Pug

Breed Description

The Pug is a charming dog breed that has been around for centuries. Undoubtedly, the breed has its roots in Asia. The history of such an ancient dog is, as usual, quite intricate. Similar in shape to the Tibetan Mastiff and with a profile reminiscent of the Pekingese, the “Chinese actor” appeared in the 2nd century BC in China. Since those times, pugs have always been close to nobility and the gentry, even outside of China. These dogs were highly valued among the aristocracy and were so expensive that ordinary citizens could not afford them. Within the canine community, it is believed that the Chinese Fu dogs depicted in ancient manuscripts are none other than the prototypes of the first pugs. A popular opinion suggests that the folds on these dogs’ faces resemble hieroglyphs. Fans see this as a special sign, perceiving it as a divine origin of their beloved four-legged companions. Another name for the pug is the Dutch Bulldog. The breed acquired its European name due to its characteristic flat face, which resembles that of a bulldog. However, to be frank, the fact of pugs being related to bulldogs is not confirmed. Scientists from the USA and Canada asse

Appearance

The decorative dog has a nearly square shape, stocky build, short straight coat, and a short curly tail. The average weight of a healthy adult dog according to FCI standards ranges from 6 to 8 kilograms. At the same time, pugs appear very solid and powerful. The folds on their face and shoulders make them similar to Shar Peis. The height at the withers varies from 25 to 30 centimeters. The average lifespan ranges from 12 to 16 years. Notably, the average weight of pugs has hardly changed since the 19th century of the last millennium.

While the size of a pug may be small, it does not allow for carrying it everywhere like a pocket Pekingese or Japanese Chin. Its appearance suggests hidden sources of energy, which is masked by its charming “smile” that is constantly present on the dog’s face. The attentive and somewhat surprised gaze of this square-shaped dog remains unforgettable.

It’s important to focus on the animal’s expressions. Perhaps no other dog has such a variety of “masks” as the Dutch Bulldog. A wide and contented smile, surprised, weepy, sly, proud, aristocratic, indifferent-this is just a partial list of the expressions this four-legged performer can wear with just a tilt of its head.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The fairly large head does not disrupt the proportions relative to the entire body.

Морда

The muzzle is short and almost square, with a skull that has no depressions, displaying typical brachycephalic features. It is covered with thick, short fur. There are large folds on the forehead that resemble deep wrinkles. The frontal folds extend down to a very short nose bridge but do not obstruct the dog's view. The folds from the back of the head descend along a short, strong neck to the shoulders, giving the dog a resemblance to a Shar Pei.

Уши

Covered with soft short fur, reminiscent of suede or velvet to the touch. In the first case, the FCI standard allows for the ear flap to be tilted forward with the tip of the ear pressed against the skull, covering the ear opening. In the second case, the ear may hang freely, partially exposing the ear canal.

Глаза

Fairly large round eyes, dark brown, often black. Widely open, shiny, slightly protruding, almost "oily" eyes are set rather wide apart and are nearly level with the nose. The attentive, slightly surprised gaze is a distinctive feature of a pug.

Зубы

White, even teeth are considered a sign of a healthy dog. The FCI standard allows for a bite that is no more than 2-3 mm. The jaws are strong, with the lower jaw being wider than the upper jaw. When the mouth is closed, the tongue should not be protruding. The teeth are covered by firm lips.

Корпус

Согласно стандарту FCI туловище мопса коренастое, плотно сбитое. Примерное соотношение высоты в холке к длине туловища должно составлять 1:1. Покрыто каркасом хорошо развитых мышц. Спина прямая и сильная, без прогибов и горбатости. Шея сильная, короткая, но не как у бульдогов. На лопатках достаточно крупные складки, ниспадающие с шеи и напоминающие складки шарпея. Грудная клетка широкая, рёбра загнуты и отведены назад. Живот поджат, но не прилипает к спине, не должен свисать.Таз однозначно уже грудной клетки при осмотре сверху.

Конечности

Передние лапы прямые, хорошо развиты, умеренно длинные, с сильной мускулатурой, полностью покрыты короткой шерстью. Лопатки не торчат. Пальцы с плотными подушечками, когти только чёрного цвета. Задние лапы очень хорошо развиты, умеренной длины, но без нарушения пропорций по отношению к габаритам собаки. Задние лапы также покрыты короткой шерстью по всей длине. Расположены параллельно друг другу, как и передние лапы при взгляде с тыловой стороны. Когти только чёрного цвета, подушечки плотные.

Хвост

High-set, covered with short hair. Moderately long, but still closer to short. Generally curled and thrown back over the back. A sign of a healthy dog is a tail tightly pressed against the body of the animal. An absolute virtue, as stated in the breed standard, is a double twist of the tail.

