They stand 12 to 14 inches tall (at the shoulders).
They typically weigh between 13 and 20 pounds.
These dogs have a wrinkly type face with a round shaped head.
Their tail is curled and sits up high over the hindquarters.
They have a short coat that is soft to the touch.
You can find these small dogs in the following colors:
black
apricot
silver
fawn
Pug Characteristics & Temperament
These are typically happy little dogs.
They truly enjoy human companionship and are quite faithful toward their master and immediate family.
These small dogs are good with children, other dogs, and other household pets.
They are also friendly toward strangers and visitors. They will bark when someone is at the door; however they are not overly alert. Hence, this small breed is a moderate watch dog.
This dog enjoys taking daytime naps and will happily dose off next to you while you watch television.
They are relatively intelligent and may need mental stimulation from time to time. However, they are not overly excited and can be quite relaxed.
Living Standards
This breed is wonderful for apartment living.
They do not require extensive exercise and will do just fine without a yard.
Exercise
These small dogs should be walked on a daily basis (a short distance will suffice).
They do not require too much in addition to a walk. Playtime indoors is all that is required. If your Pug begins to wheeze, then playtime is over.
Be sure to provide them with dog toys and bones to chew as well.
Litter Size
This breed will typically have between 2 and 4 pups per litter.
Health and Life Expectancy
This is a moderately healthy breed.
This breed does not do well in extreme temperatures.
Certain health issues related to these small dogs include:
The life expectancy of these dogs is typically between 12 and 15 years of age.
Trainability and Obedience
Due to their intelligence, this breed is not too difficult to obedience train.
Simply be firm and consistent when training (never aggressive). These dogs can be somewhat sensitive to your tone of voice.
Show this dog that you are the leader.
For the best results, begin training this breed when they are pups.
Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.
Grooming
Due to the length of their coat, these dogs are not difficult to groom.
Simply brush them a regular basis (use a firm bristle brush).
Bathe them when necessary.
Be sure to wipe their face and eyes clean on a daily basis.
History
This breed is quite old and its origins are somewhat unknown.
Evidence of these small dogs date as far back as 400 B.C.
It is believed that they originated in Asia and is related to the Pekingese (at least that’s one of the more common theories).
Over time, these small dogs have been recognized in different cultures throughout the world and owned by famous people throughout history. For example:
Companions of Buddhist Monks
Popular among Asian Royalty
Owned by Prince William II
Became the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland
Josephine (wife of Napoleon) owned this small dog and used him to deliver secret notes to her husband after her imprisonment.
This breed was brought to England after the British invaded China in 1860.
This small dog was first recognized by the AKC in 1885.
