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, or plenty of dog in a small package! Pugs have a strong, noble appearance along with being quite sturdy. These qualities are perhaps a big reason behind their popularity.
Physical Characteristics
It is believed that Pugs are related to the larger Mastiff dog breed and have been bred down to its petite size over many years. They do physically resemble a Mastiff in many ways, until you get to the tail.
The ideal Pug tail should have two curls and stand proudly over the dog's rump area.
Pugs have well-round heads, a short flat muzzle, and lots of wrinkles on their forehead. These vertical wrinkles on the forehead are said to resemble the Chinese character for the word "prince" (王) and thus is known as the "prince mark."
The pug has a square body shape, a short dense double coat, and bulbous and prominent eyes that protrude. Like many of the flat-faced breeds, Pugs are prone to eye trauma because of their prominence.
A Pug's coat colour can range from a fawn and an apricot shade to silver and black. The black dogs are the only colour to not have a darker mask.
Pugs are strong and sturdy dogs with height generally ranging from 25 to 28cms and weight from 6 to 8kgs.
Their short pushed in face and wrinkled forehead make them appear wise and they look as though they understand everything you are saying.
Their short dense, double coat makes them adaptable to most climates, but the very hot and humid days are not their friend.
The Pug is small enough to take just about anywhere.
History
Thought to have come from Holland, the Pug in fact originated in China. It is likely the breed was first transported to Holland via trading ships around 1572.
History tells that it was a Pug's barking which sounded the alarm to approaching Spanish soldiers in the late 1500's when Spain tried to take control of Holland. This Pug was credited with saving his master's life, Prince William the Silent of Holland. The breed forever after has been associated with the Royal House of Orange.
Napoleon's wife owned a Pug, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor owned a Pug as a royal companion. The Pug became the latest rage during Victorian England, and Pugs can be spotted in many paintings and other artwork of that time.
Some believe the Pug's name came from their likeness to a marmoset monkey, also called the 'pug monkey'. Another theory is that the Pug name is derived from the Latin word 'pugnus' which means 'fist', perhaps describing the breed's round face and head.
In the 1700's the Catholic Church forbade Catholics from becoming Freemasons. In 1740 a group of Catholics decided to form their own covert version of the Freemasons and they called it 'The Order of the Pug'. They chose the Pug to represent their new order because of its loyalty and trustworthiness. Apparently, to be initiated into the order you had to wear a dog collar and scratch at the door like a dog!
Personality and Temperament
The Pug generally has a very even temperament with a somewhat sober side. They are sociable and usually get on well with other dogs. Pugs are also generally very good with children. They are more than happy to just hang out with their favourite human and often like to have their pet parents in sight.
Pugs are known to sometimes have a stubborn streak, but we believe that it's largely due to them not always being properly understood and a lack of proper education and obedience training.
Grooming
This is a breed that is not hard at all to keep looking its best. A quick brush daily is best, making sure not to rip out any undercoat before its due to come out and definitely not in the winter.
Once the season changes, you will need to give your Pug a regular brush. Be sure to pay special attention to the areas around the face where the folds are.
The Pug does suffer skin conditions because of the many folds around its face which need regular attention. Ensure those folds are clean and free of dirt and grime, daily.
A regular visit to your vet is recommended to prevent your Pug from developing any skin conditions.
Diet does play a big role in skin conditions, so be sure your Pug has all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy, without any skin issues.
Training Your Pug
Bark Busters International Head of Training - Donna Ryan
When I think of Pugs I think of silly clowns. These dogs are mischievous and get away with it because they are so 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 quite the show to get it.
While with a lot of Pugs it doesn't matter too much, we are usually called in because their owners have not given their dogs any rules or boundaries at all, and their dog has "taken over the household" and are following their own set of rules. They can also be moody 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 and often at mealtimes. Pugs love to eat and can easily become over-weight if you giving to their demands for more food. They are also pullers on lead and can be taught to walk at heel with you. Pugs are usually friendly, but they do 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 if 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 that we are called in 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 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 and wonderful relationship with your four-legged comedian.
Puppy Selection
If you are looking for a Pug puppy or adult dog, we recommend you first check in with all the Pug Rescue organisations. There are many great dogs looking for good homes!
Check all local dog rescue shelters because sometimes they have Pugs, that for no fault of their own, have ended up being there. Speak to the shelter management to find out why the dog was surrendered to them.
Shelters work very hard to match the right owners with the right dogs, and it's not just about finding homes, they try to find that 'forever home'.
