Pug Overview

Most Pugs are depicted as comic relief in today’s movies. Consider Frank, the wise-cracking alien-Pug hybrid in the 1997 film Men in Black. Not surprising in the least, for one look at the Pug’s comically exaggerated body will encourage a giggle from even the most humorless critic. 

The dog is a natural clown on the inside, as well, always ready to play with dog and human alike. However, the Pug tends to forget what it learns, making training somewhat of a chore. 

And its severely flattened face makes it vulnerable to a great number of health problems such as breathing problems, joint dislocation, dysplasia, spinal deformities, ear infections (if not properly cleaned), and eye problems. 

The Pug is a perfect travel-sized companion that can live upwards of 15 years. But prospective owners should look elsewhere if the possibility of high veterinary bills is a legitimate concern.

Pug History

Much of the Pug’s renowned personality comes from the fact that it was bred for nothing other than companionship. It is humorously rumored that the dog’s original purpose was to be a foot-warmer for extravagant Chinese aristocracy. 

The Pug Dog’s history can be traced all the way to China in the first century B.C., owned and traded as gifts by Chinese royalty. The first European Pug record comes from the Dutch East India Company, which frequently traded goods for exotic Eastern goods. 

The term “Pug” is said to have originated from the Latin word pugnus, meaning clenched fist, and applied to the dog’s spherical head. Recently, the Pug’s rise in popularity can be credited to its appearance in American films such as The Adventures of Milo and Otis, Men in Black, and was given special attention in a parody of the Tim Burton remake of Planet of the Apes, aptly titled Planet of the Pugs.

Pug Character

The Pug is ideal for a mellow family. Low exercise requirements are a result of the dog’s limitless energy and propensity for play. Most of the time the dog gets enough exercise bounding around the house and engaging in play, and play it will. Do not be surprised if you find yourself getting “talked” into playing on a regular basis. 

Noise may be a concern for some owners, as the Pug’s clingy nature causes it to pout and whimper if it feels enough attention isn’t paid. And even if the dog is satisfied, it will snore and grunt when sleeping due to its flat face and unnatural nose. Peace and quiet will seldom be found with a Pug in the house. 

Training should be kept to a minimum with this dog. Aside from the necessary housebreaking and obedience training, do not expect the Pug to excel at intellectual tasks. Unless properly trained by a professional, it is best to simply tolerate and appreciate the dog’s quirks.

Pug Care

Grooming wise, the Pug does not require much maintenance. The muzzle area should be cleaned as this breed has the tendency to drool. Under the folds of skin should also be cleaned to avoid any dry or itchy skin. Bathing should only be performed when necessary, as it will remove the natural oils from the skin and coat.

Pug Training

The Pug can be willful at times but is eager to please. Making training fun will be sure to catch this dogs attention and keep it. A variety of training methods work best with the Pug, as they bore quickly. Making training fun will be sure to keep this dogs attention. This is one of the harder breeds to train, so consistency is a must. Obedience training at an early age is recommended to make training more efficient and easier at a later stage in life.

Pug Health

Common Health Issues for the Pug:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Pug:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Pug Resources