Description
The Pug is a small, stocky, square and thick set dog. They are keen, with a happy-go lucky attitude. These sturdy little puppies were bred for companionship so they are loyal, loving and affectionate with their family. Strong-minded and confident, Pugs can be willful if they sense that they are stronger-minded than the people around them. They need an owner who is calm yet firm and confident. Consistent training will ensure this smart breed does not bore and can reach his or her full, amazing potential. Discover more about our Pug puppies for sale below.
History
The Pug is one of the oldest breeds known today, believed to have originated before 400 BC. Most researchers agree that the Pug originated in Asia and descended from the shorthaired Pekingese. Some speculate they are the result of a small Bulldog or a miniature form of the French Mastiff. Regardless, the breed rose to popularity during the Victorian era in the 19th century. Tibetan monasteries often kept Pugs as pets around this time. In Japan and Europe the breed not only became a pet of royalty, but the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland. There have been many famous Pugs throughout history, including Prince William II’s Pugs and Napoleon’s wife Josephine’s Pug named Fortune.
Disposition
The Pug is a devoted dog. They crave the love and attention of their owners and will be unhappy if that is not reciprocated. This is a puppy that is happiest when in your lap or showing off to their family. These little dogs tend to be rather sedentary, content to sit in your lap and chill. This doesn’t mean they are boring! These playful, silly puppies light up the room, living it up and pleasing the crowd with their silly antics.
Of course, temperament is affected by a number of factors including training and socialization, and a Pug puppy will do best with early socialization and puppy training. Taking your puppy to classes, inviting regular visitors, and taking them to busy parks and stores for walks will polish their social skills and create a well-rounded dog.
The Pug is not a guard dog, hunter or retriever. They love to play but certainly have a mind of their own. This enthusiastic dog is fun-loving and “a lot of dog in a little body.” They can be greedy eaters and will overeat if given the chance. Be sure to monitor their food intake as they can gain weight easily.
Training
All breeds benefit from early socialization and basic obedience training. The Pug can be stubborn, so it is important to assert yourself as the leader by being confident and strong-minded yourself. They can be sensitive so using positive reinforcement is the best method and a firm “no” when they are misbehaving.
Pug puppies are wonderful pets for the family and their lively personalities make them great playmates. They don’t require a great deal of exercise (nor can they tolerate it) and they cannot live outside on their own. Because of the Pug’s great love for people, you will need to put some care into getting them accustomed to being alone so they don’t develop excessive anxiety when they have to be alone. Get them used to it bit by bit as a puppy and be sure they have plenty of toys to keep them entertained while you are gone.
If you devote yourself to a Pug, they are relatively low maintenance dogs. They do not require a lot of grooming nor do they need a lot of exercise. Just pay special attention to their wrinkles and breathing needs, and you will have a happy Pug!
Exercise
This breed is good for apartment life as they are relatively inactive indoors and do okay without a yard. They cannot tolerate hot or cold weather very well so it is best to keep them indoors at a comfortable temperature. Pug puppies are strong with short-legs and they will need to be taken on daily walks. When walking your Pug, make sure to make the dog heel beside or behind the person with the leash, as their instincts will tell them to lead the way. They also enjoy playing energetic games and will do well if you can give them regular exercise. Be careful to not overdo it with your Pug, or you will see them start to wheeze.
Grooming
The coat on a Pug is short, smooth and double coated. They are above average shedders. Regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. A monthly bath is enough, though some bathe more frequently. Regular nail trimming is essential since these household dogs don’t wear their nails down outside as some other active breeds do. Cleaning their ears is also a good idea.
The most attention you will need to give your pug is their wrinkles. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after a cleaning, and wiped between baths.
Additionally, special attention must be given to your Pug’s eyes. Their “bug” eyes protrude, so they are vulnerable to injury and irritation from soaps and chemicals. The rest is basic care, keep their teeth clean and brush that fur!
Clubs, Registration & Associations
(Based on breed recognition. See store for details on a particular puppy.)
- American Canine Association
- The American Canine Registry
- American Kennel Club
- Australian National Kennel Club
- American Pet Registry Inc.
- Continental Kennel Club
- Canadian Kennel Club
- Dog Registry of American, Inc.
- Federation Cynologique Internationale
- Kennel Club of Great Britain
- North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
- National Kennel Club
- United Kennel Club
Additional Information
Group: Toy
Average Weight: 14-18 lbs.
Personality Traits: Affectionate, lazy, silly and playful
Country of Origin: United States
Coat: Smooth and short, fawn, black, apricot, silver
Check out the puppies we currently have in our stores. If there are none here, please contact us and we’ll be in touch.
