A Pug is a toy dog breed of dog with a wrinkly face, and medium-small body.
History: The origin of this breed is not fully known, however it is wide accepted that they came to England during the late 1700s from Asia. Thought to be a long legged, short-coated version of the Pekinese, these wonderfully kind toy dogs were much in favor during the Victorian era.
Appearance: Symmetry and general appearance are decidedly square and cobby. A lean, leggy Pug and a dog with short legs and a long body are equally objectionable. The back is short, with a level topline. The teeth should meet in a slightly undershot bite. Its tail is tightly curled over its short back. The eyes are prominent, expressive, dark and lustrous. The ears are thin, small, soft, like black velvet. There are two kinds-the “rose” and the “button.” Preference is given to the latter. The Pug has a very fine, short, and soft coat. The coat should be smooth and glossy and neither hard nor wooly. The hair is slightly broken along the curly tail. Allowed colors are: solid black, apricot, silver-fawn or fawn. Fawn coloration must include a black line, called a trace, down the center of the back from the head to the tail.
Size: Height: dogs - 12-14 inches (30-36 cm); bitches 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)
Weight: dogs - 13-20 pounds (6-9kg); bitches 13-18 pounds (6-8kg)
Temperament: A Pug is “a lot of dog in a small space.” They are perky, rambunctious and loyal, affectionate and loving, with a happy disposition. They are playful and charming. Clever and mischievous - with a heart-winning personality. Pugs are sensitive to the tone of a human, so harsh punishment is generally unnecessary. Pugs get along well with other dogs and pets and require lots of attention; they may become slightly jealous if their owner ignores them or does not play with them. The Pug does extremely well around children, even children that are prone to pestering a dog, as this is a very sturdy and hardy breed. He can do very well around other dogs, but should be socialized at an early age like other breeds. This breed does not bark excessively, yet makes a good watchdog.
Health: Watch for allergies, demodex mange, breathing problems, pigmentary keratitis, PRA, epilepsy, cataracts, luxated patellar.
Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Grooming: The smooth coat of the pug requires minimal grooming that consists mainly of brushing twice weekly to help with the breed’s excessive shedding. Bath as necessary and dry thoroughly to prevent it from getting cold. 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.
Puppy price: $400.00 - $1.000.00