The Pug (sometimes called the "Chinese Pug", "Dutch Mastiff" or "Dutch Bulldog") is one of the largest toy dogs that features a short-muzzled face, big eyes, curly tail and a glossy coat that is sometimes pure black but most often fawn with a black face mask. The breed has origins dating back to around 400BC in China, and they were initially used for the chief function of being companion dogs for Chinese royalty.

Some of their more distinct features typically include their adorable appearance, adaptability, charm and playful temperament - which in essence make the Pug one of the most popular of all breeds for families, retirees and apartment dwellers as well as the occasional competitor in agility or obedience.

The Pug is famous for their pleasant, charming and dignified personality. They are generally very friendly with guests and attempts to make everyone their new best friend, which can mean they are unsuitable as a guard dog.

The Pug is also demonstrated to be moderately intelligent - ranking 57th compared to other dogs when taking into account their capacity to be taught obedience directives. They are additionally renowned to be great with children and can become good playmates - making them highly suitable as a family pet. The Pug is very well-matched with other animals such as cats, rabbits, birds and other dogs.

Grooming the Pug is a pretty simple procedure. They need a minimal amount of brushing only when necessary with regular cleaning around the face.

The Pug doesn't need a yard and is relatively inactive while inside, so they are very suitable for apartment living just as long as they are exercised on a regular basis. They can be uncomfortable in both hot and cold environments and will prefer to remain inside in an air-conditioned environment for most of the time.

The Pug can make the right breed of dog for families, retirees, apartment dwellers and other fun-loving owners. They are appropriate to anybody who is able to perform a minimal amount of grooming and take time to give them basic obedience training at an early age as well as take them for short walks every day when it's cool and give a very high quantity of love and attention. Although they could be a little out of place for a guard dog or in extreme climates, if you are capable of meeting their need for human interaction, careful feeding and a comfortable living environment in terms of temperature then the Pug might be the ideal dog for you.