Pugs Are Practically Perfect Companions!

According to the American Kennel Club, "The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dogs and has flourished since before 400 BC. Most researchers agree that the breed comes from Asia, due to its similarities to the Pekingese. China is the earliest known source for Pugs, where they were pets of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. The breed next appeared in Japan and Europe, becoming popular when Prince William II became the King of England. He owned Pugs and they became the fashionable breed for generations."

And the Pug's popularity is well-justified. Adapting easily to almost any living situation - city apartment, suburban yard, or country living, And while most Pugs excel at keeping their people company on the couch, I've also known several who were aces at performance competition, including Obedience and Rally.

While Pugs are shown in conformation in the "Toy Group," they are the largest dogs in the group (weighing in at 14 to 18 lbs.), and are sturdy little dogs and can be great family pets. The Pug Dog Club of America says: "A Pug's character is unique in that he is a clown at heart with a terrific sense of humor but at the same time he carries himself with great dignity. They are not too delicate for fun and games. A pug is anxious to please, anxious to learn and anxious to love. His biggest requirement is that you love him back."

Pugs are, generally speaking, a healthy breed, and can live well into their teens.

Like all short-faced dogs, Pugs can be sensitive to heat and the folds on their faces need to be kept clean to avoid infection and tear staining.

They're also "easy keepers" - meaning they love to eat! Pug owners must build resistance to those adorable, begging, faces in order to keep their Pugs trim and fit.

The biggest issue Pug owners may find is the fur. Pugs shed - a lot. It's important to brush Pugs regularly to minimize the dust-bunny population in the house.

While a Pug may not be your first choice for a jogging companion, they are sturdy little dogs who enjoy getting out and about.

We recommend harnesses rather than collars for Pugs, to keep pressure away from their throats and minimize any breathing or choking issues they may have. The Soft Harness from Puppia is a great choice - strong enough to control the dog without causing any problems. This vest-type harness is easy to use and adjusts around the dog's tummy.

• A pug has only won Best In Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show once in the contest’s 107-year history
• In Germany, pugs are called mops
• While they’re not big barkers, pugs have shown a propensity for singing and vocal tricks.
• A group of pugs is called a grumble.
• The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885
• The pug breed was imported into Europe from China in the 16th century by the Dutch East India Company
• In 2013 the Pug was the 31st most popular dog in the United States

I'm particularly susceptible to the charms of short-faced dogs, but Pugs seem to have an appeal that stretches beyond those of us who are naturally attracted to squishy-faced pups.

It may be because they are baby-sized, with big, round heads and big, round eyes - there have been studies showing that humans are naturally attracted to these characteristics that mimic our own offspring.

Or it could be because they are even-tempered companions, highly adaptable to whatever activity their owners embrace. I've never met a Pug with a temper, although I'm sure there are some around, it's not a breed trait.

Pug owners also seem to greet life with a sense of humor - it may go along with having the constant soundtrack of snorting in your life.