Being one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, Pugs have played with children and lounged with emperors. Their lovable round face and distinctive wrinkles have charmed people from all walks of life for centuries. Here are some captivating facts about Pugs that shed light on why they are among the most cherished breeds worldwide.
10 Fascinating Pug Facts
1. Pugs were possibly crafted by Tibetan monks who also established the breed standard.
Tibetan Monks are believed to have developed three dog breeds around the 4th century B.C. to delight the Chinese emperor, which include the Pekingese, Chow-Chow, and the Pug.
2. Their wrinkles have a special significance.
Legend has it that Pugs were selectively bred to have wrinkles that form the Chinese character for “prince.”
3. Dutch traders brought the Pug to Europe during the 1500s.
The Pug made its way to Holland during the Renaissance period. In Dutch-speaking regions, the Pug is known as Mopshond, meaning “to grumble,” possibly stemming from their adorable snorts.
4. The Pug was the symbol of the House of Orange.
Legend has it that a courageous royal Pug saved Prince William the Silent from an assassination attempt, leading to them becoming the mascot of the House of Orange. The Pug alerted the prince by jumping on his face and barking when intruders approached his tent.
5. Pugs have been beloved by both royals and revolutionaries.
Pugs have had famous admirers from different walks of life. Notable Pug owners in the 19th century included Napoleon Bonaparte’s wife Josephine and Queen Victoria.
6. The American Kennel Club (AKC) categorizes Pugs under the Toy group.
Groomed to be companions, Pugs fit well into the Toy category. They have been part of the AKC since 1885, just a year after the club was established.
7. Biggie the Pug won the Best Toy Dog title at the 2018 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Ch. Dhandys Favorite Woodchuck was the only Pug to ever win Best In Show, achieving the feat in 1981.
8. Doug the Pug boasts over 1 billion views on YouTube.
This celebrity Pug from Nashville has traveled extensively, amassed a massive fan following, and even made a guest appearance in a Katy Perry music video. His owner, Leslie Mosier, plays guitar and sings to entertain Doug, who enthusiastically listens.
9. National Pug Day falls on October 15th.
It’s a perfect occasion to celebrate these special four-legged friends and perhaps a great reason to consider adopting one if you don’t already have a Pug in your life.
10. According to the AKC, a double curled tail is considered ideal for Pugs.
A Pug’s tail naturally curls twice. However, some Pugs can develop a tightly curled tail, termed corkscrew tail, which might lead to health issues like bacterial infections due to restricted airflow between the curls. In severe cases, Pugs with corkscrew tails might need corrective surgery for normal bowel movements.
Tips for Taking Care of a Pug
Height: 10–13 inches
Weight: 14–18 pounds
Life expectancy: 13–15 years
Pugs are low-maintenance pets. They are not very high-energy and are usually content relaxing at home as long as they have your company. Known for being affectionate towards individuals and families, Pugs also get along well with other pets.
Grooming
While they do shed, grooming a Pug is relatively simple. Avoid bathing them too frequently to prevent drying out their skin. Apart from regular tooth brushing and occasional nail trimming, they don’t require extensive grooming. Given their sensitive skin, dress them warmly during cold walks and shield them from extended sun exposure, applying dog-safe sunscreen if needed.
Exercise
Despite their reluctance to exercise, it’s crucial to keep Pugs active to prevent weight gain. Since Pugs love food, obesity can be a concern. Aim for two 20–40 minute walks daily or a longer outing in the morning or evening.
Due to their short noses, Pugs are prone to breathing difficulties. Be cautious when exercising them in hot weather and ensure they always have access to fresh water. Schedule walks during cooler parts of the day in summer and dress them warmly in winter, limiting outdoor time to midday.
Suitability
While not needing intensive physical activity, Pugs crave constant attention. Originally bred as lap dogs, they can get despondent if left alone for long periods. Best suited for retirees, families with kids, or remote workers due to their clingy nature, Pugs might not be the ideal choice for commuters but with extra care, the relationship can work.
Summary
Whether residing in a humble abode or a regal palace, Pugs, with their adaptable and affectionate nature, have won hearts across the globe. Originating in China, these ancient companions have achieved widespread admiration irrespective of their surroundings.
Related Read:
- 8 Beautiful Pug Colors & Patterns (With Pictures)
- White Pug: Facts, Origin & History (with Pictures)
Sources
- AKC
- Daily Pet
- Doug The Pug
- Mental Floss
- Bustle
- The Happy Puppy Site
- VCA Hospitals
- AKC
- Westminster Kennel Club
Featured Image Credit: Iryna Kalamurza, Shutterstock
