Pug

The Pug originated in the Orient where it was miniaturised from mastiffs. It has been domesticated since about 400 B.C. The Dutch East India Trading company brought the dog to Holland in the sixteenth century A.D. He was taken to Britain during the reign of King William III (seventeenth century). He is more massive and solid than most fellow toy dogs. Fawn coloured pugs were typical known in Europe until black Pugs were introduced from Asia in the 1860s. The Pug was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1885.

The Pug is square and cobby in shape. His head is large and round without indentation but with clearly defined wrinkles. The eyes are large, dark and bold. The nose is snubbed. The muzzle is short, blunt and square. The ears are either rose or, preferably, button and set high on the skull, folding over to the level of the eye. The chest is wide and the legs are strong, straight and of moderate length. The back is broad and the topline is straight. The tail is curled as tightly as possible over the hip. The coat is apricot, black or silver-fawn with a black mask on the face and black ears. Height of the Pug is between ten and eleven inches and weight is between fourteen and eighteen pounds.

The Pug has been referred to as "Multo in Parvo" meaning "a lot of dog in a small space". This is an even-tempered breed, exhibiting stability, playfulness, great charm, dignity, and an outgoing, loving disposition. Pugs are a vibrant breed that is extremely tough and individualistic. He knows what he wants and stands his ground to get it. Although strong willed and forceful, he is affectionate and rarely aggressive. He makes an amusing and rewarding companion for those who want a smaller dog that evidences the characteristics of a larger dog. He often communicates through grunts, snorts and snuffles.

References:

American Kennel Club Inc. The Complete Dog Book. 18th ed. New York: Howell, 1992.

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