Pug

Dog Breed Profile

Pug History

The Pug is a small, short-muzzled, square-proportioned, and compactly builtBrachycephalicdogbreed from East Asia. The Pug is one of the world’s most recognizable and popular toy breeds. The history of the pug can be traced to China over two thousand years ago. For centuries the pug was kept as a pet by Chinese emperors, and images of them have been found on ancient artifacts. The pug was eventually introduced to Europe in the 1600s and established a following in England. The popularity of the pug and its ancestors greatly diminished during the 1800s, but interest in the breed was renewed once again in the 1990s.

Time of Origin

Ancient

Country of Origin

China

Ancestry

Pekingese, Bulldog, Mastiff

Pug Physical Characteristics

The Pug is a small, medium-to-large sized brachycephalic (flat faced) breed of dog that was originally bred for hunting. They have short legs, and an elongated face with very short muzzles and flat, wrinkled, or folded foreheads. Their noses are large and they usually have droopy eyelids. The pug has a loose skin that is either fawn or black in color. They are very friendly, playful, and outgoing.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 12 – 14 inches

Female Height Range: 10 – 12 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 13 – 20 lbs

Female Weight Range: 13 – 18 lbs

Pug Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Pug Health Concerns

Entropion, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Portosystemic Shunt, Pug Dog Encephalitis, Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis, Allergies, Corneal Ulcer

Pug Temperament and Behaviour

The Pug is a playful, cheerful, and outgoing dog. They are mischievous and love to clown around, which can make for an entertaining pet. They are generally very calm, but they can be nervous and high-strung. They get along well with children and other pets, but they can be aggressive towards strange dogs and people.

Pug Activity Requirements

While Pugs are small, short-haired, and compact, they are actually quite active and athletic. Their short bodies are designed for speed, and they absolutely adore playing. While Pugs are not high-energy, they still require regular exercise. A daily walk or a few play sessions is the best way to keep them healthy and happy. They also love being outdoors. Some toys that can help improve dexterity and stimulate their busy brains can be beneficial, too. If you are thinking of getting a Pug, you should be prepared for their energetic personalities. They aren’t a couch potato kind of dog. They need regular physical exercise and mental stimulation.