Pugs are a very popular breed of dog with pet owners. It is no surprise as these adorable creatures have bags of personality, definite cute factor and have the ability to be a companion to families, singletons, and seniors alike. Pugs have a rich history and are one of the oldest breeds. They were considered precious and only monasteries and the Chinese Imperial family were permitted to keep pugs. In fact, female pugs were said to have equal status with the Emperor's wives! The pug soon became popular worldwide and they were often captured in portraits through the years as loyal companions and lap dogs.

Pugs are highly intelligent and clever but they can be challenging to train. However, once you get your pug onside, they will bring immense joy to any household. These tips are designed to make pug training easier for you both.

Be The Leader

Because pugs can be stubborn, they can attempt to be dominant leading to unwanted behaviours such as guarding food and toys and exhibiting jealous, dominant behaviour if they pick up their will is stronger than yours. It is important therefore to be the pack leader and use confident, fair, firm consistent interaction with your dog so he learns you are in charge.

House Training

This is a large subject but it is important for anyone training a dog to consider which method of house training will suit your lifestyle. Pugs are small dogs with equally small bladders so they cannot wait too long to relieve themselves. Crate training will only suit if you are on hand to regularly take your pug to relieve himself. If you are away from the home for long periods, then consider paper training as this will avoid accidents while your pug is in the crate. Choose the method that is fair to the dog and suits your lifestyle.

Collar and Leash

Because pugs can have problems breathing and may have a tendency to collapse their trachea, a simple flat leather collar or preferably a chest harness is the right equipment as it avoids putting too much pressure on. Introduce your pug to the collar and leash is quite simple. Show them to the pug and when he sniffs and investigates, give him a treat. Repeat this a few times and then there will be no problem gently slipping the collar or harness on. Do not over tighten a collar or leave a puppy unattended wearing one.

Teaching to "Come"

Put the lead onto the collar or harness and let the pug drag the lead around before picking it up and encouraging him to follow you on a loose lead. When he follows, make much of him and reward him. When he is showing good following behaviour, move away from him and use the word "come". When he responds, be sure to reward and praise.

Teaching to Sit

"Sit" is an important command to teach during your pug training. It teaches a dog to be mannerly and makes him easier to handle for things like having his leash on or greeting new people. At the same time, this teaches the pug not to jump up when he wants something. Begin by holding a treat in your hand just out of reach. Hold your hand slightly above his head and say, "sit". As you move your hand slightly over his head, he will automatically sit and then you can reward and praise him. Keep practicing and eventually he will not need a treat and will sit to your hand command

Socialization

One of the most important things is to make your pug a pleasure to be around in any company. Not all people are dog lovers, some are nervous and a boisterous pug who does not respect boundaries or becomes aggressive, scared or over excited because of lack of socialization is a nuisance to all. Your pug is part of the family and should quietly behave in all situations. As soon as your pug puppy or older pug has settled in, introduce him to crowded areas such as parks where he can learn to greet other dogs and people. Encourage friends and family to kindly pet him and play with him. If your have outdoor cafes nearby, sit and have a cappuccino and let your pug watch the world go by. He will soon become used to the world and will behave calmly with good manners.

Puppy School

Never under estimate the usefulness of puppy or dog training classes for pugs. Not only is this a perfect environment for socialization but you will also meet other dog owners and will have professional help for any issues you are dealing with

By following these simple tips, pug training will be easier and enjoyable for you and your special little friend.