Pugs

Remember Frank from the 1997 movie Men in Black?  How about Percy Pug from the 1995 animated film Pocahontas?  If you’re an Anime lover, do you know Pakkun from the Naruto series?  All of these characters belong to one breed of dog. 

Pugs are one of the old dog breeds.  Its origin is still debatable.  Some say it came from China while others say it came from Europe.  Regardless of where it came from, pugs also had a remarkable role in history.  Stories show that in England, a pug named Mops became an emissary for the wife of Napoleon, Josephine, when she was imprisoned.  In England, an unnecessary practice that later on became trend gave Pugs an unimaginable suffering.  The practice was to pull the ears of the Pug from its root.  It was believed that such procedure gives the pug the desired meaningful facial expression and the then in-style cropped ears.  Fortunately, Queen Victoria, a big Pug fan, ordered the practice banned all over England because of its cruelty.

At first glance, Pugs appear as an unusual mix for a dog.  It has a short and dark muzzle, robust chest, little legs, curled up tail and big, round eyes.  The first impression that a person may apply to this breed of dog is not love at first sight. Despite their seemingly unwelcoming appearance, there is more to love with this kind of dog. 

Pugs are classified by the American Kennel Club under the toy category.  The male Pug grows from twelve (12) to fourteen (14) inches and may weigh from thirteen (13) to twenty (20) pounds.  The female Pug is slightly lighter than the male.  It can grow from ten (10) to twelve (12) inches and may weigh only thirteen (13) to eighteen (18) pounds.  They have a life expectancy of twelve (12) to fifteen (15) years depending on the lifestyle and health condition.

When it comes to maintenance, Pugs are not very in need of such.  Pugs have short coat which requires not much combing or washing.  It is easier to manage and is less prone to unwanted ticks and fleas.  Just a simple wash and brush will suffice for its coat maintenance.  The owner must pay attention to the creases in the face.  If not cleaned regularly, it may become a source of infections or home for parasites.  Proper diet and moderate exercise will also give the Pug a healthy being.

Pugs have difficulty with temperatures.  Their short coat is makes it difficult for them to adjust on the extremes.  During cold weather, they are susceptible to colds.  On hot weather, they are prone to heat stroke.  In addition to their weather issues, they are also susceptible to skin and breathing problems.  Feeding the Pug may also become a problem if done in excess.  It may cause obesity later on.

Having a pug gives the owner less time for the maintenance of the dog and more time to enjoy its companionship.  This playful dog will definitely win the hearts of every dog lover in no time.