Pug

General Information - Pug

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History

The word Pug is derived either from the Latin Pugnus, meaning fist, as the head may have resembled a clenched fist, or from the marmoset Pug monkeys that were popular pets in the 18th century and that the Pug dogs somewhat resemble. Whatever the name, one thing is true: The Pug’s official motto 'multum in parvo' (a lot in a little) fits it exactly. The Pug is somewhat of an exception in the toy group because it is perhaps the only breed to be descended from mastiff forebears. Although its exact ancestry has been lost in antiquity, the Pug retains many mastiff characteristics. This is an ancient breed, one of several miniaturized in Asia, where it was a favourite pet of Buddhist monasteries in Tibet many centuries ago. In China, the facial wrinkles were an essential breed feature, most notably the 'prince mark', or vertical wrinkle on the forehead, which bore a resemblance to the Chinese character for 'prince'. Pugs probably came to Holland by way of the Dutch East India Trading Company. They became quite popular and were recognised as the official dog of the House of Orange after one saved the life of Prince William by sounding an alarm at the approach of Spanish soldiers in 1572. By 1790, the Pug could be found in France; Napoleon’s wife Josephine used her Pug to carry messages to Napoleon when she was imprisoned. Pugs were first brought to England during Victorian times and became incredibly popular with the wealthy, displacing the King Charles Spaniel as the favoured royal breed. Pugs of Victorian England usually had cropped ears, further accentuating their wrinkled faces.

Temperament

Playful and happy, dignified and funny, Pugs do well with visitors, children and other pets. Although sometimes stubborn, the Pug is typically pleasant and anxious to please. It loves to show-off.

Upkeep

The Pug needs daily exercise, either in the form of a lively game or a moderate walk on leash. It does not do well in heat and humidity and should not be kept outdoors. It needs minimal coat care but daily cleaning of facial wrinkles. Its smooth coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hairs; however, the wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections. The Pug wheezes and snores.

Pug

A breed standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics, temperament, and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function with soundness essential. Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions and exaggerations, as well as being mindful of features which could be detrimental in any way to the health, welfare or soundness of this breed.

Breed Standard - Pug

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog and on the dog’s ability to perform its traditional work.