Sometimes a crossbreed with Pug in the mix, might be a good option too.
If you're out of luck at the rescue centres, then ensure you choose a reputable breeder. Check out the Kennel Club for a list of approved breeders close to you.
Many dogs are abandoned for the wrong reasons and some people are not fully prepared to do what it takes to train and educate a dog. All shelters give their dogs health checks to make sure they are in good shape and up to date on their vaccinations and will make you aware of any behaviour problems too. Bark Busters trainers work with many local shelters to help overcome any behaviour problems before a dog is adopted.
A good breeder will, where possible, try and screen out all the health problems inherent to the breed. They should be happy to answer your questions about temperament and health considerations and should ask you questions about your lifestyle and goals. Reputable breeders are registered, and they abide by certain policies and screening.
Before you decide on a Pug puppy, ask yourself if you would be better off with an adult Pug, that would mean lower maintenance and lower energy. Puppies are fun, but they are also a lot of work.
Whether you decide on a puppy or an adult make sure you take your dog to the vet soon after adoption to identify and prevent any problems and to check on its immunisation and desexing needs.
Four Basic Needs
Let's examine those four basic needs and why your dog needs them to keep it healthy, balanced and content.
Food - diet / nutrition
Some dogs can be pretty picky about their food. Consult with your veterinarian about which brand of food you should purchase, or which raw diet is best for your dog. Your dog's diet is important to meet their nutritional needs and to maintain the overall health. For puppies, as they are so small, you don't need a lot of food to fill them up!
We promote a diet that is grain free, low in carbohydrates and without any harmful e-numbers, colours and preservatives. Carbohydrates do add energy that the dog needs to burn off and can make an already hyperactive dog more active.
The right diet, grain free and filled with fruits, vegetables and raw meat will have advantages to how your dog will feel, look and act.
If you want to understand why grains can make a dog more energetic, you only need to think of racehorses and how their trainers give them grain to get highly energetic racehorses. Energy in, equals energy out.
Bark Busters dog trainers are not vets or dietitians, so we urge you to do your own research into the best diet for your dog. A diet that you will be comfortable with.
We do however have vast experience of how highly concentrated grain diets effect behaviour and can cause hyperactivity. This is very prominent in Japan, where most dogs are fed high levels of rice in their diet which can adversely affect concentration and focus.
Safety - through leadership and education
All dogs need strong leadership and to know where they fit into the family unit. If they know they have a leader that will make all the decisions, one who is fair and just, they will be happy and content.
On the other hand, if they have no structure in their life, they have inconsistency, and don’t know how things will be from one day to the next, then they will become stressed and may experience health ailments, skin and stomach issues and behaviour problems. Routine and respect must be established. With equal doses of love and structure your dog will feel safe and secure.
Your dog just wants to please you but many times they don't know how. If you don't quickly establish yourself as the leader, your dog will gladly assume this role and chaos could follow.
Shelter - a place to call their own
Dogs love nothing better than to curl up on the couch or in a place they can call their own, even when there is more than one dog. Most dogs are very sociable, and they will think nothing of all snuggling in together. Provide your dog with its own "den", a place where they can call home, and somewhere they can go to for a bit of peace and quiet. Just make sure their "den" is warm, easy to clean and maintain. Also, this breed does not like to be cold, and their shivering is a sign that some warmth is needed.
Entertainment - toys and games
A very important part of your dog's four basic needs is their need to have something to do. If we want to avoid our pets becoming bored and destructive, then they need a way to fill their day.
Dogs thrive with physical and mental exercise. Dogs are highly intelligent animals, and they need to keep their brains active as much as their bodies. Entertainment is an important part of their well-being and essential to your dog's overall mental health.
One great toy is the Bark Busters GameChanger® which helps to prevent boredom, stress, and separation anxiety. By filling it with small treats, your dog will have plenty of fun trying to get the treats to dispense.
Games to Play
What are the right games, you might ask?
Be mindful of your particular dog’s energy levels. Also, remember your Pug’s anatomy, especially it’s face / snout, when choosing a game to play. Pugs can easily become exhausted and worn out, especially in hot weather, so don’t overdo it.
Don't play any games that involves rough and tumble as this only encourages biting. 'Tug of War' is okay and playing ball is good, provided your dog is not the type that gets fixated on the ball and refuses to stop playing when requested.
