TRAINING

You should never begin serious obedience training before your pug is seven or eight months old. While your Pug dog is still in his puppyhood, concentrate on winning his confidence so he will love and admire you. Basic training can be started When your Pug puppy is three to four months old. Your Pug puppy should be taught to walk nicely on a leash, sit and lie down on command, and come when he is called.

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FEEDING

Pugs love food. They can be coerced in to doing just about anything if the promise of food is involved. Unfortunately, Pugs also tend to have weight issues. They will eat as much as you give them so extreme care must be taken to ensure they do not become overweight.

The feeding chart below is a sample schedule of what the average Pug will need as they grow. You should consult your veterinarian regarding the exact amount that is right for your Pug.


Puppy (3 to 6 months)
3 times per day, amount 1/3 cup each time

Adolescent (6 months to 1 year)
2 times per day, amount 3/4 cup each time

Active Adult (1 to 8 years)
2 times per day, amount 1/2 cup each time

Senior (8 years+)
2 times per day, amount 1/3 cup each time

Pug - Dog Lover

HEALTH INFORMATION

Pugs are considered to be fairly healthy, there are some special things to consider when it comes to pug dog health. One of these is the wrinkly skin on the dog. Due to it’s nature, the folds of the skin are prone to infections so you should be sure to keep your dog groomed and bathed properly and consult your Veterinarian at the first sign of any infection. Take special care to clean in between the wrinkles to remove any dirt or debris that could cause bacteria build up.

The Pugs eyes can also be a health concern. Due to the shape of the eye and the position on the face, the Pugs eyes are not very well protected and this can lead to injury and complications. Check the eye for any ulcerations frequently and get your dog to the Vet right away if you see any problems in this area.

Pugs also have a tendency to become overweight which can adversely affect their health. The pug is a breed that will eat to excess so it is up to you to limit your pets food intake and keep him at a healthy weight.

Pugs are very sensitive to high heat and humidity, so you need to be sure to keep your dog out of any places where he might be subjected to high heat for any length of time. Don’t leave your dog outdoors in an area with no shade or locked in a car in summer time. If your Pug gets overheated he can have a hard time breathing.

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TEMPERAMENT

There are many great features that come with the pug. Pug temperament is no exception to this rule. For the most part, pugs are very well mannered and fun loving. The key to having a well mannered pug is to exercise good pug care and proper training. Without proper attention and devotion, your pug (just like any breed of dog) will be a hard pet to handle.

If you are looking for a breed that is “mellow” and lazy, the pug should not be your first choice! Pugs are pretty active as a whole and require lots of attention. Pugs can become very jealous and possessive of their owners as well. This though just goes to show the love and devotion that your pug will show you if you give her the proper attention.

Pugs are exceptional with children as well as other dogs. If you have small children or plan to have children and want a pet as well, pugs are perfect. It goes without saying though that your pug will be obedient only as much as you are willing to train her. Most pugs truly love playtime and will do anything to please their master. Pugs are also excellent with other dogs and love playtime with other pugs as well.

Pugs display a great sense of humor and tons of personality. Pugs have been known to be the “comedians of the dog world.” The funny pug appearance alone is enough to make you laugh. Most pugs will cock their heads to the side when you speak to them. It is as if the pug is trying to process what you are saying to them. If you have not seen a pug do this, it is pretty comical! Pugs are a great form of entertainment and will keep you amused for years.

One of the slightly negative aspects of pug temperament is that the breed is pretty stubborn. The pug has a mind of it's own and is very smart, thus stuck in her ways. They often act spoiled and show aggression when not given attention or are not played with enough. Pugs mostly prefer the company of their owners and will often not sleep unless they are pressed up against their owners.

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GROOMING

Pugs require a fair amount of grooming and general care. They have to be brushed frequently due to minimize shedding. Pugs have facial folds which need to be cleaned, every other day, every week or every month depending on the dog. Their nails grow fast, very fast, and need to be trimmed often. Pugs are also prone to having their anal sacs fill, and these sacs in turn, must be drained from time to time…not a pleasant, or easy task if you chose to do it yourself. If you won’t do it, then you’ll need to take your Pug to the vet to have it done, sometimes several times per year. If you’re looking for a low maintenance dog which requires minimal grooming, don’t get a Pug.

Pug - Dog Lover