Pug Dog Characteristics

Pugs are small, friendly dogs that are noted for their unusual appearance and endearing, often humorous behavior. Pugs are generally fawn or black in color. Although pugs are known as being good companion dogs and generally make very good pets, there are also some drawbacks to pug ownership, such as frequent health problems.

  1. Temperament

    • Pugs are good-natured dogs and get along well with people and other animals. However, they can be stubborn animals at times, which can make them difficult to train or housebreak. With some pugs, the housebreaking process can take up to 6 months. Pugs are not mischievous by nature, but they can be somewhat childlike, meaning they need lots of attention and always want to be near you.

    Physical Characteristics

    • Pugs are known for their short faces; small, stout bodies; and large, expressive eyes. They also have soft coats that are easy to groom, although they shed almost constantly. Pugs are also characterized by the large number of wrinkles on their foreheads.

    Health Problems

    • A downside to owning pugs is their tendency to experience health problems. Their short faces, pinched nostrils and narrow windpipes make breathing difficult, so you should not smoke in the house if you own a pug. Their eyes are susceptible to injury because their shallow eye sockets mean their eyeballs protrude. The folds of skin in their faces can be breeding grounds for bacteria, so it is important to remove any bits of food from the folds after they eat. Pugs are also mouth breathers and tend to swallow air, which can lead to excess flatulence.

    Sounds and Saliva

    • Because of their short faces and breathing difficulties, pugs make a variety of unusual sounds. They produce an odd-sounding bark and are always sniffling, snorting and wheezing. Pugs sleep through much of the day and snore loudly. Pugs are also known for slobbering and drooling, especially after eating or drinking.

    Indoor Dogs

    • Pugs are best kept indoors, where they are less susceptible to extreme temperatures. In fact, extreme humidity can exacerbate their breathing difficulties. Pugs do not like to exercise, which contributes to their tendency to gain weight. Therefore, you should be careful not to overfeed your pug.