The Pug is charming, mischievous and loving and has been a favorite of royalty for centuries. They were a companion of Chinese emperors as well as a mascot to Holland’s royal House of Orange.
This high-class history means that Pugs can be well-trained but sometimes it can take a bit of work. Here are a few tips to help with the training of your new best friend.
Potty Training Tips For Your Pug
When it comes to potty training your Pug, the good news is that Pugs are very intelligent dogs and want to please their owners. They can be easily trained by using the right methods, lots of love and patience.
One very effective training method is crate training. The crate needs to be the right size for your Pug to stand up in, turn around, and lie down. Placing toys inside the crate or feeding your pup in the crate will show them they are not being punished.
When you notice your pup whining and circling around, most likely they need to go to the potty. Take your Pug to the place you want them to go potty. Praising and giving them treats when they go in the right spot will reinforce that they have been a good pup. If they are about to go in an inappropriate place, use a firm but calm “No” and lead them to the acceptable area.
If you are not comfortable with the crate method of training, you can use the scheduling method. Your Pug needs to be taught where and when they can go potty. Using a set schedule will help with potty training your pup.
Your first trip outside should be when your Pug wakes up in the morning. Follow this up with a trip outside 15 to 20 minutes after they eat and another trip outside after your Pug awakes from a nap. And if your pup is sniffing different areas of the house, they are likely looking for a spot to go potty. Take them outside immediately in this situation.
No matter which method you use, it is important to guide your Pug to the same potty area each time you take them out. Eventually, they will seek out this spot on their own.
Socializing Tips For Your Pug
For a happy and friendly lifestyle, you should start socializing your Pug as soon as you bring them home.
Meeting your family will be your pup’s first step to socialization. They will begin to feel at home when you allow them to sniff the surroundings and get used to their new home.
It is natural to be excited when you show off your new pup, but try to stay calm when introducing them to friends that visit so that they can mimic your behavior. Children and puppies are a natural mix and you should encourage your Pug to play with children as much as possible. However, young children should be supervised while playing with your pup just in case.
A neighborhood walk or a doggie play date with a friend’s dog will get your new best friend familiar with other dogs. Dog Parks are also a great place for your Pug to socialize with other animals and make friends.
Over time you will need to travel with your Pug to the vet’s office or just for a fun trip. A dog car seat keeps your dog safe inside your car and is high enough that they can look out the window. If your dog seems to be anxious about being in the car, using a crate will help them feel safe and secure.
Apartment dwellers may need to walk their Pug on noisy city streets. Therefore getting your young pup use to loud traffic noise is important and they should be comfortable walking by your side while on a leash.
The Pug’s personality makes them a natural for socialization but they still need some training in this area. Keep introducing them to new situations, people and other animals and you will have a happy, confident pup.
Additional Training Advice for Pugs
Your Pug is exceptionally smart and wants to please you. But remember they are very sensitive and yelling will only produce anxiety in your new friend. Love and patience is the best approach to training and will bring many years of joy to both of you.
