Pug
Lots of dog in a little space.
The Pug is a small companion breed with a wrinkled face, curled tail and famously charming, comical personality. Affectionate and easygoing, it lives to be with its people.
Great points
- Charming, comical and loving
- Great for apartments
- Low exercise needs
- Wonderful with kids
Things to consider
- Breathing and heat issues from the flat face
- Sheds more than expected
- Prone to weight gain
- Eye and skin folds need care
The story
Bred as a lapdog for Chinese emperors and later adored by European royalty, the Pug has been a companion dog for over two thousand years. Its motto, multum in parvo, means a lot of dog in a small space.
Training
Pugs are clever but a little stubborn and very food-motivated, so short, fun, treat-based sessions work best, with care not to overfeed during training.
Grooming
The short coat sheds more than you would expect, so brush weekly, and clean the facial wrinkles regularly to prevent infections.
Food & diet
About 0.5 to 1 cup a day. Pugs love food and gain weight easily, which worsens breathing, so measure carefully.
Exercise
Low. Short, gentle walks in cool weather and indoor play are enough.
Health to watch
Prone to breathing issues, eye problems, skin-fold infections and obesity. A cool home and lean weight help a lot.
Fun fact. A group of Pugs is playfully called a grumble.
