The Pug - Little Dog In Charge

Small and spunky, the pug dates back over 2000 years. Their story is rich in history and they have been favorite subjects for many painters. They weigh between 14-18 pounds and are 10 inches to 14 inches in height. They are known as Mops in Germany and Carlin in France.

The Pug comes in many colors including black, apricot-fawn or silver. They are AKC recognized. Their short, smooth, glossy, fine coat is very easy to groom. They only need an occasional brushing and only need bathed with necessary. Be sure to clean the creases in their face regularly. Pugs have been known to love attention and they typically enjoy the attention that a good brushing gives them. Their curly tail, flat muzzle and prominent eyes are three of their best known appearance traits.

Born to be a companion dog, the Pug loves attention and being with their family. They need a family that will not leave them alone for long periods of time on a regular basis and do best in homes where someone is around most of the time. They are a lap dog and enjoy relaxing with their family, but they also have an energetic side and need plenty of play time. Be sure that you don't over exert them. They are happy-go-lucky little dogs. They do well with other pets and dogs, but early socialization is recommended. They have an *I'm in charge* attitude with their family and other pets. Due to this reason and their small size, they work best with older, well behaved children. They will let you know if they hear an unfamiliar sound or if someone is at the door making them excellent watchdogs.

Dating back to 700 BC, the Pug originated in China. There is a debate among many groups as to which dogs were used to develop the pug. Pugs were mainly used as companion dogs for royalty and nobility. They were introduced to Europe through trade ships traveling between China and Europe. It is said that a Pug saved the life of William, Prince of Orange by alerting him that the Spaniards were approaching. Napoleon's wife used a Pug to send a secret message to him when she was in prison. Winston Churchill's wife called him by the nickname Pug. Many of you might be familiar with the famous pug Frank that appeared in the movies Men in Black and Men in Black II.

With their loveable, happy nature and need for affection and companionship, the Pug makes an excellent dog for families looking for a lap dog with a take charge attitude. They enjoy traveling or staying at home as they are happy whenever and wherever they are with their family. Their whimsical looks and nature make them hard to resist.

By: Dakota Dog

Post edited by: hedvig, at: 2009/06/01 04:43

Pugs - Those Sweet Little Puppies who Actually are Dogs
by: Cien Aime

Pug is the tiny dog that's almost like a toy. It got noticed in the 19th century. It is 11inches tall and has a weight of about 18 lbs. Its ears and mask are black in color whereas the color of the coat is apricot fawn or silver. The fur of pug is shiny, smooth and short. China is the origin of pugs. The East India Company introduced these pugs to Holland and England. Because of their compact toy like appearance they became favorite pet of the royal families. In the contemporary times pugs are used as watchdogs apart from being the popular pets.

Pugs are known to be stubborn but they behave well in society. Pugs have flat wrinkled faces, their tails are curled and their body is compressed. Although small in stature but these dogs are robust. They are easily taken care of and they are groomed easily. This makes them hot favorite with the people who are extremely crazy for pets but have no time to look after them. The only drawback with these pugs is that they shed much more than their counterparts. If raised properly they are compatible with children and other house pets. Pugs are intelligent like other dogs and pick up things fast. However, because of their stubborn nature they are not very obedient.

The pugs look attractive because of their wrinkled face which appears expressive as well. Although easy to handle, these pugs develop different health problems, because of which they are not as popular as other breeds of dogs. Since these pugs have too short snouts, they tend to scratch their corneas and as a result they face some breathing problems. The most common of all the problems is the skin problem.

The crevices present between the wrinkles on their faces are required to be kept clean all the time in order to keep them away from major skin problems. Their flat faces give rise to tooth and mouth diseases. Pugs tend to put on weight very easily and can become highly obese sometimes. The pugs are so prone to brain disease that the disease has been named after their breed, Pug Dog Encephalitis. In this there is the swelling of the brain. The cause and cure of this disease is still not known.

Some of the pugs have acted in famous movies too. Frank, a pug, has acted in the movies "Men in Black" and its sequel. The "Adventures of Milo and Otis" had pug as one of its lead stars.

Post edited by: hedvig, at: 2009/06/01 04:43