The phrase that is commonly used to describe a pug is “multum in parvo” which means “a lot of dog in a small space.” This breed is recognized for the dogs’ cool temper, playful personalities, and their outgoing, loving dispositions. A popular companion dog, the pug also excels in the show ring. The Pug’s reason for living is to be near their people and to please them, and their sturdiness makes them a family favorite.
The Pug is one of the oldest breeds known today. The breed is believed to have originated before 400 BC. As for the origin of the pug, it still remains debatable. Most researchers agree that the pug originated from Asia, descended from a shorthaired Pekingese. Another theory is that it is the result of crossing a small Bulldog, while others speculate that it is a miniature form of the French Mastiff.
The breed became popular during Victorian times in the 19th century. Tibetan monasteries kept pugs as pets. The breed made its way to Japan and Europe, where it not only became a pet of royalty but the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland. Prince William II owned Pugs. One dog in particular was said to have saved his life in 1572 at Hermingny, when the dog barked at approaching Spaniards alerting him of their presence.
In France, Napoleon’s wife Josephine had a Pug named Fortune. On their wedding night, when Napoleon refused to allow the dog to sleep in their bed, Josephine told her husband that if the pug wasn’t going to sleep on the bed, neither would she. When Josephine was sent to prison she used the little dog to send secret messages to her husband by placing a note under the collar of her Pug.
Physical wise, a Pug is a small, stocky, square, thickset dog.
Head – massive and round
Muzzle – short, blunt, and square-shaped
Moles – scattered on the cheeks
Teeth – meet in a slight undershot bite
Eyes – very large, dark, and prominent
Ears – small, thin
Nose- either rose or button shaped
Face – has large deep wrinkles
Tail – high-set, curled over the back
Pug’s dewclaws are usually removed. The short coat is soft, fine and smooth. Coat colors come in apricot, fawn, black and silver.
Prev1 of 3Next
