Pugs
From LoveToKnow Dogs
About Chinese Pug Dogs
Pugs are a member of the Toy Group, and as such are bred to be companion animals. These dogs are very stocky in appearance, with a broad chest and strong, muscular legs. Their heads are very round with lots of facial wrinkles and an extremely flat muzzle that is nearly identical to that of a Pekingese. The teeth should be set slightly undershot, which means the lower jaw extends a little farther out than the upper jaw. Ear leathers and coat are short, and the tail is carried tightly curved over the body.
The average Pug is a golden/fawn color with a black facial mask and black ear tippings, however there are solid black Pugs and even more rarely apricot or silver.
These flat-faced canines are believed to have originated in ancient China, along with other breeds including Shih Tzu, Pekingese, and Lhasa Apsos.
Personality
Pugs are known for their wonderful temperaments, and they are usually a good choice for a family pet. They have plenty of energy but know when to give it a rest. They show a great deal of affection for their human companions and get along well with other dogs in most situations.
Training
These are intelligent little dogs and do well with proper training. Potty training is a little harder for young puppies to grasp, but improves greatly with age and training consistency on the part of the owner.
Pugs are also terrific candidates for obedience training, which suits their energy level without too much physical exertion with exception to the jumps. However, they may not be best suited to agility. Because of their short muzzles, which put them in the category of Brachycephalic dogs, This breed does not have the same stamina of other breeds. They may be prone to becoming winded earlier, and need a little extra protection from the heat. Ultimately, every dog is an individual and there are likely some wonderful Pug agility dogs out there that experience none of these potential problems.
Grooming Tips
Grooming Pugs is relatively standard. A nice bath once or twice a month will keep them fresh and clean. Special attention should be paid to the facial wrinkles which are prone to collecting dirt and tearing from the eyes, causing a sour smelling, and cheesy-like substance. Use a wet wash cloth to gently wipe out the wrinkles between baths and this should eliminate any problems. Shedding is moderate and a weekly brushing is helpful. Toe nails should be kept moderately short. If there is any question about cleaning the anal glands it is best to leave it to a veterinary professional.
Miscellaneous Facts
- Twelve year average life span.
- Average weight is fourteen to eighteen pounds.
- The average puppy price is approximately $500 for pet quality, and the price rises for show quality specimens, and rare colors.
- Litters average one to three pups, with C-sections being common due to the broadness of the puppies' heads.
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Comments
Hi Kayla,
I can't be sure without seeing the rash, but it sounds a lot like puppy pyoderma. This is something your vet should be able to clear up with a little medication. Go ahead and make an appointment before the condition spreads. It's always easiest to treat skin disorders in the early stages.
Thanks for your question. :)
-- Contributed by: KellyMy pug is a male and is a little over a year old and he has these pimple looking things on his chin. What are they and are they harmful and how can they be treated?
-- Contributed by: KaylaMy pug is 7 years old and i would like to breed her once is she to old?
- Hi Becky,
Pregnancy always carries some level of risk, but it's slightly higher when breeding a bitch for the first time after five years old. The uterus typically isn't as elastic as it would have been in the bitch's prime. Dilation during delivery can also be a problem. Personally, I've always retired my bitches from breeding at age five, although I do know of other breeders who have continued to breed past this age. There's just no way to predict what will happen. Your bitch could sail through without a problem, but you should keep the risks in mind as you weigh whether the breeding is truly worth it.
Whatever you decide to do, I hope it all works out for you. Thanks for your question.
-- Contributed by: beckyThis page has been accessed 2,372 times. This page was last modified 22:59, 5 October 2006.
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