Pugs date back to the days of ancient China. Originally bred as companions for kings, queens, scholars, monks and other important folks, they’ve become one of the most common and well-loved breeds of the world today.
Are you thinking of raising a Pug? Are you wondering if it’s the right decision for you and your family? Let’s take a look at these adorable little goobers and see.
Is it easy raising a Pug?
Pugs aren’t usually considered a “difficult” breed. They’re happy and friendly, and they get along with kids, cats, and other dogs just fine. They make great family pets, and they can be trained in everything from obedience to agility.
That said, there are some things that you should know about Pugs before you adopt. By doing your homework today, you can be a smart, well-prepared pet owner for the future.
Temperament
Pugs are sweet, sociable dogs that are full of love and extremely affectionate. The downside of this devotion is that Pugs can be quite needy. Since they crave human companionship, they don’t like to be left alone, and they might develop separation anxiety if you work long hours.
Otherwise, you should find Pugs to be very pleasant pets. You can’t ask for a more loyal buddy.
Health
Pugs can be prone to health problems. Here are a few issues that are common to the breed:
- Obesity
- Hip dysplasia
- Respiratory disorders
- Eye problems
- Pug dog encephalitis (PDE)
This list isn’t meant to scare you. It’s entirely possible that you’ll adopt a happy, healthy Pug without any problems whatsoever! However, you should know the risks going in, and you should take preliminary precautions just in case your pup does develop a hereditary condition.
Behavior
Pugs are sweet creatures who would love to spend every moment of the day with you. Behavioral issues usually stem from the fact that they can’t. When you go to work, for example, they might engage in destructive biting and chewing around the house. When they’re feeling insecure, they might vocalize a lot to get your attention.
A happy Pug, on the other hand, can be curious, clever, playful, and hilarious. There’s a reason why so many Pugs are social media stars. They’re such goofy little critters that they’re just a hoot to be around!
Training your Pug will depend on their personality. Some are eager to please, so they’ll zoom through an obstacle course just to get praise. Other Pugs might be more stubborn, so you’ll need to figure out what words or treats can motivate them. Since they’re smart, they might wind up training you just as much as the other way around.
Enrolling in a training course is a great way to get on top of Pug behavior at a young age. With Pupford Academy, for example, you’ll have access to everything you need to raise the happy and well-behaved pup of your dreams.
How do I raise my Pug puppy?
Raising a puppy can be a roller coaster, especially when that puppy is a Pug. Let’s break down several key areas of responsibility and how you might approach them as a pet owner.
Food
Diet can play a critical role in the health of your Pug. Fresh, natural foods can prevent health issues like obesity, and certain ingredients have been known to help the genetic conditions that they develop.
If you need a little help with serving tasty, nutritious food to your Pug, consider a service like Pet Plate. They’ll deliver healthy, vet-approved meals right to your door, so they can be a lifesaver for busy pet owners.
Toys
Toys are a must for young, active Pugs, especially if you’re trying to keep them from getting bored and destructive while you’re out of the house. Here are a few ideas for good Pug toys:
- Plushies
- Ropes
- Chew toys
- Kongs filled with healthy treats
- Squeaky toys
You might also want to consider things like teething rings for very young pups. Think of them as furry little toddlers!
Grooming
Pugs are prone to shedding. Unlike some breeds that only blow their coats during specific seasons, Pugs shed year round, and they can also be born with double coats that result in even more fluff on the couch.
The good news is that there are many ways to keep a Pug’s shedding under control. You can brush them, for example, with special grooming tools. You can bathe them with particular shampoos and oils. Some of these products smell quite nice, so you’ll have a soft, clean, and snuggly pup that you’ll want to sniff all day long!
Insurance
Insurance is essential for Pug owners. Since the breed is predisposed to a variety of health issues, you never know when you might need a trip to the vet.
The best insurance providers will cover accidents, injuries, illnesses, and surgeries. They’ll be there for you if your Pug develops a chronic condition, and they won’t charge you extra if a problem turns out to be hereditary.
One popular name in pet insurance is Pets Best Insurance. They offer comprehensive coverage for all of life’s twists and turns, and they allow you to choose your own deductibles and reimbursement rates, so you can customize your insurance plan depending on your own unique needs.
Wrapping up
These are the most important things to consider about raising a Pug. It can be a highly rewarding experience, and you can enjoy love, loyalty and companionship just like the ancient rulers of Chinese dynasties. Just be sure that you know what you’re getting into before you adopt!