Pugs are great companion dogs; they’re smart, cuddly, and love to play. They do require extra care than other breeds, so keep reading to learn more about this increasingly popular breed.
Pug Breed Guide:
Breed Origin
Pugs are an ancient breed of dog. Their roots date all the way back to 400 B.C. China, where they were bred as companion dogs for the wealthy. The Pug arrived in Europe around the turn of the 16th century, where they quickly became a popular breed. The name Pug comes from the Latin word ‘Pugnus’, meaning ‘clenched fist’.
Physical Characteristics
Pugs are characterized by their distinctive ‘smushed’ snout, wrinkled face, and round body. They have small ears that flop down and a slender, curled tail. Pugs are short-haired dogs, and their fur comes in two color: fawn or black. Their snout and ears are usually black or a dark shade even if the rest of their fur is fawn.
Temperament
Pugs are playful and fun-loving, but also love a good cuddle session, making them perfect for living in an apartment. They’re also known for their silly antics, so prepare for a lot of laughter around this breed. Pugs are very smart, so training and teaching them new tricks is an easy task.
Tips For Raising A Pug
Grooming
Pugs have a double coat, which helps them regulate their body temperature. This also means that they shed A LOT, especially in the Summer. Regularly brushing your Pug will help shed excess fur and avoid getting it all over your furniture. Regularly cleaning the folds of your Pug’s muzzle will also prevent dirt buildup and infections.
Important note: Never shave your Pug’s fur. Doing this removes the fur from the undercoat which helps them adapt different temperatures.
Health Risks
Pugs are a brachycephalic breed. Due to their short muzzles, Pugs are prone to allergies and skin infections. They also have breathing issues, which include wheezing and snoring. Keep your Pug indoors during extreme hot or cold weather. Make sure they don’t overdo it during playtime and keep tabs on their weight and diet.
Written by Vincent M.
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