What is a Pug Dog? [breed charactistics, personality, temperament]

Pugs are small, high-energy dogs, with flat faces, deep wrinkles, and curly tails that are guaranteed to make you smile. An ancient breed, Pugs most likely come from China with their origins dating back almost 2000 years! These funny-looking dogs have interesting personalities making them very popular pets.

If you are thinking about bringing home a Pug or just want to learn more about this amazing dog keep reading!

what is a pug life expectancy — **What is a Pug Life Expectancy**?

History of the Pug Dog

Not many dog breeds have a longer and more interesting history than the Pug! As the story goes, Pugs were originally pets in Tibetan monasteries.

Dating back centuries, unlike most other dog breeds, a Pug’s whole purpose in life seems to have always been for human companionship.

How Did The Pug Get Its Name?

While there really is no sure answer to this question a couple of theories stand out.

One is that the Pug got its name from a resemblance to the Marmoset monkey that has similar-looking facial wrinkles.

Another idea is that ‘Pug’ was derived from the Latin phrase ‘Pugnus’ which implies the vision of a hand with its fingers curled up. Ok, that could resemble the wrinkles on a Pug’s face!

What Dog Breeds Make Up a Pug?

The best guess is that Pugs are descendants of the Pekingese breed and the bulldog breed but whatever the case, they truly are man’s best friend!

What Were Pugs Bred For?

Well, these purebred dogs were originally bred for companionship for the Chinese Royalty. Some even suggest the wrinkles on a Pug’s face were bred to look like written Chinese characters.

Almost every Pug owner will agree that they live up to their breed’s original purpose. As these dogs are very loving and loyal lap dogs that make great companions.

However, China isn’t the only royalty who loves this breed of dog. They have been companions to the royals in many countries.

Queen of England Gets a Pug

Originally brought by Dutch traders to Europe the Pug quickly became a favorite of England’s Queen Victoria! The Queen loved Pugs so much it was said she even bred these dogs herself!

It is said she had at least 38 Pugs over the course of her reign as Queen!

Pug Characteristics

The Pug is a very unique dog with unique and fascinating characteristics.

Pug Appearance

Pugs have a small stature, a curly tail, prominent wrinkles, bug eyes, and a flat roundish expressive face.

Pug Size

Most Pugs stand about 10 to 12 inches tall.

A Pug’s average weight is anywhere between 14 to 19 pounds. Their full-grown weight depends on many factors such as diet, age, and gender.

Is a Pug a Toy Dog?

Yes, a Pug is considered to be in the toy breeds category because of its small size.

Pug Personality

A Pug’s personality is one of its most amazing traits! They are very loving and sweet lap dogs that crave attention.

Their loyalty and love towards their owners are by far what makes this breed so desirable.

Are Pugs Dumb Dogs?

Well, smart is sometimes subjective and that is how I feel about Pugs.

Some people think Pugs are dumb just because of the way they look and their happy-go-lucky, sometimes silly personality but they are quick to catch on to things in my opinion.

Officially, Pugs don’t rank very high on the smartest breeds list. In fact, they only come in at 108th on the list but Pugs are quick to adapt and figure out things so they can’t be dumb.

Is it Hard to Train a Pug?

In general, Pugs are not the easiest dogs to train.

This is probably due in part to their energetic personality and penchant for always checking out what is going on around them so they are easily distracted.

Are Pugs Easy to Potty Train?

Pugs can be easy to potty train as long as you keep a consistent schedule. Without consistency and persistence, your Pug will not understand what you are trying to do.

Therefore make sure to have a regular schedule, and whenever they have an accident simply put them outside afterward to help teach them.

Having potty pads in the house near a door is also a good idea! That way if an accident does occur they are at least doing it near the outdoors where they are supposed to go.

Pug Coat Colors

Pugs come in a variety of colors.

Black
Fawn
Apricot
Silver Fawn

Does a Pug Have a Double or Single Fur Coat?

Yes! Pugs can have a double coat or a single coat of fur.

Where Can You Find a Pug?

The Pug Dog Club of America, as well as the American Kennel Club (AKC), have breeder directory boards that you can check. This will direct you to reputable breeders local to your area.

This way you can get a Pug with good genetic background and a healthy temperament.

You also have the option of adopting from a local shelter if they happen to have a Pug available.

How Much Does a Pug Cost?

From a reputable breeder, Pug puppies cost anywhere from $1,200 to $2,500. However, the price of a Pug ultimately depends on many factors and can vary.

The color could affect the price of your Pug puppy as well as genealogy. Please check with a local breeder to be positive about what a Pug puppy might cost you in your area.

Pug Health Issues

Pugs face a lot of health issues unlike many other breeds of dogs. Although they are purebred, this doesn’t guarantee that they will be free of health problems.

Pug Health issues include, but are not limited to:

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome
Obesity
Dog Encephalitis

Here is a brief explanation and more details about these potential health issues for your Pug.

What is Patellar Luxation?

Patella refers to the knee bone, and Luxation means to be dislocated or out of place.

That being said, a Luxating Patella is when the knee moves out of place. This can happen in other breeds of dogs as well but is very common in Pugs.

What is Hip Dysplasia?

The hip joint is a ball and socket that should fit perfectly in place.

However, when a dog has hip dysplasia the ball and socket grind and rubs together. This causes deterioration and can cause a loss of function and pain over a long period of time.

What is Dog Encephalitis?

