Pug Guide: What Do You Need to Know?

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Pug Dog Breed: What Do You Need to Know?

Pugs are a popular dog breed. They’re small, cute, and welcoming. Pugs originate in China, but there is still debate whether their closest relatives are large Molosser breeds or the Pekinese.

What we do know is that Pugs were the favorite in Tibetan monasteries centuries ago. If you’re thinking about getting a cute and perky dog breed, you’ve come to the right place.

All you need to hear about Pugs are right here. This guide will show you the correct care and training to educate them properly.

Characteristics

Height: 10-14 inches
Weight: 15-19 lbs.
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Best For: Families with children, singles, and adults/seniors
Adopting environment: apartments, houses with/without yards
Behavior: comical, perky, playful, cute, friendly

There is no standard height for a Pug. However, they are usually between 25 and 28 centimeters in length. They also weigh between 6.3 and 8.1 kilograms.

Pugs are small and muscular, as we all know. Compared to other parts of their body, their head is big. Pugs can also be varying in color, but their fur is short and smooth.

They have a distinguished short curled tail. Pugs are sweet, playful, and affectionate. Their personality is strong, and they enjoy being the center of attention.

These dogs are straightforward to get along with. Once socialized, they tend to get along with adults, children, animals, and other dogs.

Pugs need constant companionship and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. To prevent boredom, they need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.

hey are ideal pets for most families, including those with children or novice owners. However, they are not suitable for those who spend time away from home or are overly passive.

Pug Basics

CARE:

1. Regular Facial Hygiene

Bathing should only take place when the dog is dirty. However, to prevent skin infection, wrinkles on the face and muzzle should be rubbed down or regularly wiped with a damp cloth.

Taking care of their uniquely structured look will not only keep them healthy but will also enhance their appearance. It gives them a more dashing feature.

2. Weekly Brushing

Caring for a pug’s coat doesn’t take much time or effort. Brushing once or twice a week will remove dead fur. We must groom a pug’s coat so we can discharge all the dry skin.

It also keeps the hair healthy and clean since natural oils will be distributed. Additionally, brushing them would also help us get to know our dog’s body.

3. Moderate Exercise

Pugs are playful dogs that require mild exercise in the form of regular walks and enough playtime. However, strict caution is needed to avoid overdoing the exercise.

Pugs aren’t very robust due to their flattened stout and body form. They are particularly vulnerable to thermal shock in hot and humid climates.

4. Lots of Company

These dogs need a lot of company. That’s why they are not suitable for owners who are often away from home. Pugs need plenty of attention, so we must make sure we can give them care most of the time.

TRAINING:

1. Socialization

Pugs are relatively simple to train and educate. We should begin socialization training with them when they are still puppies.

Introducing them to people, other dogs, and their environment can improve their friendly nature. This process is essential so the dogs will be appropriately social and do not develop fear.

Making them more sociable will help them avoid potential behavioral issues.

2. Basic Orders

Pugs have a high level of intelligence and can pick up on a variety of tricks and orders. Begin with commands that are essential for their protection and communication improvement.

Obedience training will also help us strengthen our bond with our dog. Start with the basics: sit, stay, up, down, and fetch. We all know the drill.

3. Intelligence Games

Brain games are beneficial to all breeds. But for pugs, it is a form of recreation. It is advised that we use intelligence games to improve their cognition and avoid behavioral problems.

Puzzles are one of the most enjoyable and challenging games for dogs of all breeds. This game will stimulate the mind and help dogs escape boredom.

It is best for pugs since they don’t want to experience dead air for long periods.

4. Various Tricks

We can teach our pugs different tricks. We need to show them tricks that are both entertaining and stimulating. It will keep them energized and ward off boredom.

It’s important to note that pugs hate monotony. They need activities to maintain their cheerful and positive demeanor.

HEALTH:

The breed lives around 12 to 14 years. A pug is usually a healthy dog, but its skull structure can lead to brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome.

It is known to cause respiratory problems. Much of the Pug’s cuteness may also be its downfall when it comes to wellness.

The prominent features of a Pug, such as its face, are prone to eye and face problems.

Heatstroke is also more common in pugs than most other breeds. Pugs don’t do well in hot weather, so avoid taking them out on scorching days for extended periods.

Epilepsy and patellar dislocation are two other health issues to be aware of. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential for a long and healthy life for your Pug.

It’s also important to schedule frequent check-ups with your veterinarian (especially as your dog ages).

It will ensure that any potential health problems are detected and handled as soon as possible.

Author

Phoebe

Phoebe is a teacher, a sister, and a breadwinner in a family. She has so much passion for teaching children and the youth. Traveling and exploring different cultures are her recreation. The enthusiasm she possesses in learning new things made her ultimately independent as a woman.