to engage with friends, other animals, and even strangers, but they love spending time with their owners the most. As small dogs with minimal grooming needs, Pugs make great additions to any size home, even apartments.
History & Origin
The Pug is an extremely old dog that has roots in China, where they were originally called Lo-sze or “Foo Dog.” As the Pug made its way into the Western world, it quickly gained popularity with royal families all across Europe. Despite a brief dip in the popularity of the breed, it is still an extremely common and popular dog all over the world.
Appearance
Pugs are small dogs with very short snouts and a curly tail. Their skull is round and they may even have a bit of an under bite. The colors of a pug do not vary very much, with only two standard color options for the breed. Those colors are either black or fawn, with no marking options for the animal.
Temperament
Pugs are easily trained, making them great contenders in obedience competitions and performances. They also enjoy completing commands they believe will make their owners proud and happy.
The Pug cares deeply about the families that adopt them and will want to do what it can to please them. Pugs enjoy playing and meeting new people, so while they may not make the best watch dog, they are incredibly happy animals that can brighten anyone’s day.
Size
Pugs are small dogs and considered part of the toy group of breeds. Both the male and female Pugs will grow to be about the same size. The dog will be around 10 or 11 inches when they reach full growth and can weigh between 14 pounds and 18 pounds.
It is easy for Pugs to put on weight, so owners who find that their Pug weighs a bit above the standard weight range should discuss dieting options with their vet.
Health
Generally, Pugs are very healthy animals. With the proper feeding and exercise routines, Pugs can stay healthy their entire lives. But as with all breeds, Pugs are still susceptible to developing canine specific diseases and health conditions, including hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.
Pugs may also develop diseases like corneal ulcers, demodectic mange, and hemivertebrae. Pugs are also prone to developing Pug Dog Encephalitis, which is an inflammatory brain disease unique to Pugs.
Owners of Pugs should know the signs and symptoms of the common canine disease that can appear in their dogs. Understanding the warning signs can allow their Pug to get the treatment they need as quickly as possible, which better ensures a complete recovery.
To keep Pugs in good health, they will need to make routine visits to the vet. Owners should also ensure their Pugs get all the vaccinations and immunizations they need to stay healthy.
Care
Pugs are not a difficult dog to care for, although they can be stubborn and difficult to deal with sometimes. For the most part, a Pug will want to do whatever it can to please its owner, so it won’t try to act out or otherwise anger their owners.
The Pug is an incredibly social animal. They enjoy meeting new friends, whether they are human or animal, and like to spend time with others. But this also means that they don’t like being alone, so a Pug might not make the best pet for owners who aren’t home to spend time with their animal.
Pugs do not need much exercise, but their need for companionship and entertainment can make them active and energetic. They enjoy exploring and playing with their new friends, but their boxy shape and short snout can make it difficult for the Pug to engage in certain canine activities.
Because Pugs can put on weight easily, owners should ensure to take their dog for frequent walks. If possible, a Pug should be taken on at least a short walk every day. Regular exercise will keep the dog fit and healthy and set them up for a long life.
Feeding
Pugs need to avoid under-eating and overeating to stay fit and healthy. An easy way for owners to ensure they are feeding their dog the proper amount of food is to discuss a feeding schedule with a vet. Setting a proper feeding schedule can ensure the Pug is getting the proper nutrients it needs.
Owners should also look for size or breed specific foods that consider the various needs of the Pug. It should also be noted that dietary needs can change as the Pug ages, so the feeding schedule and food may need to change from year to year.
Pugs will also need access to fresh water at all times.
Grooming
Pugs have a short coat length and will require occasional grooming. While shedding is not necessarily a problem for Pugs, they should still be brushed regularly to keep their coats shiny and the dog feeling comfortable.
A Pug’s nails grow very quickly, so they will need to be trimmed regularly to prevent cracking. As with most dog breeds, Pugs will need their teeth brushed occasionally and their ears checked for dust, debris, or a buildup of wax. When these grooming necessities go ignored, Pugs can develop infections.
Pugs may also need their owners to wipe their face free of snot or drool every so often. The fluids can become trapped in the wrinkles of their face and cause infection or irritation if not properly cleaned away.
Children
Pugs get along very well with children and other family animals. They value companionship and like to have a good time, making them a great best friend for any person, regardless of age.
Because Pugs are so small and loving, they are a great dog to adopt with small children. They are playful and gentle with even the smallest of babies and will create a lifelong bond with their owner.
