Pugs are small, but sturdy. This means that they withstand rough play from children.
Additionally, they are playful enough that they enjoy the activity. Pugs are natural born clowns with a happy playful personality. Playing games is part of their basic personality. They also possess great intelligence and can be mischievous, making training a challenge at times. While they will keep up with all the action in house, they also can be rather lazy and laid back. They do enjoy sleeping! This breed is great for apartment dwelling and first time dog owners. It is believed that the name comes from Latin for fist. Many people think the face of the Pug resembles a human fist. The breed originated in China and was brought to western Europe by explorers. Pugs have enjoyed many famous owners, like William and Mary from the Netherlands, Marie Antoinette of France, and Queen Victoria of England.
The Pug is typically about 10 to 12 inches tall, weighing around 14 to 18 pounds, and with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. While these dogs are small, compact, muscular, and sturdy they do have some health concerns. Like all short nosed breeds, they do not handle heat and humidity well. Care should be taken to keep the dogs cool in warm, humid climates. This is due to the inability of the Pug to cool themselves because the anatomy does not have enough length to allow for air to cool them well. Another problem with the Pug is Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE). This is seen more in young dogs and may have a genetic component. This disease causes the dog to have seizures, develop blindness, fall into a coma and die. This is typically seen between 6 months and 7 years of age. Due to the large prominent eyes of the Pug and the retrograde eyebrow ridges, eye injuries can happen pretty easily. Eye prolapse has also been a problem with some Pugs.
While the wrinkled skin of the Pug is cute and one of the hallmarks of the breed, it can require some special handling. Pugs are prone to Demodectic Mange and other skin problems. This requires careful attention to cleaning the skin folds. While this is not difficult and is easily done when washing the dog, it is important to note. This also helps prevent yeast and staph infections. The wrinkles of the face must be dried after bathing. Bathing once a month will help to decrease the shedding and keep the skin healthy. The Pug, despite the short hair, sheds readily and is not a hypoallergenic dog by any means. Shedding is much more pronounced during summer months and regular brushing will help tremendously. Nails should be trimmed regularly, especially for the house dog.