The Pug

The Pug is an ancient Chinese dog breed with an impressive history, having been revered alongside royalty. The breed motto is "multum in parvo," a Latin phrase meaning a lot in a little - plenty of dog in a small package!

Pugs are members of the toy breed category and have a strong, noble appearance. The Pug is possibly one of the strongest and sturdiest dogs in this breed category. This sturdiness, along with their impressive looks, is perhaps a big reason behind their popularity.

Here's what the American Kennel Club has to say about the Pug:

"Once the mischievous companion of Chinese emperors, and later the mascot of Holland’s royal House of Orange, the small but solid Pug is today adored by his millions of fans around the world. Pugs live to love and to be loved in return."

When I think of Pugs I think of silly clowns. These dogs are mischievous and get away with it because they are so darned cute. I have seen more than one pug dance on its hind legs, especially if there is food around. It is an adorable display which almost always makes everyone around laugh, which I almost think is the intention. Pugs LOVE attention and will often put on quiet the show in order to get it.

While with a lot of Pugs it doesn’t matter too much, usually we are called because their people have not given these dogs any rules or boundaries at all and the dog has “taken over the household” and set their own set of rules. They can be moody as well and can pout if you don’t give in. They will usually get over it quickly and are typically compliant dogs that are easy to train as they want to please and get praised.

Typical issues are barking for attention, often at meal time. Pugs love to eat and can easily become over-weight if given into. They are also typically pullers on leash until taught to walk with you and not lead. Pugs are usually friendly but can tend to jump on the people they live with and visitors which is another issue we are called to help resolve.

Be careful about rewarding with treats as often these dogs will learn to not listen is there isn’t a treat reward, as I said these dogs love to eat. They will try to take advantage of those human treat dispensers.

Caution needs to be taken, especially in the summer, as with other flat faced dogs, breathing can be problematic in the heat and humidity of summer. Walks in the summer need to be short because of their physical characteristics. They are not excessively energetic dogs but are usually willing to participate in the family activities. They also do not need a lot of space and so are often good companions for apartment dwellers. Playing inside in the air conditioning during the summer is usually enough physical exercise for Pugs.

Overall Pugs are wonderful companions, with a cheerful disposition and they are not one of the main breeds we are called to help fix problems with. As with all dogs though, if you aren’t setting rules and boundaries, they will make up their own, which may not be in line with your thoughts and feelings.

While, as I mentioned, they are not one of the dogs that we get huge numbers of calls for help with, Dogs are all individuals and so their individuality needs to be considered when working with them. Bark Busters Trainers’ unequalled experience at helping dog owners resolve problems can usually help owners of Pugs quickly, so if you do have issues with your Pug, call us today so you can get help quickly and have a long wonderful relationship with your four-legged comedian.