Pug

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated August 17, 2009)

For a long time there has been considerable speculation about the origin of the Pug. At times the Pug has been called the "Dutch Dog". It is natural for many to assume that Holland was his first home. True, the dog was extremely popular in that country, but the preponderance of the evidence points to China as his birthplace. In fact, most of the Toy dogs with short noses and large heads and tails curled over their backs originated in that country.

Dutch traders did a lively business in China, and the breed was introduced into England from Holland. Yet most of the best English dogs of the late nineteenth century and American dogs of the early twentieth century traced back to a dog of pure Chinese breeding. While the Pug was popular in Holland, it is notable that little attention was paid to him by the painters of that nation, many of whom used dogs of various breeds in their best works.

The first black Pug to be exhibited in England was one belonging to Lady Brasey, who exhibited it at the Maidstone show in about 1866. It is said that the black Pug came from an infusion of blood from the Japanese Pug. This breed was white or black or white and black. Some black Pugs of today have a tendency to show a bit of white on the chest and feet.

The Pug is an affable little fellow, full of spunk and needing far less care than other members of the Toy group. The Pug is known for his even temper and outgoing disposition. He is loving, playful and highly adaptable. The Pug is essentially a house dog and needs the warmth and comfort of the interior. In the past fifty years he has gained back much of his lost popularity.

In general appearance the Pug is square and cobby. Common colors for the breed are fawn, black, apricot, silver and any combination thereof. The Pug generally weighs between fourteen and eighteen pounds.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

MORE FROM DORIS

Combat Fur Balls with Fish

Fur balls are a common malady with cats. They groom themselves and then swallow the fur which amasses into a ball that ...

Discover More

Irish Terrier

Known for his badger drawing abilities, the Irish Terrier also proved invaluable in both World Wars as a messenger and ...

Discover More

Installing a Hot Tub

With the right kind of hot tub around your home, you can feel like you are in heaven. The thing is that you first need to ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Yorkshire Terrier

Once known as the Scotch Terrier, the Yorkshire Terrier is big on personality. He is active, alert, and very energetic.

Discover More

Papillon

The Papillon is known for the butterfly-like appearance of his ears. He is a happy and friendly dog, making him a great ...

Discover More

Maltese

The Maltese is believed to have been bred primarily as a lap dog. His lively, playful and loving nature make him a ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 2 + 5?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)