Small Dog Breeds

Information About The Pug Terrior Dog Breed

The Pug has a solid, squarish body, a pushed-in muzzle, and protruding eyes. He is a happy and lovable dog with one of the sweetest disposition of any breed. He is intelligent, fun, playful, able to warm up quickly with strangers, good with children (but does not tolerate roughhousing), and usually gets along with other dogs. This breed rarely shows aggression, which makes him a great family pet. He can be difficult to housebreak. Training this dog can be hard because of his slightly stubborn nature, although he usually comes around well if a patient and consistent training method is applied. Socialization that begins from puppy hood is necessary to increase this breed's confidence level. Spoiling the Pug may make him timid and bossy.

Size: The Pug stands 9-11 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 14-18lb.

Health concern: This breed can develop sinus problems because if its blunt muzzle. He tends to wheeze and snore and also sensitive to extremes in temperature which requires him to wear a sweater on a cold day. He is also susceptible to some respiratory problem through over-heating or vigorous exercise and his flat- squashed looking face can encounter breathing difficulties similar to what occur in Bulldogs. His Pug's eyes protrude slightly and extra care is needed to avoid the leash from rubbing against them.

History and origin: The Pug originated in Tibet in ancient times. The breed found his way to France with the Turkish Fleet in 1553. These little dogs were brought by the sailors as presents for their ladies and were subsequently known as "Little Turks." They were also a favorite in Holland in the House of Orange. In fact, when William and Mary of Orange journeyed to Britain to ascend the throne in 1689, they brought along a few Pugs to accompany them. For about 300 years, the breed enjoyed popularity similar to that of the poodle today. Most Pugs were permitted to eat sweet meats and various kinds of delicacies which made them so fat that they were later on regarded by many as an abomination. They slowly declined in numbers that in 1864, even Queen Victoria had difficulty finding one to add to her kennels. However, some 20 years later, the Pug Dog Club was formed and efforts were made to improve and standardize the breed which results in the elegant and solid Pug of today.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Pug is ½ - ¾ can of high quality dog food (13.0oz size) or about 8oz of fresh meat daily with dog biscuits. Be careful not to over feed this breed because he has a tendency to put on weight easily.

Exercise: The Pug is an energetic dog that best enjoys a nice walk. Be careful not to over exert him to prevent respiratory problems.

Grooming: This breed has a short and coarse shedding coat that needs to be brushed once or twice a week.

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