The Canine Chronicles Directory
Pug
The Pug is a miniature Mastiff, with a boxy head, large bones and typically thick,
wrinkled skin. Breed standards call for a square, cobby body, a compact form, deep
chest and well developed muscle. They have a short black muzzle. The rose-shaped
ears are velvety and hang forward around the head. If they have moles on their cheeks,
they are considered beauty marks. The large, expressive, bulging eyes are lustrous
and dark. Their teeth should meet in a slightly undershot bite. The topline is level
and the back is short. Their legs are straight and they have a distinctive, rolling
and jaunty gait. Their tightly curled tail hangs over the back; however, a double
curled tail shows very well. Their coat colors include silver-fawn, apricot, fawn
and black.
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Temperament
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The Pug's motto is "multum in parvo" or a lot in a small package. These perky, loyal,
and affectionate dogs have a happy disposition. Though playful and charming, they
can be clever and a bit mischievous. They bore easily with repetitive training practices.
This breed is very sensitive to your voice tone. These great watchdogs are not yappers.
They get along well with children and other dogs and have impeccable manners with
visitors. They require lots of attention.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 12-14" ; Weight: 13-20 lbs.
Female Height: 10-12" ; Weight: 13-18 lbs.
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Health Problems
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As with some flat-nose breeds, they can catch colds easily and can have breathing
difficulties. They may also require a cesarean to give birth. They are also heat
and cold sensitive. They are prone to allergies, keratites, and ulcers on the cornea.
Check eyes often as they are prone to tear. Do not overfeed this breed as they love
to eat.
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Living Conditions
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Pugs will do fine living in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They
do best with an average-sized yard. They cannot be comfortable in very hot or cold
conditions.
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Exercise
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This breed loves to exercise and is very energetic but be careful if they start
to wheeze.
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Life Expectancy
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12 or more years
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Grooming
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The smooth, short coat of this breed is easy to care for. Brush or comb weekly to
remove dead hair and only bathe when necessary. After a shampoo, make sure he is
kept warm. Clean the wrinkles on his face often. This breed is a seasonal heavy
shedder.
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Origin
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The Dutch East India Company traded around the world, including the Far East, where
they found the Pug in China and brought it home to Holland, probably before the
16th century. When Protestant William III took over England after Catholic James
II was ousted, the Pug accompanied the Dutchman to the islands and to British favor.
Thus, the pug is a symbol of both politics and religion. Years later, a famous couple,
the Duke and Duchess of Windsor enjoyed the company of this miniature mastiff. Classified
by the AKC as a toy, it was recognized in 1885 and the breed has become a very popular
companion dog. They are also recognized by the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Toy, UKC Companion Dog
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