Dog breed · Toy
Pug
An affectionate, comedic companion with a long history — and with flat-faced health needs owners must take seriously.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Toy
- Origin
- China
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 6–8 kg (14–18 lb)
- Height
- 25–33 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Short, fine double coat
- Temperament
- CharmingEven-temperedSociableGreedy
History
Bred as a companion for Chinese emperors, brought to Europe by Dutch traders in the sixteenth century.
Appearance
Compact and rounded with a deeply wrinkled face and curled tail, in fawn or black.
Exercise and activity
Two short walks in cool conditions; watch for noisy or laboured breathing.
Care and grooming
Clean and dry facial wrinkles, keep strictly lean and never leave in warm cars or rooms.
Health considerations
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
- Pug dog encephalitis
- Eye ulcers and proptosis
- Hemivertebrae
- Obesity
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Pug
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Two short walks in cool conditions; watch for noisy or laboured breathing. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Brachycephalic airway syndrome, Pug dog encephalitis, Eye ulcers and proptosis, Hemivertebrae, Obesity), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice