The first Pug sneezed on their owner way back during the Ming dynasty of China.
We don’t know for sure that he or she was a sneezer, but it’s a pretty good guess. We’re talking about Pugs, after all!
If you’ve never had the pleasure of making a Pug’s acquaintance, you might not know much about the breed. They make wonderfully loyal and affectionate pets, but they can have issues as well, so you should know what you’re getting into.
Let’s talk about Pug care, shall we?
Are Pugs High Maintenance?
This is a trickier question than it might seem. Since Pugs have both high and low maintenance qualities, the answer depends on which specific quality that you’re considering.
For example, if you’re wondering whether Pugs are easy to take care of, the answer is probably no. They require a lot of attention, and they can’t be left alone for long periods of time for both practical and emotional reasons. They’re vulnerable to many inherited health conditions. They shed a lot.
In terms of everyday care, the Pug can be a pretty high-maintenance dog.
On the other hand, Pugs make great pets. They’re fun, curious, playful and family-friendly dogs, so they’re suitable for kids and adults alike. They’re extremely loyal. They’re great cuddlers. Training tends to be pretty easy, too, since they have such agreeable and eager-to-please personalities.
In these respects, Pugs can be rather low-key pets. They aren’t finicky show dogs that need things to be “just so.” They’re snuffly little teddy bears that just want to love you.
Can Pugs Be Left Alone?
Pugs shouldn’t be left alone for more than a few hours. There are several reasons for this:
- Bladder control. Pugs are tiny dogs that usually max out at 10 – 14 inches. Their bladders are the size of a peanut, so they’ll need to be let into the backyard frequently.
- Exercise. Pugs aren’t that active as a breed. In fact, they spend most of their days sleeping. However, they can be quite mischievous when they’re awake, so they’ll need someone to direct that energy into harmless play rather than gnawing on furniture.
- Neediness. Pugs are notoriously clingy. They’re sometimes called “shadows” or “space invaders” because of their constant need for affection and attention. They’ll miss you terribly if you work long hours!
Do Pugs Make Good Pets?
One look into that sweet and scrunchy face and you’ll realize that your new Pug is the best dog ever.
If you need a little more convincing, however, rest assured that Pugs make fantastic pets.
For starters, Pugs are cuddle bugs to the highest degree, so if you enjoy the weight of a sweet, snuggly pooch on your lap while you watch a movie or work at your desk, this is the breed for you.
Pugs are also known for their even-tempered personalities. They can be stubborn, but they’re generally considered smart, friendly, affectionate and sociable dogs. They’re quite good with kids.
Last but not least, Pugs are easily trained. They’ll do just about anything for a treat, so whether you’re teaching them to catch a ball or sit still for the vet, they’ll master whatever they need to master to get that treat.
Do Pugs Get Attached to One Person?
We’ve all been there: that feeling of smug satisfaction when a dog walks into a crowded room and makes a beeline for you. I am the chosen one, you might think. I have been deemed worthy.
You’ll get that feeling all of the time when a Pug chooses you as their favorite. You see, it’s quite common for Pugs to attach themselves to a single person. They’ll love everyone in the family, but they’ll have a special bond with that one lucky soul.
Interestingly, a Pug’s favorite person isn’t always their primary caregiver. You might be the one to feed them and walk them, but they might be a little traitor that loves someone else more.
So how can you encourage your pooch to bond with you? Here are a few ideas:
- Start early. The critical bonding period for Pugs is when they’re less than six months old. If you’re adopting an older dog, it’s that six-month period when you first bring them home.
- Spend a lot of time with them. As previously mentioned, this doesn’t always work, but it certainly doesn’t hurt. Feed them. Bathe them. Play with them. Let them seek tactile affection from you.
- Find a Pug that matches your energy and personality. Birds of a feather flock together, so if you want to maximize the impact of your Pug care, adopt one that fits into your existing home and lifestyle.
What Problems Do Pugs Have?
There’s a double-edged sword when it comes to the cuteness of Pugs. Many of their most adorable features are also the cause of genetic and hereditary health problems.
For example, their squashed faces make them predisposed to breathing problems. Their short snouts and prominent wrinkles can result in infections, inflammations, eye prolapses, and skin fold dermatitis.
Pugs are also quite susceptible to bone problems like hip dysplasia. Another thing to watch out for is Pug dog encephalitis (PDE), a fatal condition.
To ensure that your pug is kept in the best possible health, consider buying pet insurance. Providers like Pets Best will cover everything from exam costs to medications and surgeries, so they can give you peace of mind about keeping your dog safe.
A pug can be the truest and most loyal companion that you’ll ever have, so if you’ve just welcomed one into your home, congratulations! You’re about to enter an amazing world filled with snorts, sneezes, snuggles and silliness, and once you’ve bonded with your pup, you won’t want it any other way.