PUG DOG BREED INFORMATION

Description

The snub nosed pug is the epitome of compact dogs. Its small, chubby, cubic frame gives the Pug’s body a robust, muscular appearance. The Pug’s large, round head is covered by abundant skin that creases on its forehead forming a number of shallow wrinkles. Its characteristically short muzzle harbours a black snub of a nose, and also results in an undershot lower jaw. Its large, round, dark eyes are very expressive, which reflect the dog’s mood. Ears are small and flop forward in one of two ways to either form a button ear or a rose ear. The Pug’s strong neck has a slight arch and bears the head in a proud manner, bridging it to its short, chubby body. The Pug’s robust body is characterised by a straight back and a broad chest with no tuck at the belly, giving the pug a barrel like appearance. Both the Pug’s strong front and hind limbs are straight and fall well under the Pug’s body, allowning for a stable, powerful posture. The Pug’s double curled tail is set high on its rump and lies flat on its rump or back.

Origin

China.

Look

Pugs come in silver, apricot, fawn and black colourations. Pugs must always have a black mask on their face and a black stripe called a trace, which starts from the back of their head and ends at the base of their tail. A pug’s coat is surprisingly smooth and soft, and it is made up of many fine, short hairs that give the coat a reflective sheen when in direct light. Being a short haired dog breed, the pug needs minimal grooming and its coat is easy to maintain. The pug is also a prolific shedder, and therefore, if you harbour strong feelings against hair sticking to your clothes and furniture, frequent brushing using a rubber horse brush is recommended to keep the pug’s shedding under control.

Health problems

The Pug is prone to suffering from a number of breed associated conditions. However, the best breeding lines do not necessarily have to suffer from these conditions. These conditions are:

• Brachycephalic syndrome
• Obesity
• Allergies
• Pug Dog Encephalitis

Given the number and severity of the above conditions, it is recommended that Pugs visit a veterinarian at least once yearly. These yearly check-ups make sure that some of the above conditions are caught at an early stage, and therefore prevent such conditions from worsening through proper management and treatment. It is also suggested that Pug owners protect their dogs from being over exposed to the elements, since it is easier for them to catch a cold. High temperatures also enhance the effects of brachycephalic syndrome resulting in the dog’s impaired breathing. Strict monitoring of a pug’s diet will ensure that the dog does not become obese, and this in turn leads to a longer, healthier life. At Newdoggy.com we promote puppies coming from reputable breeders, who use genetic testing and good breeding practices to remove genetic conditions from their breeding lines. Newdoggy.com’s Health Guarantee certifies that all promoted puppies are in good health.

Learning rate

Pugs like variety and get bored and disinterested really easily, making this breed particularly difficult to train. It is therefore recommended that they start learning basic commands as early as possible. Including Pugs in one’s social life allows owners to take advantage of random situations, and turns everyday events into unique learning experiences. Pugs should not be expected to learn commands as fast as other dog breeds, since it is not in their nature to feel the need to appease their owners. Most owners are happy to have a well behaved, house broken Pug that knows most basic commands. Pugs do not take well to the highly structured methodologies used in obedience classes and it is therefore unheard of for Pugs to compete in such dog sports. Having said that, Pugs are not dull or stupid, but simply require more time consuming, fun methods in order to learn. It is worth noting that what Pugs lack in will to learn, they more than make up for through their funny, loving nature.

Temperament

These dogs are usually very loving and affectionate, but can be whimsical and obstinate when they have a soft owner. It is therefore an imperative to keep Pugs disciplined in order to avoid the development of Small Dog Syndrome. Small Dog Syndrome can manifest itself in jealousy and possessive behaviour such as food aggression. Fortunately Pugs are very receptive to the tone of their master’s voice, and it is therefore very rare that these dogs need anything more than verbal punishment to put them back in line. Pugs are usually easy going, jolly and affectionate, making this dog breed fun to be around. Their playful nature means that they are always up to something, a trait that many owners find to be of constant entertainment.

Living with

Pugs adapt well to the comfortable apartment life and do not usually require access to a yard. Pugs should only be housed indoors since they are particularly susceptible to high or low temperatures. Despite their stature, they still need regular exercise and therefore need daily walks and ample playtime in order to keep healthy and stay in shape. These dogs are sociable and can live amicably with other animals. They also cherish the company of other dogs.