Pugs 101

Toy group

The Pug is a sturdy small dog who is, as the breed’s motto says, “Multum in Parvo” – a lot in a little.

These stout little dogs are devoted to their families, playful and loving. They are often social with strangers, and usually fine with other pets. They are intelligent although stubborn at times. Pugs are infamous among groomers and veterinary technicians for disliking nail trims, so it’s essential to start these early and slowly, with treats and praise.

What we love about Pugs

The breed with an actual motto -- in Latin, no less!

The short coat of the Pug is easy to care for, but their skin folds need regular cleaning to keep from developing infections. As with other short-nosed breeds, Pugs overheat easily and need families who'll work to keep them safe.

Energy level
Bark level
  • As needed
Size
10 to 13 inches tall
Lifespan
13 to 15 years
Weight
14 to 18 lbs

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Mature adult Pug

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Urinary bladder stones

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Senior Pug

8+ years

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Collapsed trachea

Diabetes mellitus

Pug puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Ear infection

Young adult Pug

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Ocular (eye) trauma

Mature adult Pug

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Urinary bladder stones

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Senior Pug

8+ years

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Collapsed trachea

Diabetes mellitus

Pug puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Ear infection

Young adult Pug

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Pug conditions

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Ocular (eye) trauma

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3 - pug GettyImages-177358674

Pugs are known for their distinctive wrinkled face and curly tail, but did you know they were once revered in ancient China as loyal companions to royalty? They even had their own dedicated living spaces in the royal palaces.

Pug coat care and colors

The Pug is most commonly seen in a fawn color, but these dogs also come in black. Coat care is relatively easy: Brushing a couple of times a week will reduce shedding, and professional grooming is optional. The biggest problem with grooming for the Pug is skin folds, which need to checked daily and cleaned frequently to prevent irritation and infection. Eyes need to be checked for matter buildup and cleaned as needed.

Pugs are notoriously difficult when it comes to nail trims, putting up a powerful and often noisy resistance. While some pet parents leave the trimming to groomers or veterinary technicians, Pugs do best when acclimated as puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped.

Pug exercise & training

Couch potato

Exercise level

A Pug’s exercise needs can be easily met with a daily stroll – in cool weather, please, since these dogs are prone to overheat. Playful and people-oriented, use indoor games to keep them busy.

Class clown

Trainability

Pugs have a tendency to push back when asked to do things they don’t want to. It’s not personal: Heap on the rewards for good behavior and be patient.

Group 7455

Pug fun facts

Top girl names for Pugs

100%

of Pugs are female

0%

of Pugs are male

Top boy names for Pugs

Nationwide loves Pugs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Pugs

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