Pug Dog Breed Information

Group

Toy

Weight

6.3kg-8.1 kg

Height

25-30 cm

Lifespan

13-15 years

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About the Pug

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

Thinking of adding a furry member to your family? Well, the pug is a great option for those looking for a relatively small dog with a huge heart.

They are an ideal breed for first-time pet owners that adapt well to a variety of living conditions – whilst being extremely friendly towards children and strangers!

Pugs adopt quite a laid-back attitude compared to other toy breeds of dogs that seem to never get tired. Each pug has their own unique personality but as a whole, they are often described as having a dry sense of humour. This means you might expect some sassy attitude from your four-legged friend, but they will always try to please!

What is the history & origin of the Pug?

The origin of the pug can be traced back to China and more specifically from the mastiff-type dogs. The pug is likely the result of being bred down from this dog over hundreds of years.

The cute round-faced canine became a popular option for those looking for a small companion, so much so, they were transported over to Holland on trading ships.

The reason the pug is often thought of as coming out of Holland is because of a single event that happened in 1572. The pug became the official dog of Holland after alerting Prince William to the presence of Spanish soldiers mounting an attack. After this, the pug became synonymous with the Netherlands.

Other notable characters that had a pug as a pet include Napoleon’s wife, as well as the duchess and duke of Windsor. During the victorian era, the pug came into fashion as a trendy canine to own and the four-legged friend can be seen in many paintings from that time.

What is a Pug breed?

The pug can be described as a purebred dog and a toy breed although they lack the fluffball appearance that you often find with dogs in this same category. They are relatively sturdy little dogs that are best known for having a round head with large eyes and prominent facial wrinkles.

In comparison to their small legs and body, their head is actually quite big with cute little rose-shaped ears and a short black muzzle. Unlike other toy canines, the pug has a coat length that’s pretty short and polished. This makes maintenance a lot easier than other dog breeds and requires less complicated grooming.

The pug can be one of two colours. The first is fawn which is probably the most common colour that highlights their button nose and curly tail. The second is the distinct all-black coat which stands out amongst all the other dogs at the park.

Learn more about: Pug Colours

Who is a Pug best for?

The pug is an extremely friendly breed of dog that enjoys all the attention you give them whilst having a laid-back personality that makes them a joy to be around.

They are especially good at adapting to the environment they are in, making them perfect for those in big and small living spaces. Whether you live in a busy household or if you are on your own, the pug will be happy to be around lots of people or just you.

Thinking of having guests around for a dinner party? No problem, this four-legged friend is usually open to meeting strangers. Lots of kids and new adults just mean more friends and playtime!

Pug Grooming & Shedding

Unlike some other short-haired dogs, pugs do shed and therefore will require some form of grooming. Do not stress though as it is easily managed with simple daily brushing to keep things in order. You might find that black pugs shed slightly less hair than the fawn pugs however both will shed all year round.

As cute as the pug’s facial wrinkles are, it is important to keep them clean by wiping them in the folds to make sure dirt does not build up as this increases the chance of the dog getting an infection. Like all other dogs, checking and cleaning ears will keep your companion in top shape.

Other normal dog grooming steps include the occasional bath (around once a month) to keep the little guy smelling fresh and clean. And of course, keeping on top of dental care is key in maintaining your dog’s health.

Learn more about: Pug Grooming Tips & Styles

Do Pugs bark a lot?

One of the most appealing characteristics of pugs is that they do not bark that much. This makes them ideal for those living in apartment blocks with neighbours or those who just like a quiet house.

When they do bark it is usually because they are very excited or someone new is coming over and who wouldn’t get excited about that!

What is the average weight & height of a Pug?

The pug has been bred for its small and sturdy stature with the weight range for both males and females being between 6.3kg-8.1kg. Of course, this can vary quite a lot depending on how much exercise the dog gets. It should be said that pugs are quite prone to becoming obese so it is important to pay attention to their diet and exercise.

The average height for pugs is around 28cm for males and 30cm for females. Again, this will vary and depend on the size of the parents.

Learn more about: Pug Size & Weight Chart

Are Pugs easy to train?

For being such a small dog, the pug is quite a smart breed that learns quickly. This makes dog training a pleasant experience and offers both of you an important time to bond properly.

A good tip for training your pug is to use food as a reward. Pugs love food and so with enough treats and love you will have them following your every command in no time!

Learn more about: Pug Training Guide – Crate, Toilet & More Tips!

How do Pugs behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Pugs are extremely playful and affectionate dogs that aim to please those around them. This makes them perfect for small or big families with lots of children or none at all!

They are not known to be aggressive and are quite patient dogs which is ideal around a bunch of crazy kids.

Learn more about: Pug Temperament & Personality Traits

Does the Pug have any common health issues?

Arguably the most important thing to remember with pugs is their eyes. Because they are quite prominent, it means they are a lot more vulnerable to damage. Regular checks of the eyes and the surrounding area will help to keep your dog healthy.

Other common issues include skin issues and some problems with joints. If you suspect your pug has some of these problems then it is important to contact your vet as soon as possible.

A unique condition that can arise is something called pug dog encephalitis which is genetic and can be fatal for pugs. Unfortunately, there isn’t much that can be done for the unlucky dogs that have this condition but luckily it is quite rare.

Learn more about: Common Pug Health Issues

What is the lifespan of a Pug?

The nature of a pug being a toy breed means that they have a relatively long lifespan compared to other bigger dogs. The average life expectancy for a pug is around 13 to 15 years.

How much does a Pug need to be fed?

Pugs love food. If you find your pug has lost their appetite then it is a sign that something might be wrong. Although we all love to shower our pets with treats it is important to stick to a healthy diet to prevent obesity.

The quantity of dog food is important in maintaining a healthy weight but nutrition is also key. Your pup will need the right foods to grow into a healthy adult dog and live a good life.

Learn more about: What to Feed a Pug? Diet & Feeding Chart

How much can you expect to pay for a Pug in Australia?

The prices for a pet pug ranges from below $1,000 up to $2,500. It should be said that for a pug that comes from a reputable breeder the price will start around the $1,500 mark.

Anything less for a pug puppy and the quality of the breeder starts to come into question.

Learn more about: Pug Prices In Australia

Pug FAQs

Do all Pugs suffer from breathing issues?

Because many pugs have very flat faces, they are a lot more likely to suffer breathing difficulties. It is estimated that around half of all pugs will experience some form of difficulty with breathing.

Is a Pug dog a good pet for children?

Pugs are great pets for children both as a puppy and as adult dogs. The pug dog breed is an extremely friendly and social dog making them perfect for noisy and energetic kids.

Are Pugs okay to live with other dogs?

Yes! Pugs are known for getting on well with other dogs and pets. Not only are they happy around people, but they are also often very gentle around other animals.

What are toy breeds?

A toy breed of dogs refers to a group of dogs that weigh 6.8kg or less once fully grown. It is just a way to categorize smaller dogs and the word toy refers to these smaller dogs resembling stuffed toy animals.