Breed Profile
Around since 400 B.C., Pugs are historically beloved dogs. Emperors, monks, and royalty alike couldn’t resist the charm of these friendly, flat-faced companions. A little treat is all it takes to train these smart pups. Playful, affectionate, and happy-go-lucky, they are one of the most easygoing family dogs you can find. They make a great match for most people and lifestyles!
Behavior
Pugs may love people more than people love them, and that’s saying a lot! These small dogs have big personalities and are very social – even with those they don’t know. In addition to their snorting and snoring, their goofy, fun-loving attitude is sure to bring lots of laughs to your household. And they will surely gobble up all that attention. They will also gobble as much food as they can. While treats come in handy when training, these food-driven dogs don’t know when they’re full. If their bowl is full, they will empty it, so be careful with measurements and consistent feeding times to ensure your pooch won’t overeat.
Coat
Pugs are known for their irresistible smushed faces and large expressive eyes. Their coat comes in a variety of colors but should all feature a dark muzzle. Pugs do shed, but regular brushing and bathing can help. Use a firm bristle brush to remove dead hairs. Bath time should be every 3-4 weeks. And you know all those cute wrinkles? Their skin folds can house bacteria and should be cleaned every few days. Be sure to also keep an eye on their nails, as they don’t always file them down on their own.
Lifestyle
Pugs are a bunch of lovers. They love their family, children, guests, new dogs, and other pets. They are pretty laid back and happy in most settings. They don’t require much space to be content, but they do prefer moderate temperatures. Because of their short snouts, extreme heat or cold can hinder their breathing. Pugs may be small but can stand up to the innocent roughhousing of children, and they definitely won’t mind all the attention!
Activity
Pugs are lively dogs but do not require much exercise. They will enjoy a daily walk, which can also have the added benefit of naturally filing down their nails. Pugs are dog-park friendly and are sure to have a big smile on their faces while playing with others!
Characteristics
Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watch Ability
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness
Pug Buyer's Guide
Pugs are one the most popular dogs of all time. Around since 400 B.C., these palace pups were bred as lapdogs for Chinese emperors, Buddhist monks, and European royalty. Pugs are fun-loving, face-licking, short-snouted companions who are extremely affectionate and like to curl up in a comfortable leg crevice. These goofy dogs snore when in a deep slumber but will wake and come running at the slightest creak from the refrigerator. With a treat in your hand, they are quick learners and suddenly remember every trick in the book. Pugs make a great match for families, homebodies, and busy people. So, basically everyone!
Breed information reviewed by the Puppies.com editorial team. Helping families find their perfect puppy since 2003.
Pug Quick Facts
325
Available Now
From $100
Starting Price
14–18 lbs
Adult Weight
10–13"
Adult Height
Frequently Asked Questions About Pugs
What's it like owning a Pug?
Around since 400 B.C., Pugs are historically beloved dogs. Emperors, monks, and royalty alike couldn’t resist the charm of these friendly, flat-faced companions. A little treat is all it takes to train these smart pups. Playful, affectionate, and happy-go-lucky, they are one of the most easygoing family dogs you can find. They make a great match for most people and lifestyles! Full-grown, they typically weigh 14-18 pounds and stand 10-13 inches tall.
Do Pugs get along with kids?
Pugs are generally excellent with children of all ages. They love their family, children, guests, new dogs, and other pets. Pugs may be small but can stand up to the innocent roughhousing of children, and they definitely won’t mind all the attention! They're relatively quiet and don't bark much.
Are Pugs couch potatoes or do they need a lot of exercise?
Pugs are lively dogs but do not require much exercise. They will enjoy a daily walk, which can also have the added benefit of naturally filing down their nails. Pugs are dog-park friendly and are sure to have a big smile on their faces while playing with others! Overall, their exercise needs are low.
Do Pugs need professional grooming?
Pugs are known for their irresistible smushed faces and large expressive eyes. Their coat comes in a variety of colors but should all feature a dark muzzle. Pugs do shed, but regular brushing and bathing can help. Grooming-wise, this breed is low-maintenance.
What kind of home is best for a Pug?
Pugs are best suited for apartments and smaller homes. They don’t require much space to be content, but they do prefer moderate temperatures. They are fairly easy to train.
