The Pug is one of the oldest dog breeds around. The first pug dates back to around 3000 years ago in China, and still today its origins are quite uncertain as there are many debates regarding its real ancestors.
Brief history
This breed was first brought to Europe by Dutch traders, and in 1573 it became a favourite pet in England, and later reached Italy in 1750, and it is believed to have been first seen in Padua in the Veneto Region, north Italy.
Features
The pug is a small-sized dog and can reach a height of about 20 to 35cm with an average weight of around 6 to 9kg. There are also some exceptions where some pugs weigh around 14kg, but considering the difficulty it has in breathing, many vets recommended to keep pugs at a healthy weight of no more than 9kg, especially in summer.
Pugs have some unique characteristics like their small ears that seem like velvet, the famous “black snout”, a very wrinkly skin and a distinguished curly tail like that of a “little pig”.
They have very short fur which they tend to shed quite a lot, and the colours range from light grey, to apricot to black – the most popular, and fawn. An interesting fact is that black-coated pugs don’t have an undercoat and are more likely to suffer from the cold in winter but they definitely shed less fur than the other colours.
Compared to other toy puppies, pugs have a short yet muscular and compact body, yes that’s right! Muscular so don’t think that it’s all fat! They have a big round head with a short muzzle and two big, round eyes that look like two rare pearls.
Characteristics
They are known as “slipper dogs” because they love taking long naps during the day but they are also very intelligent and happy dogs that love playing, going for walks especially if followed by delicious snacks, they have a strong personality and they love being at the centre of attention.
Pugs are also very stubborn, but if well trained, they become your very best friend for life and they know how to listen.
They generally adjust well to all types of environments and they love people in general, in fact they tend to suffer if you leave them for too long alone so they’re not suitable if you spend too much time away from home.
Caring for pugs
Compared to other breeds, pugs need extra care and attention especially when it comes to health so before buying or adopting one, you need to think this over carefully.
Even though they have short fur, pugs need regular brushing; they need to be bathed once a month and every week you need to carefully clean the wrinkles on their muzzle to avoid any infection.
Their eyes are very delicate too and they should be kept hydrated especially in summer or after a day at the beach to avoid infections or ulcers.
Let’s not forget that because of their short muzzle they get tired easily and in extreme cases, they risk breathing problems or heat waves – for these reasons it is best to avoid walking your pug in hot weather and opt for cool morning or evening walks.
Pugs love to eat! And given the occasion they can even eat too much and risk becoming obese.
Loyal friends
They are very loyal to their owner and they will wait hours in front of the door for their return to greet them with doggy kisses and they can make you feel like you’re the most important person around. They live for you and constantly give you their love without wanting much in return – just a look or a little pet and soon you too will become one with them and you won’t be able to do without that bond that will keep growing, day after day.
The love for a pug has no limits as it strikes you right in the heart to take over it – I cannot imagine my life without a pug.
Valentina Carletti
A warm-hearted thank you to Valentina Carletti and her gorgeous pugs Mia & Milo
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