Pug Breed Guide
Also known as: Chinese Pug, Dutch Mastiff
Wrinkled clowns with big personalities, Pugs are charming, adaptable companions whose moderate size and even temperaments suit various household types perfectly.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Toy
Weight
6-9 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
Low
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Toy
Weight
6-9 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
Low
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Pugs
The Pug originated in China around 400 BC, where they were bred to be companions for Chinese emperors. These small dogs were later brought to Europe by Dutch traders in the 16th century and became popular with European royalty, particularly in Holland and England.
Pugs are small, compact dogs with distinctive wrinkled faces, large eyes, and curly tails. Their short, smooth coats come in fawn or black colours, and they're known for their charming, mischievous personalities.
These dogs are friendly, outgoing, and make excellent family pets. They're known for their love of human companionship and their adaptability to various living situations. They require moderate exercise but can be sensitive to extreme temperatures due to their flat faces. While generally healthy, potential concerns include breathing problems, eye injuries, and weight gain. Daily face cleaning is essential to prevent infection in their wrinkles. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted around other pets and strangers.
Complete Care Guide for Pugs
Expert advice on keeping your Pug healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Maintaining optimal nutrition for your Pug requires careful consideration of their unique physical characteristics and dietary needs. A well-balanced diet featuring high-quality protein sources forms the foundation of their nutritional requirements, while moderate fat content helps sustain their energy levels throughout the day.
Understanding your Pug's brachycephalic anatomy is crucial when selecting appropriate food. Their distinctive flat-faced structure can make certain kibble shapes challenging to grasp and chew. Specially formulated kibble designed for brachycephalic breeds often provides a more comfortable eating experience while promoting better dental health through mechanical cleaning action.
Weight management stands as a critical aspect of Pug nutrition, as these charming companions show a notable tendency toward weight gain. Establishing strict portion control and limiting treats helps maintain a healthy body condition. When offering treats, opt for low-calorie options and ensure they constitute no more than 10% of daily caloric intake.
Including appropriate amounts of fruits and vegetables provides essential dietary fibre, supporting digestive health and regular bowel movements. However, introduce new foods gradually and monitor your Pug's response to prevent digestive upset. Regular consultation with a veterinary professional ensures your Pug's diet aligns with their specific health needs and activity level.
How healthy is your Pug?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Pugs from our community of pet parents
Pugs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are highly sociable dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. Pugs are often described as 'clowns at heart', due to their playful and sometimes mischievous behaviour. Despite their playful nature, they also enjoy their downtime and are quite happy to spend time relaxing with their owners.
Pug Blog Posts & Guides
Expert advice and tips specifically for Pug owners
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