Шерсть

The fur of a pug is something remarkable. It is fine, straight, and short, closely fitting to the body. Pugs shed twice a year. There is a superstition that if a Dutch bulldog starts sneezing, it means it's time for shedding. In winter, the fur is replaced with a less dense coat. The reverse process can be observed in summer. It is important to note that the shedding period can vary individually, depending on the climate zone where the dog lives. No grooming is required, as grooming a show specimen disqualifies it from participating in exhibitions.

Окрас

На сегодняшний день в стандарте FCI принят чёрный, палевый, абрикосовый и серебристый окрас мопса. У собак всех окрасов, морда контрастно выделена чёрным цветом и имеет свои чёткие границы. Кроме этого, чёрная линия к хвосту по спине, пятно на лбу должны иметь максимально тёмный оттенок чёрного цвета. Существуют и другие окрасы, но они не рекомендованы к разведению, хотя не менее привлекательны. Наиболее строгие требования на выставках предъявляют к собакам чёрного цвета.

Character

The Pug is a family dog that is loved not only by adults. Children adore playing with these little snorting tanks with their adorable smiles. The dog’s size allows you to not worry about injuries the pup might sustain while playing with kids. Non-aggressive, they can be played with both at home and outside. However, it is still necessary to explain the rules of behavior with the dog to young dog owners. It makes sense to ensure that children do not cross the line or attempt to test the pet’s eyes for durability. After all, the affectionate and sly look of a Pug is so charming and alluring, like a magnet.

Dutch Bulldogs feel great in both urban apartments and country houses. The presence of other animals is not a problem for them. Pug puppies and older dogs are quite ready to engage in active games, such as chasing a ball or running after a stick. But as they age, the desire for active walks diminishes, and dogs prefer the tranquility of home over energetic fun. The measured lifestyle of their owners matches the preferences of this breed. Owners should be prepared for the fact that with a Pug in the house, there will be a resident who snores in their sleep.

However, if necessary, even an adult Pug can “shake off the dust” and awaken hidden reserves to spend some time engaged in active outdoor games.

Discreetness is another virtue of the breed. The dog will not annoy its owner, but it may feel offended if ignored for too long. It is worth noting that Pugs do not like loneliness and become quite bored if left unattended for an extended period.

Aggression or cowardice in a Dutch Bulldog is nonsense. Such dogs are not recommended for breeding and are rather rare.

In general, the Pug is an optimist who tries to gauge the mood of those around them. If there is melancholy in the air, they will happily philosophize at their owner’s feet. They are very sociable dogs, by the way, capable of defending their loved ones in times of danger.

Care and Maintenance

Dutch Bulldogs require intensive and ongoing care. Their significant muscle mass and sedentary lifestyle necessitate careful attention to their daily routine and diet. Premium-grade food with high fiber content and vitamins like potassium and phosphorus should be chosen. Overfeeding can lead to obesity in dogs.

Pugs, by nature, are homebodies and are not eager to go for long walks. It can be particularly challenging to take them outside in bad weather. A leisurely walk of 1.5 to 2 hours a day is sufficient. Regular exercise is essential to maintain their muscle mass; otherwise, the muscles can weaken, leading to severe consequences such as atrophy and paralysis. However, overly intense walks and workouts can overload the dog’s heart, especially as pugs often have breathing difficulties-this is something their owners should keep in mind. It’s best to break walking time into segments of 20 to 25 minutes each. This approach will help keep the dog fit.

Regular teeth cleaning helps maintain the dog’s dental health. It’s worth noting that daily cleaning is not necessary; cleaning them as needed is sufficient, which can be easily monitored during a weekly oral examination. The nose should be cleaned of excess mucus. During a cold, the dog may sneeze. Interestingly, there’s a belief that if a pug starts sneezing, it means it’s time for another shedding. Whether this is true, we won’t answer, but the flying mucus during sneezes certainly won’t please anyone.

The eyes are possibly one of the most vulnerable areas of a pug. If you live in the countryside or enjoy walks in nature, ensure that your walking route is free of protruding branches that could injure the pug’s eyes. Check your pet’s eyes daily for injuries, especially after walks in the countryside or when children play with the dog. Excess discharge should be cleaned to detect any potential eye diseases early. Ears require daily inspection and cleaning with a cotton swab or soft cloth dampened with a special lotion, which you should inquire about in advance from a veterinarian or breeder. Typically, this procedure is quick and easy, without the need for professional help.

Pug fur requires careful maintenance. The folds on the dog’s face and back need to be inspected daily for rashes and should be regularly wiped with special solutions, the recommendations for which are best obtained from a professional veterinary clinic or breeder. Proper temperature control is crucial, as pugs sweat and can easily catch a cold from drafts or sudden temperature changes.

