Pug
History
- Pugs originated in China in ancient times. They were developed as lap dogs rather than as any sort of working dog.
- The facial wrinkles were an essential breed feature. The vertical forehead wrinkles were thought to resemble the Chinese mark for "Prince."
- Dutch traders brought pugs back from China with them, and Holland subsequently became the pug's adopted homeland.
- The pug became the official dog of the House of Orange because they sounded the alarm at the approach of invading soldiers in 1572.
- Napoleon's wife, Josephine, used her pug to carry messages back and forth when she was imprisoned.
- The pug became the most popular royal dog in England during Victorian times.
- The pug was known as Mopshond in Holland, as Mops in Germany, and as Dutch or Chinese pug in England.
- The AKC recognized the pug in 1885.
- The pug took a while to catch on in America, but it has a steady following and has been among the top 20 breeds for years.
Pug Behavior Concerns
- Makes a devoted and entertaining family member.
- Playful, affectionate and gentle with children, pugs make excellent companions for them.
- Known for its clownish behavior and sense of humor.
- Affectionate and demonstrative.
- Reserved toward strangers.
- Usually good with other dogs and pets.
- Willing to please but doesn't like to be forced, which brings out its stubborn streak.
- Does best with reward-based training with good control and leadership.
Pug Suggested Exercises
- Makes a calm and alert housedog.
- Requires daily exercise in the form of a leisurely walk, very short jog, or quick game. It is not physically suited to overly vigorous exercise.
- Overheats easily.
- Swimming is not recommended, as many pugs cannot stay afloat.
- Obedience and trick training provides essential mental exercise.
Pug Grooming
- The pug's coat is fine, smooth and short. The skin is overly abundant, and wrinkled on the face.
- The coat needs weekly brushing to remove dead hair.
- Wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections.
- Shedding is above average.
Suggested Pug Nutritional Needs
- Pugs have a tendency to become obese.
- Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.
