Pug breed guide

Pugs were developed as a companion dog for royalty and high ranking court officials.  It's likely that they originated from the same stock that produced the Pekingese and other small oriental breeds.   Pugs were brought from China to Europe in the 16th century and became popular in Western Europe through the House of Orange of the Netherlands, and the House of Stuart In the UK during the 19th century.   Queen Victoria developed a passion for Pugs which she passed on to other members of the Royal family.

Pugs are loyal, loving and affectionate with their families. They are playful and lively and sure to keep you laughing. Pugs are known for being very sociable and are gentle companion dogs.  Pugs get along well with other dogs and pets, and they behave impeccably with both children and visitors.  With few exceptions pugs are play well with and enjoy children and are sturdy enough to cope with them. 

Pugs are often described as multum in parvo, or "much in little", due to their small size but big personality. They are rarely aggressive but strong willed.  Pugs can be quite and docile or vivacious depending on what sort of mood their owner is in.  They are very sensitive to the tone of the owners voice and are a very intelligent and trainable dog.  They do require regular and consistent training.  Healthy pugs can compete in sports such as Agility,  Flyball and Obedience.

Pugs are in the toy class of dogs and have a wrinkly, short-muzzled face and curled tail. They have a fine, glossy coat - in silver, apricot, faun, or black.  They have two very distinct ear shapes -  "rose" and "button". "Rose" ears are smaller than "button" ears, and are folded with the front edge against the side of the head. The preference for breeding is the "button" style.   Pugs' legs are strong, straight, of moderate length, and are set well under.  Their ankles are strong, their feet are small, their toes are well split-up, and their nails are black.   

The muzzle is relatively short, blunt, not upfaced.  The nose is fairly large with well open nostrils.  Eyes or nose should never be adversely affected by over nose wrinkle.  Pinched nostrils and heavy over nose wrinkle is unacceptable. The mouth is slightly undershot and the wide lower jaw with incisors almost in a straight line.  Wry mouth, teeth or tongue showing - are all highly undesirable.    The average lifespan is 10-15 years.

Pugs are very special and require extra attention and care.

Nose roll - must be kept clean and dry with a twice weekly wipe and dried with a tissue.

Eyes -  Pugs eyes are large and prominent and prone to injury.  Particularly, care must be taken around rose bushes, grasses and branches on walks, sand, dust, cats etc.  Any injury, inflammation, squinting, winking or closed eyes must be checked by the vet.

Hot Weather Alert -  Pugs may be prone to breathing difficulties - particularly in hot weather.  They are often unable to efficiently regulate their temperature through evaporation from the tongue by panting so awareness of this is important and due care taken.  Pugs must not be left outside in extreme heat.  Indoors with airconditioning is a must.  It is a sad fact that Pugs do not cope with sustained heat.   

Thanks to Anita Wright and The Pug Club of SA Inc. for contributing to this information.

Check our listings for Puppies for sale here and click on the links to our breeders below to go to their profile page.  You can also click here to search for Registered Pug Breeders by location.