Pug
Is a Pug the Right Choice For You?
Anyone that has seen Men in Black or Milo and Otis, has
probably fallen in love with the Pugs that acted in these
films. The appearance of this dog attracts people to it, but
the personality wins lifelong devotion of dog fanciers.
The Pug is classified in the Toy Group by the AKC. It weighs
14 to 18 pounds and has a smashed face and curly tail giving
it the appearance of a pig. The breed comes in silver, black,
or beige colors with a black mask. Their chests are broad and
they are quite muscular despite their small size.
Pugs are very good natured, but will fight any intruder that
threatens its human. Pugs are great with children and other
animals and have been known to carry escaped birds back to
their owner. Pugs create more allergy problems than other
breeds and those that have allergy induced asthma should not
own this breed.
Pugs are happy to live in apartments or town homes. This breed
doesn't require a lot of exercise but should be kept in shape
to maintain health. A daily walk around the block is enough. A
harness should be used with this breed rather than a collar so
the animal doesn't develop issues with the windpipe.
Pugs can be obedience trained but they are not fast learners.
The animal may not learn to sit or heel as quickly as other
breeds do. The dog is quite proud once a command is learned.
Obedience classes may help but if the animal can't grasp a
command it is best to wait a few months and try again.
This breed loves to eat and will eat whatever you give them.
It will also learn undignified tricks if it is rewarded with
treats. Every effort should be made to limit the dog's food
consumption because these dogs suffer from knee problems that
become worse if the animal is overweight. This breed can also
suffer from Demodectic mange and suffers from eye injuries
frequently.
A Pug is ideal for anyone looking for a dog that needs little
grooming. The dog's coat only needs to be brushed weekly to
remove loose hair and dirt. The face creases should be watched
also to be sure they do not begin to smell or develop
bacteria.
Anyone looking for a small breed that is all heart and doesn't
mind snoring or snorting should consider a Pug.
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