Pug Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Pug is a small dog with a large personality, a face full of wrinkles and a talent for making people laugh. It has been bred for centuries purely as a companion, and it takes that job very seriously.

Origins and appearance

The breed is ancient and originated in China, where short-faced dogs were kept by emperors and later arrived in Europe through Dutch traders. Pugs are square and compact, with a deep chest, a curled tail, large dark eyes and a flat, wrinkled face. Coats are short and come in fawn or black.

Temperament

Pugs are playful, adaptable and affectionate. They want to be where the family is and are usually friendly with strangers, children and other pets. They can be stubborn and love to eat, which explains the reputation for scavenging. Most are not heavy barkers, though they snort, snuffle and snore.

Exercise

Pugs enjoy short walks and play but cannot manage long runs or hot weather. Keep activity gentle, avoid exercise in warm or humid conditions and stop if breathing becomes noisy or labored. See dog heatstroke. Use a harness instead of a collar.

Training

Pugs respond to treats and praise. Their appetite is an advantage for training, but it needs boundaries. Keep sessions short and fun, and use small treats counted from the daily food allowance. House training may take time. See how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The short double coat sheds heavily, sometimes surprising new owners. Brush once or twice a week with a rubber brush. Clean facial wrinkles every day with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly, and check the tail pocket. See skin fold dermatitis in dogs. Trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Pugs are among the breeds most affected by head-shape-related problems:

• Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. See health issues in flat-faced breeds
• Eye injuries and ulcers, because the eyes protrude
• Skin fold infections
• Obesity. See dog obesity risks
• Pug dog encephalitis, a rare inflammatory brain disease
• Hemivertebrae and spinal problems
• Hip dysplasia and luxating patella
• Heat intolerance and anesthesia risk

Choose breeders who put airway health first, and avoid extremely flat faces.

Living with a Pug

Pugs suit apartments and families and enjoy being near their people. Keep the home cool, manage weight carefully and keep water access around pools. Avoid long car trips in the heat.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Pug suits owners who want a cheerful, low-exercise companion and accept the health management that comes with the breed. It may not suit someone who wants an athletic dog or a low-shedding coat. For a fluffier alternative, see the Shih Tzu.

Puppies and the first year

Pug puppies are clownish, hungry and prone to chewing. Feed measured meals from the start, since the weight habits formed in the first year last a lifetime. Practice face cleaning and handling, and begin training early before stubborn habits form. Watch for noisy breathing, discharge from the eyes and skin redness in the folds, and mention them at vet visits.

Common owner mistakes

The biggest error is overfeeding, since a heavy Pug breathes worse and ages faster. Others include exercising in the heat, using a collar on a short-necked dog, and treating snoring as normal when it may signal an airway problem. Pugs are also expert counter surfers, so keep food and medication out of reach. Keep their eyes safe from bushes and rough play.

The takeaway

Pugs are funny, friendly and fragile. Control weight, heat and facial folds to keep them comfortable.