In short, this is a disease that causes inflammation of the brain. It is a debilitating and fatal disease and the cause is unknown.

What is Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome?

Pugs are famous for having breathing problems. The shape of the dog’s short snout and short nose causes a breathing obstruction. These dogs are referred to as brachycephalic dogs.

This breathing problem is also shared with other breeds that also have a similar-shaped flat face with a short muzzle.

Dogs with this issue typically have an easier time breathing through their mouths than their noses. This condition isn’t fatal, however, it does significantly impact the dog throughout its life.

What Other Breeds are Considered Brachycephalic Dogs?

Boxers
Bulldogs
Boston Terriers
Cane Corsos
Chow Chows
Japanese Chins
Lhasa Apsos
Pekingese Dogs
Shih Tzu Dogs
Toy Spaniels

Pug Health-Related Questions

What Type of Exercise do Pugs Need?

It is very important to make sure your Pug gets the daily exercise it needs to help prevent obesity and other common medical issues.

Here are some examples of basic and enjoyable exercises you can do with your Pug to keep them strong and healthy.

Walks
Playing Fetch
Running outside
Swimming

Do Pug’s Wrinkles Need Regular Cleaning?

Yes, Pugs’ wrinkles need to be regularly cleaned to prevent infection. Chafing of the skin folds can cause raw skin.

This becomes an issue because then bacteria and yeast can build up in a wound and cause infection. Therefore, a Pug’s wrinkles require regular cleaning to prevent infection.

You can buy medicated wipes sold over the counter from pet stores and many online shops.

What is a Pug’s Lifespan?

A Pug’s average lifespan is 12-15 years old but varies depending on genetics. Factors such as environment, diet, and overall condition of health play a role in how long your Pug will live.

What Should Pugs Eat?

Pugs can eat a variety of kibble and canned food options.

If you’re uncertain of which to choose, I’d recommend finding food with high protein that also contains veggies in the ingredient list. Food formulated for small dogs is a good choice.

If you’re still uncertain about what to feed your Pug contact your veterinarian for advice.

Pug Temperament

These dogs are usually laid back, love attention, and are super friendly. They have a super chill temperament and are amazing for people who want a relaxed, but excited and happy pet.

Are Pugs Aggressive?

No, they are not known for being aggressive. However, every dog and every situation is unique.

Make sure to adopt from a reputable breeder. That way you know and understand the behavioral and temperamental history of the puppy you are bringing home.

Are Pugs Good Dogs?

Yes, Pugs do have a reputation for being good dogs. It seems every Pug owner says they are loyal, and make great companions and lapdogs.

If you’re looking for a dog to cuddle with, then the Pug would make a great pet for you.

Are Pugs Good With Kids?

Pugs tend to be affectionate, friendly, and loving towards children. Many Pug owners feel they make the perfect family pet.

If you’re looking for a good breed of dog to have around children I would say that this breed would be a good choice.

Pugs are loving, affectionate, caring, social, and friendly dogs, all wonderful traits for being great family dogs.

Are Pugs Hypoallergenic?

Pugs are not hypoallergenic. This breed tends to shed hair frequently. However, with regular brushing, their shedding should be controllable and not an issue.

How Frequently Do Pugs Need to Be Bathed?

Pugs usually need to be bathed once a month to keep their coat nice and clean. Be sure not to over-bathe your pup, as that can result in dry and itchy skin.

You can also take them to a professional groomer for standard bathing, and nail trimming if needed.

Can Pugs Be Left Alone?

Yes, Pugs can be left alone just like any other breed of dog. However, these dogs may not be as happy with this as others as they rely a lot on the companionship of a human.

Overall, yes they can be left at home, but they won’t be happy about it.

Are Male or Female Pugs better?

Well, there is no official answer to this question as this is based on your preference! The temperament varies between each individual dog as well.

Do Pugs Like to Cuddle?

Yes, Pugs do like to cuddle. Since they were bred to be companion dogs they are very cuddly and love the attention of humans.

Are Pugs Lazy?

Yes, Pugs can be lazy and stubborn when it comes to getting out of bed. They are known for their love of sleeping all day long!

Therefore, make sure to get your Pug exercising at least once or twice a day to keep them from becoming overweight.

Do Pugs’ Eyes Pop Out of Place?

Yes, a Pug’s eyes can pop out of place due to their bulging eyes, short snout, and shallow eye sockets. However, this would probably only occur due to blunt trauma.

This shouldn’t happen frequently though and if it does call your vet right away as this could be a serious health concern for your Pug.

What are Pugs Most Well Known For?

Pugs are most well known for being sociable and friendly companion dogs who are loving, loyal, and kind pets to their owners.

Overall, they are sweet, cuddly, and adorable little smooshed face dogs who are well known for being great pets.

Why do Pugs Have Squished Faces?

Chinese breeders purposefully bred them this way. They were attempting to make the wrinkles into a pattern.

The story is that these early Pug breeders were trying to make the wrinkles look like a Chinese character meaning “prince”.

Pug Names

If you have a Pug dog you need a good Pug dog name for them! Here are some popular Pug names.

Bella
Emma
Gigi
Jake
Luna
Max
Olive
Otis
Princess
Ralph
Rocco
Tucker
Zoe

Conclusion

Pugs are very unique and interesting animals with a rich historical background and make great family pets.

They are known for their engaging personality and is a fun pet to have in your home. This all makes a Pug one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.