Though pugs have short and fine fur, it still needs to be brushed. This should be done at least 1-2 times a week, and daily during shedding periods. Otherwise, all the furniture in the house will be covered in hair. It’s not necessary to hire groomers since this task is not complicated, and the dog’s grateful “smile” and unique gaze will reward the caring owner for their efforts. Moreover, this is another opportunity to spend time with your four-legged friend.As is customary, a dog’s nails should be trimmed with special tools. Premium quality nail clippers are recommended. There’s no precise guideline for trimming intervals; typically, the need for a trim is determined individually during inspections of your pet’s paws.Vaccination is an integral part of caring for your dog. Please do not neglect vaccinations. They help keep your pet healthy and improve the quality and longevity of their life. It’s best to gather information about all necessary vaccinations from the breeder or the veterinary clinic where the dog will be monitored.

Training and Education

The Pug has lived with families for centuries, which has developed its intelligence well. It wouldn’t be accurate to say that Pugs are eager to learn new commands. They can understand what interests them without special training. However, if the owners want a well-behaved pet, they must be patient, flexible, and persistent. You cannot force these dogs to do anything against their will. Training should occur in a friendly atmosphere; shouting and harshness will definitely harm a Pug’s psyche, rendering all efforts futile. Reward the dog with praise each time the puppy correctly completes a task. Using treats as a reward can also be effective, but gentle tones and a pat on the strong neck of your beloved pet always yield positive results. Pay attention to the dog’s tail-it will reveal how happy your praise has made your Pug. And the affectionate and grateful look you receive in return will create memories that last forever.

From the very first appearance of the Dutch Bulldog in the home, an invisible bond forms between it and its owner. This bond is unbreakable and conveys the dog’s mood. The dog seems to “read” what is expected of it.

If learning a command hits a wall, it makes sense to change tactics or temporarily shift to learning “new material.”

In small urban apartments, some owners train their Pugs to use a litter box. This is very convenient, as people today are often busy and might be away from home all day. The lack of movement for the dog during the day should be compensated with walks. It’s sufficient to let your Pug off the leash and allow it to play freely with other dogs in the dog park.

Neglecting the education of your dog is not an option! This will lead to your Pug turning from a friendly, clever companion into a foolish and aggressive troublemaker. Therefore, do not overlook educating your pet from the moment it enters your home, and you will surely be rewarded. Pugs know how to show gratitude. See for yourself. At Zooinika, the best breeders offering puppies with pedigree are gathered.

How to Choose a Puppy

Don’t forget that you are about to bring a living being into your home that requires care and attention. The animal can get sick, and you’ll have to forego some of your desires. If you’re not ready for such responsibilities, it’s best not to get a dog.

Once you have made the firm decision to get a companion, especially a delightful one like a pug, clearly define its place in your home. Purchase accessories for your dog in advance: stiff-bristled brushes for grooming, leashes, harnesses, nail clippers, and bowls for water and food. Don’t skimp on these accessories; it’s best to choose premium quality.

Check all the documents for the dog from the breeder, and pay attention to the parents of your pug-their appearance and behavior will indicate what your dog will be like in the future. Never buy a puppy through internet ads or at a flea market. The pug is a very popular breed, and sellers often rush to make a quick profit, intentionally hiding defects that may not be visible in a young puppy but can develop over time. Carefully examine the puppy, paying special attention to its eyes: there should be no cloudiness, as this can be a sign of a serious illness.

When choosing, you will be able to see that one special pug for you. Remarkably, at that same moment, your pug will see its one and only owner. From the best breeders in the country-find your pet at Zooinca.

Health and Illnesses

The most common ailments in pugs are obesity, colds, and eye diseases. Obesity is often caused by overeating, improperly selected food, and lack of physical activity.

Eye diseases can arise from mechanical injuries during play and walks, as well as from infections resulting from inadequate care. Typically, the condition begins with cloudiness of the cornea. In some cases, small ulcers may develop on the sclera. In all situations, an urgent visit to the veterinarian is necessary.

Temperature regulation issues can lead to colds. A distinctive feature of Dutch bulldogs is that they sweat. Bathing dogs is acceptable only in cases of severe dirtiness; otherwise, a special protective layer inherent to the breed can be washed away.

The folds of skin require careful attention, as they can develop chafing and infections if not properly maintained.

Pugs, like all brachycephalic breeds, often suffer from excessive strain on the heart due to breathing difficulties. Avoid overexerting your dog with physical exercise to prevent these issues. You can help your dog breathe easier by removing excess mucus from the nostrils using special products. Zoonyka makes it easy and attracts the attention of buyers.