Pug

                                            Pug

AKA:Carlin, Mops
Origin:China
Size:Small
Ease of training:Medium
Grooming:Medium
Shedding:High
Exercise needed:Occasional walks
Energy level:Low
Protection:Low
Good with children:Yes
Health clearances:OFA, CERF
Popularity:13/155

Pug Temperament

The Pug is a good natured, sociable creature that likes to play and have fun, but is not an overly active dog. These dogs are more inclined to snuggle up and have a nap than to frolic around, although some can be very entertaining to be around. A loving, affectionate, yet not overly demanding dog, the Pug is well suited to those with no experience of dog ownership as well as the more experienced. The Pug is not the ideal choice for a guard dog or watchdog, as he is small, a little too sociable to be daunting, and prefers to communicate through grunting rather than barking. His table temperament and friendly nature makes the Pug a good family pet, and he is also ideal as a companion dog for the elderly or anyone that just wants a peaceful friend.

These dogs get along well with children and other animals, although jealousy can strike if another pet gets more attention than them. They will also get along well with strangers. They are intelligent, and training should not prove too challenging, but housebreaking can be another matter. Some can be quite stubborn and strong minded, but most are sweet and sensitive. They love their creature comforts, and enjoy the affection and attention of their owners. These charming dogs do have a tendency to look grouchy because of their wrinkly faces and short snouts, but most are anything but.

Pug Appearance

The Pug is a small, compact, and sturdy dog with a muscular build. He has an expression that seems to combine grouchiness with sweetness and bewilderment. This short muzzled dog has facial wrinkles, small folded ears, and a curled tail. The coat of the Pug is short, close fitting, and sleek, and the coloring includes silver, black, or apricot-fawn, with black markings on the face and ears. These dogs have protruding eyes, and this is something that needs to be considered if you have young children that are boisterous, as they can easily be injured. The Pug weighs in at 14-20 pounds, and is around 10-11 inches in height.

Pug Grooming

The Pug is not an overly high maintenance dog, although his coat will need to be brushed daily to cut back on shedding and to keep it sleek. You should ensure that you clean the wrinkles on his face to avoid skin problems and infection, and also check his prominent eyes for signs of infection, dryness, or other problems. This is a year round shedder, and is not well suited to those with allergies or those who don't like finding hair all over the house.

Pug Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Pug is around 12-13 years. There are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed, including cataracts, entropion, liver problems, epilepsy, sensitivity to drugs and chemicals, PRA, Less-Perthes, and encephalitis. His eyes are prone to injury or infection because of their prominence. He is also heat sensitive because of his short muzzle and short coat, and should not be left out in the sun or in stuffy conditions. The parents of the Pug puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

Pug History

The Pug originates from China, and were once a firm favorite of Tibetan monks. The breed enjoys a long history in terms of ancestry, and in the sixteenth century was introduced in Holland by Prince William of Orange. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1885.