There are so many things to know about Pugs we can't list them all but we have put together highlights on their history, personality and health to start with. If you are considering fostering or adopting a Pug from us, this information will be very important for you to know.
HEALTH CONCERNS OF THE PUG
For the most part, pugs tend to be very healthy dogs. Like most dog breeds they are susceptible to some health concerns. Below is a common list of issues but is not limited to them.
Eye disease
Dry, crusty noses (due to their short snout)
Enlarged heart
Collapsing trachea
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
Ear infections
Degenerative Myopathy (degeneration of the hips)
Dental issues (teeth need to be cleaned at LEAST once a year)
Due to the Pugs short muzzles (brachycephalic), this breed experiences anatomical issues such as breathing problems. Unlike other dogs which can efficiently control their body temperature through evaporation via their tongues, Pug cannot control their body temps. Pugs and all other brachycephalic breeds are highly susceptible to heat stroke and the symptoms for overheating can begin with temperatures around 75 degrees. Any temperature above 75, a Pug will not survive. The same goes for cold temps as it prevents them from breathing properly and will become distressed in a very short amount of time. NEVER LEAVE YOUR PUG OUTSIDE FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME DURING EXTREME WEATHER!
Pugs are also prone to obesity so strict diet control is essential and “free feeding” is strongly discouraged.
WHO IS THIS FUNNY LITTLE PUG?
If you want a small affectionate dog that will bond easily with you, the Pug might be your go-to-breed. Pugs are mischievous, adorable and oh-so-cuddly – making them impossible to resist.
PUGS ARE...
One of America's favorite dog breeds and have been for decades.
One of the oldest breeds of dogs. The Pug breed’s roots can be tracked back to Imperial China in 700 B.C., during the time of Confucius, when the breed was known as lo-sze. Imported to England in the 16th century, the breed quickly became a popular lap dog among the aristocracy.
The largest of the Toy breeds.
Fit in with young and old families. They can be active enough to play with young children or lazy enough to just lay around and be a companion to the elderly.
They cock their head to the side when they hear a strange noise or you are directly talking to them.
The comedians of the dog world.
Sensitive to the human voice so scolding them too much is unnecessary.
Have two coats of hair, the overcoat (course hair) and the undercoat (soft hair), which is why they shed so much.
Bred to be lap and companion dogs
Not the dog to get if you want a swimming buddy. Pugs can't really swim at all.
Pugs are expressive, exuberant, and often comical. They’re eager to play and will follow you, well, pretty much everywhere.
Pugs tend to sleep more than other dogs (an average of 14 hours a day), and in this way are much like cats. So while they are known as eager people pleasers, they’re also snoozers.
Pugs SHED…. A LOT. Invest in a “Furminator” brush and keep stocked up on lint rollers. Fortunately, most Pugs love the physical contact that a good brushing provides and are eager for the attention.
With Pugs, a little exercise goes a long way. Due to their small stature, pugs don’t need fields of running room and adapt well to apartment living.
Pugs are not watch dogs. They would lick someone to death and that’s about it.
Pugs snore. Almost as much as they shed. If you are a light sleeper, a Pug is probably not your best bed companion. But once you get used to the snoring, it will rock you to sleep, trust us!!
Pugs are stubborn. Most often when it involves food or housebreaking. (You should assume your new Pug is not completely housebroken and work from there.)
Pugs are not high maintenance, but they do require some routine care. The wrinkles on their face need to be cleaned. The wrinkles are a perfect place for moisture that can cause itching, irritation, or even an infection. A Pugs ears need to be cleaned for the same reasons.
Pugs are very smart. They are inquisitive and playful but love to do things to please you. With patience and plenty of treats your Pug can be a pretty good student.
Pugs are very social. Anyone that will play with them or give them attention is a Pug's friend.
Pugs are natural snugglers, they love to curl up near or on top of you and take a nap.
Pugs are very attached to their humans. They are clingy. Also known as "Velcro" Pugs.
Pugs are so full of love and personality, it's hard to believe they are as small as they are.
Pugs are little clowns. They will show off and do funny things to get your attention. They are famous for the head tilt.
Pugs LOVE food. If given the opportunity, a Pug will eat until everything is gone or it explodes. Whichever comes first. This is why “free feeding” is a no no for Pugs.
No outfit is complete without dog hair. Pugs shed. Again, invest in a Furminator and lint rollers, you'll thank us later for that advice!
Check out the FURMINATOR DESHEDDING TOOL
