Information and details on the Pug breed including a brief history of the breed, health concerns, care, feeding, and disposition. Also includes links to photos of Pugs, discussion forums for Pugs, and rescue organizations that serve to rehabilitate and re-home Pugs.

The Pug

Breed Motto

“Multum in Parvo” meaning “Much in little” (A lot of dog in a small space.)

Nicknames for the Pug

Chinese Pug.

History of the Pug

The history of the Pug breed is somewhat vague, primarily believed to have had its roots in China belonging to royalty. Later, Dutch traders supposedly brought back the breed back from the Far East to Holland and to England where it again was associated with royalty.

Coloring and Coat of the Pug

Purebred Pugs have a smooth, soft, short fur coat. Most Pugs are either all black or apricot / fawn and black. Silver is mentioned, but is rare. Other colors, such as “brindle”, are believed to be a mix of a black Pug and a fawn colored Pug.

Personality and Temperament of the Pug

Charming, fun-loving, playful, sweet, dignified dogs. Determined and strong-willed at times, as is the case with most small dog breeds. Curious, alert, and highly intelligent. Tend to be good watchdogs (but not guarddogs, for obvious reasons). They’re not the quietest…their short muzzle causes them to snort, snore, and wheeze at times. Can be gassy. Sociable creatures that tend to easily accept strangers and other animals. Excellent companion pet for the elderly. Not generally barkers, tending to reserve barking only for appropriate times (example: someone at door).

Height and Weight of the Pug

10″ to 14″ tall, 13 to 20 pounds. (Pugs exceeding 20 pounds are considered overweight…unfortunately, many pugs have this issue.)

Feeding of the Pug

The food we’ve chosen for our Pugs is SOLID GOLD Holistique Blendz Adult Dog Food. They get about 1/4 cup, twice daily with some little healthy snacks in between. There are a few quality kibbles on the market now. Along with high quality, the choice you make should consider the age and activity level of the dog, as well as any sensitivities to ingredients. (We have one allergic Pug and one that is not. Believe the quality of breeding has a lot to do with it.)

Update: We’ve switched to Solid Gold Lamb & Barley canned dog food now after one of our pugs was diagnosed with Canine Urolithiasis. The canned food helps to ensure he gets more moisture, encouraging him to urinate more which helps to control crystal formation and thereby helps to prevent stones from forming. The affected one is also getting a supplement made by Solid Gold for that condition, Berry Balance, which contains blueberry and cranberry extracts.

Continue for information on the living conditions, health, and grooming and maintenance requirements of the pug dog.