Pug Puppies

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A fun-loving, cuddly, and outgoing breed

Low-energy and preferring to cuddle up on the laps of their owners, Pugs make great family pets for low-key households and apartment dwellers. These playful, silly dogs love being clowns for their families and making others laugh. Believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds that's still in existence, the Pug continues to grow in adoration and popularity among families today.


Pug At a Glance

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Pug At a Glance

  • Size: 10"-12", 14-18 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Energy Level: low
  • Coat: Short and smooth
  • Shedding: moderate
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Toy
  • Common Nicknames:

Pug Breed Guide

Learn More About Pugs

  • Temperament

    Pugs are good-natured, playful, and outgoing dogs who are known for their loving dispositions and especially their love for people. Pugs are typically great family dogs who get along well with other pets and children. Since they don't require a ton of exercise, Pugs are great dogs for apartment dwellers. They are perfectly content to be lap dogs, but Pugs still enjoy playing and romping around in the yard. These dogs are generally very trainable, and they typically respond well to reward-based training and positive reinforcement. However, Pugs can be difficult to housebreak, so it's important to pay close attention to them and learn the signs of when they need to go out.

  • Health

    Pug owners need to be prepared for the many health issues this breed can develop. Pugs are highly susceptible to eye conditions like corneal ulcers, dry eye, and proptosis. Because they have smushed noses, Pugs generally have brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, trouble breathing, and difficulty regulating their temperature in hot and cold temperatures. These breathing problems can be made worse if your Pug is obese. Pug owners need to be aware of Pug Dog Encephalitis, a condition that creates inflammation in the brain and can be deadly. Other health conditions Pugs may develop include skin problems, nerve degeneration, epilepsy, allergies, luxating patellas, hemivertebrae, and back issues.

  • Activity Level

    Pugs don't need a lot of exercise since they are low-energy. Good methods of exercising your pug include play and taking walks. Even though Pugs don't have a lot of energy, they still need exercise to prevent obesity and related health issues.

  • Grooming

    Pugs are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, only needing to be brushed once a week. These dogs only need baths when they get dirty or around once a month. Because this breed has wrinkly skin, Pugs need their skin folds to be cleaned and thoroughly dried to prevent bacteria growth. Pugs are also prone to gum disease and will need their teeth brushed regularly.

  • Shedding

    Despite having short coats, Pugs shed moderately all year long. Due to their level of shedding, this breed is not recommended for people with allergies.

  • Appearance

    Pugs are generally tan with black markings on their faces or are completely black. Their muzzles are smushed into their faces and covered in wrinkles. Many people love this breed's big, dark eyes and curled tail. While they are small, Pugs are still strong, dense dogs.

  • History

    The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dogs that is still around today. Most researchers agree that the Pug originated in China and was then brought to Holland via trade during the late 1500s and early 1600s. The Pug became a popular part of the Dutch royal court, and eventually became a mainstay in royal households throughout the rest of Europe. By the early 1800s, Pugs had developed into their own distinct breed and were first exhibited in 1861. The Pug didn't come to America until after the Civil War, but once it did, it quickly became a crowd favorite. The American Kennel Club (AKC) began to register Pugs in 1885, and the Pug Dog Club of America was founded in 1931. Since then, the Pug has remained a popular family companion.