A native of China, the Pug is a playful breed that is highly intelligent.
They come in two colors, black and fawn.

Physical Characteristics

• Stocky, square-shaped body
• Coat: soft, sleek hair
• Coat colors may be black and fawn
• Short and flat black muzzle
• Ears are soft and smooth
• Has moles on cheeks
• Tail rests in tight or double curl
• Height: 10-14 inches
• Weight: 13-20 pounds
• Average lifespan: 13-15 years

Temperament

• Rambunctious, playful, charming, loyal, loving, happy, upbeat, mischievous
• Interactions with people: Good with kids, visitors
• Interactions with animals: Good with other dogs and pets
• Level of attention needed: Needs lots of attention
• Training: Highly intelligent; will become bored with training that's too repetitive. Sensitive to human tone of voice; be gentle during discipline
• Protection: Good watchdogs

At Home

• OK for apartments
• Very sensitive to extreme weather; keep indoors at moderate temperature
• Needs daily walks

Grooming

• Very easy to groom
• Frequent shedder
• Brush and comb should have firm bristles
• Dry quickly and thoroughly after a bath to prevent chill
• Creases on face require regular cleaning

Brief History

• Bred in East China during the Shang Dynasty (1600 to 1046 B.C.)
• Ancestors were companions of Buddhist priests
• Imported to Holland in late 16th century
• Became popular in the European courts in the 16th century
• Popularity peaked during Victorian era
• First came to America shortly after Civil War

Fido's Facts

• While imprisoned at Les Carmes, Napoleon's wife sent her husband secret messages under her pug’s collar
• Widely portrayed in 19th-century paintings
• The word "pug" may have come from the Old English pugg, which was an affectionate term for a playful little devil or monkey