The Pug is best suited for beginners. It needs little grooming and is very trainable. This dog breed is also an optimal family dog, which also gets along very well in small flats. The Pug is very open-minded towards children and a true buddy for life for every owner.
Typical breed characteristics of the Pug
- Character: affectionate, obedient, friendly
- Size: 25 to 30 cm
- Weight: 6 to 8 kg
- Colours: Fawn, black and silver
- Life expectancy: 11 to 15 years
The pug, like other small dogs, used to be kept by kings in ancient China, where they had a very luxurious life. Even a light guard could boast a Pug at that time.
Later the Pug came to Europe via Holland and conquered the whole continent with his very lovable manner.
The Pug is a very compact dog and can weigh up to 8 kilograms and have a height of 30 centimetres. Its coat colours are fawn, black or silver.
Due to its very sociable nature and its great love for its owner, it is one of the most popular dog breeds of all.
Typical diseases of this breed are skin problems, patella luxation, herniated discs and especially breathing problems due to heat and exertion.
Care and training
The Pug is a very easy to care for and robust dog, as long as it has been bred healthily.
It should be fed a very healthy diet, as it often struggles with overweight. However, the Pug does not make great demands on his food and is very frugal.
However, his range of movement is somewhat limited, as he can get respiratory problems very quickly. Nevertheless, the Pug follows you wherever you go and is a lovely companion.
Due to its rather short coat, the Pug does not need much grooming. Nevertheless, it is advisable to keep the wrinkles on the head and face clean and dry.
Who is the Pug suitable for?
The Pug is a true family dog and adapts to any family situation. However, his owner should not expect too much athletic excellence from a Pug. He prefers to be a cosy armchair dog who likes to sit next to you on the couch in the evening and be cuddled.
The Pug can be taken anywhere and needs very little space. However, it should be handled very carefully and strictly, as many Pugs have a stubborn head.
Also, if the Pug is to spend the night with you in your bedroom, be aware that he snores loudly and could disturb your sleep considerably.
The Pug, despite his robust and bullet-shaped appearance, likes to get plenty of exercise and loves to go for a little walk in the park with his master.
He is very trusting and you can gain his trust very quickly, which also makes him very popular with children.
How long can a Pug stay alone?
The Pug is a curious little dog with a lively and friendly nature. He is loyal and loves the attention of his owners.
Nevertheless, the pug can also spend some time alone. The dog does not always need to have his humans around him. If you train him lovingly, you can get the animal used to spending some time alone in his familiar surroundings.
There are many moments when the pug needs to stay at home:
- at parties
- work
- longer shopping trips
- and many unforeseen events
An adult dog can spend up to 6 hours alone at home. However, this should not be the rule, as the Pug in particular is a dog that seeks closeness to its owners and loves the company of people.
The more time the animal can spend with people who love him, the better.
What you need to keep in mind when your pug is left alone for a long period of time
If your dog has learned to stay alone, you will certainly worry less about your beloved four-legged friend. But even an adult and well-trained dog needs a lot during your absence.
- Exercise
- Food and water
- Toys
If the dog is left alone at home for several hours, he should have access to the outside area so that he can relieve himself outside.
Of course, your pug should have plenty of food and water while you are away. Just enough to give the next meal a long time apart.
The pug also needs food regularly, not as much as large dogs, but you can still distribute the amount evenly.
It is useful to have a selection of toys that the dog only ever gets when he is alone at home. If the toy is not available all the time, it will remain interesting and can keep the dog occupied while you are away.
You can reduce this small selection of distractions over time. But in the beginning, all of this is good to keep your dog occupied with other things.
What breeds of dogs make good family pets?
With so many dog breeds, there are some dogs that would make a good family dog.
Not all of them inherently have these qualities, but you might like one that makes you say, “Yes, I could see us having this one!”.
Small dog breeds: Beagle
Beagles are extremely fond of children, friendly, even-tempered and also have a strong sense of self-confidence. Weighing between 10 and 18 kg, they belong to the small dog breeds. They appear bright, playful, agile and are particularly intelligent. Their short coat does not require any special care.
Small dog breeds: Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, which originates from Mexico, fits in any waistcoat pocket at 1.5 to 3 kg. With its lively nature, it appears extremely self-confident, spirited, courageous and curious. Chihuahuas are also known for their affection. This dog breed is a real couch snuggler with both long and short fur.
Small dog breeds: Maltese
The small Maltese weighs 3 to 4 kg. This makes it one of the mini dog breeds and makes it particularly suitable for keeping in smaller living areas. The Maltese city dog is intelligent, alert and spirited. He is also lively, eager to learn and playful. In conclusion, his affectionate nature makes him ideally suited as a family dog. With its medium length coat, it has somewhat higher grooming needs. Regular grooming may be necessary.
For more information on the Maltese, see our breed comparison of Maltese and Havanese.
Medium-sized dog breeds: Dalmatian
101 Dalmatians – who doesn’t know the film? Children love the spotted four-legged friends. And rightly so! At 24 to 32 kg, they belong to the medium-sized dog breeds. They are extremely spirited, which is why they are less suitable for small children, but very suitable for older ones. They are also cuddly, attentive, loyal and agile. Their sensitive nature makes them a true comforter of souls. They are also known for their affection and intelligence. Due to their short coat length, no special grooming is required.
Medium-sized dog breeds: Labrador Retriever
Things get a little bigger with a 25 to 36 kg Labrador. This people-oriented four-legged friend delights with its playful character, good-naturedness and bright nature. Labradors are particularly loyal and reliable. They have a short coat that requires little time to groom.
The following breeds are also suitable:
- Doberman
- Hovawart
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Poodle
- Australian Shepherd
- Pug
When choosing a dog breed, bear in mind that every dog has its own character and that there are also dogs that belong to a suitable dog breed but are still not suitable for the job of a family dog.
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