Have you hugged your Pug today? Chances are we have! This charismatic little breed is one of our regulars.
Pugs are a small, vivacious breed and are generally well behaved indoors and will live comfortably in apartments and smaller properties. That being said – Pugs are playful and sociable, and they do love their walkies, so regular exercise is particularly important, but not too much, or for too long, as over-exercise can create breathing difficulties. Pugs love attention and companionship from their human family, and don’t cope well with being left alone for long periods.
Don’t let the cuteness factor fool you – although there’s a lot of charm packed into these little dogs; they are also known to be tricky to train. They are easily distracted, have a stubborn streak, and can get easily bored with repetitious tasks. Pugs are robust and non-aggressive, and they make great companions for kids – with patience, consistency and lots of praise, both Pugs and kids respond well to training!
Your Pug’s lifespan will be around 12 – 15 years. This breed is referred to as a “snub-nose” or brachycephalic (short-head) due to the flat shape of the Pug’s face. They don’t do well in extreme heat or cold as the flat shape of their face means narrow breathing passageways, affecting their ability to regulate their body temperature through evaporation from their tongue by panting, but does give them an impressive snore when they’re asleep considering their size! Your pug is definitely an indoor dog that won’t cope well if left outside for extended periods.
They have a fine, glossy coat, but need regular grooming to prevent excess shedding. A good brush every day or so, and regular baths will suffice, but keep their eyes and wrinkles wiped clean every day.
Originally bred to be a lapdog, your Pug will be a devoted, loving and fun companion as well as an excellent watchdog – they will let you know when someone is at the gate but they are not yappers and won’t annoy the neighbours by barking unnecessarily.