Hide and seek is a great game too. These are games where you hide things from your dog, like toys or a tennis ball or treats and then encourage them to find them. You can increase the degree of difficulty as your dog gets better at the game. Start out where your dog sees you hide the item, then repeat over and over, 'Seek' which is a good command to use for this exercise. Remember to give a lot of praise when they find it. These types of games are more calming for your Yorkie, than those type of games that encourage your dog to become over-excited or teaches them to bark or bite hands.
Fetch - Pugs are great sports and love to chase balls and play with toys. Your dog will love a rousing game of fetch, challenge yourself to see how far you can throw it. Also teach the command of "out" once you dog has brought the object back to you.
Walking - This classic form of exercise is still great for all breeds, but make sure you don’t overwork your Pug, especially in hot weather.
Child’s Play
All dogs need to be controlled around babies or toddlers so as not to nip at them. They are intelligent and do learn quickly, so spend time educating them as to what is good and what is not. If you are patient and understanding of their capabilities, you will be able to enjoy many great times as a family with your dog.
Puzzle and Treat Dispensing Toys
The GameChanger® by Bark Busters is a great toy. This interactive toy gives dogs hours of entertainment, providing they are food or toy motivated. The GameChanger® is a sturdy educational toy that delivers a treat when the dog spins it the right way. You simply fill the toy with treats and allow your dog to do the rest. They will soon get to work and get the treats flowing. The flexibility of the toy gives persistent chewers the ability to bite down on the toy, giving them a workout. The GameChanger® is highly recommended to prevent destructive behaviour and will also assist in keeping dogs entertained and less bored.
These toys can help your dog to direct his chewing efforts in a positive direction as opposed to chewing your shoes or precious items.
Many dogs go wild for this toy. Unlike hard plastic toys, this toy is very quiet and won’t damage your hardwood floors or furniture. It is flexible, BPA free, and won’t break teeth or hurt your dog’s mouth.
Dog Parks
Taking Your Pug to Dog Parks
Dog Parks are one of the most misunderstood dog activities of the modern-day dog world. Some doggie parents love nothing more than to take their dog to a dog park. They have been told they need to socialise their dog and so off they go.
They love the fact that their dog has fun, they get to meet other dog lovers and watch the dog's romp around and play.
That is the upside, but the downside is there are those dog lovers whose dogs don't fit into this world at all. They are those dogs or puppies that were bullied, frightened on their first visit or whose personality does not fit the mould.
These folks agonise over the fact that their dog or puppy does not look forward to its trip there, it hides under the seat of the car, or it has to be carried or enticed into the park.
Many ask us why their dog acts like this and how they can fix it?
Bark Busters do have ways to assist these pet parents, but we do also explain why their dog might not like the dog park because of its personality.
It reminds us of a friend of ours who visited us regularly with her little dog, 'Harry'.
When they would arrive, Harry would walk up to each of us, sniff our legs and walk away.
She questioned us one day on why we never petted Harry when he came up to us.
We explained that this was not what Harry was doing, he was sniffing us, not requesting a pat. If he had been requesting to be petted, after sniffing us, he would have gestured to us to pet him. He did not do that, instead he walked away.
We told her that Harry was not a social dog and preferred not to be touched by anyone other than her and he avoided any interaction with our dogs too. He was a 'one person' dog that did not feel comfortable around others.
It was like a light had been turned on, our friend smiled and told us that this explained a lot to her. She further explained that every time she took Harry to the dog park, that he could not wait to get back to the car when it was time to leave, that he would stand away from the other dogs, never join in the play and snap at other dogs when they came near him.
He was telling her in every way he could that he did not fit into that dog park crowd, just like some humans hate parties!
With today's dog owners having such busy lifestyles, more and more dog owners are turning to dog parks as a way of socialising and exercising their dogs. While this is great fun for most dogs and dog owners, not every dog will do well in this environment.
A breed like the Pug needs to be socialised with dogs of similar size and energy levels or they, or the other dogs, could become fearful, especially those larger than themselves, which could lead to 'dog aggression'.
Some high energy large breeds have little or no regard for little shy or reserved dogs and will think nothing about bowling them over and showing them who is boss of the doggie park.
If your dog doesn't enjoy this type of rough and tumble, or is traumatised by it, then you might have an issue the next time you try to visit the park.
The best way to prevent this behaviour is to see if there is an option at your dog park to match size, and possibly personality, away from the boisterous dogs. If that is not possible, try visiting the dog park in off peak hours and practice gaining focus from your dog before you allow them to run off and play.
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This article is the copyright of Bark Busters® and is intended for information purposes only. Dog owners should fully research any problems that they may have with their dogs.