Everything You Want to Know About Pugs
Pugs are among the oldest dog breeds in the world, dating back to 400 BCE. They’re an ancient breed with very particular personalities and traits. The "official" motto of the breed is multum in parvo in Latin, which means “much in a small space”.
Origins
Its origin dates back to China before 400 BC. It is still debated which breeds it evolved from, its closest relatives include the large Molossoid dogs and the Pekingese or similar dogs. These dogs were, along with the Pekingese, favorite companions in Tibetan monasteries. They were so highly valued by Chinese Emperors that the royal dogs were guarded by soldiers and provided every luxury.
Their introduction to European culture was likely via Holland by Dutch merchants. Later they made their way to the United States. Pugs are well regarded as charming companion dogs and excellent show dogs. They’ve even starred in movies and television shows.
Characteristics
Pugs are short-bodied, plump, compact dogs. Despite being small dogs, pugs are muscular animals. Their head is typically large, round, and wrinkled with a short, square snout. Their dark, bulging eyes are generally offset at the rear by the tail, which is set high and strongly curled above the hip. They have two distinct shapes for their ears, 'rose' and 'button'. ‘Rose’ ears are folded with the front edge against the side of the head and are smaller than the standard "button" ears.
Pugs are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, with a height usually between 9.8 and 12 inches. Their ideal weight ranges from 14 to 18 lb. Their life expectancy is usually between 10 and 15 years.
Pugs are exceptionally clean little dogs with hardly any doggy odor. They shed, but their short, smooth coat requires minimal maintenance. Weekly brushing will remove loose hair and keep their coat looking its best.
The Pug's bark is surprisingly deep relative to its size. It should be noted that if you are a light sleeper, it is worth keeping in mind that while not all pugs snore, many do.
Temperament and behavior
The temperament of the pug is typical of a companion dog. They are affectionate, happy and playful. They have a strong personality and crave attention, While they enjoy constant company, they have reliable, stable behavior.
Pugs are very playful dogs, and they need moderate exercise, with daily walks and moderate play time. However, we must be careful not to require them to exercise very intensely, since their flattened snout and robust structure make them susceptible to thermal shock, especially in hot and humid climates.
These dogs are easy to socialize and, properly socialized, they tend to get along with adults, children, other dogs and other animals.
Health
Despite being a small dog, the pug tends to be healthy, with the exception of potential respiratory problems caused by its short muzzle. The breed does not present canine diseases with exaggerated incidences, but does present with elongated palate, stenotic nostrils, patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and entropion with some frequency. Occasionally there are also cases of epilepsy.
Because of their prominent eyes and flattened face, they are prone to eye injuries. Also, due to their robust structure, they tend to develop obesity, so you must be mindful of their diet and facilitate adequate daily exercise.
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