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The Pug is an intelligent dog with a compact build
that may be an excellent addition to the family
home. The stubbornness that is part of this breed’s
makeup can be frustrating for some owners but
overall the Pug is a playful and enjoyable dog. This
breed wants attention and wants to be involved in
family activities. If you decide the Pug is for you,
we recommend visiting at least three breeders so you
have a chance to compare facilities and the way the
breeder cares for the dogs.
With puppies, we strongly recommend you never buy
one younger than 10 weeks of age. A big part of
giving a puppy a good start is the time spent with
the breeder. Puppies need about 8 to 10 weeks of
socialization and care so that they are ready to
live with people and other dogs comfortably. A new
puppy takes a great deal of time and patience. You
will be spending time teaching the dog the areas
that are off limits in the home. Getting a puppy to
the point that it will not be a headache and will be
a good companion takes time.
One of the first decisions you should make when
buying a Pug is whether to purchase a puppy or an
adult. If you choose to get a grown dog from a
rescue group, you should always ask many questions
about the dog’s health and background. For an adult,
especially one coming out of a rescue organization,
plan on being patient to break old habits or teach
the dog that you are not going to hurt it. The dog
must know that you intend to simply, give it a good,
loving home. Knowing about the health and family
history of your pet can be a key in preventing
future problems. There are certainly some excellent
older dogs available from these rescue sources and
they do need good homes. However, keep in mind that
this can bring with it a different set of problems
than buying a puppy from a top breeder.
Some people have a strong preference for color with
their dog, though many new owners think this is of
secondary importance. You may be able to find a Pug
that is just right for you in three distinct colors:
silver, apricot-fawn, or black. For those Pugs with
the silver and apricot-fawn coat, there should be a
definite contrast between the coat color and the
darker face. The Pug’s coat is short and close, so
it will not require a lot of grooming. A regular
brushing and some attention to the claws/toenails
are always recommended.
As you talk with your breeder, ask about both
parents of the litter you are looking at. Make sure
the breeder is able to clear up any doubts you may
have about health problems and that the breeder
gives you documentation that shows the puppy to be
free of serious health problems. It may be difficult
to think about losing a new pet, but you should be
sure to have some guarantees from the breeder, in
writing. Make sure that, if the dog dies in a
certain amount of time, you get a replacement or
have your money returned. It would be best if you
also have some guarantee if a serious illness or
health problem occurs. Asking many questions and
getting plenty of information is the best way to
head off serious problems in the future.
Finally, you need to determine if American Kennel
Club (AKC) registration and/or pedigree is
important. If you plan to breed or show your new
dog, then these certifications would be invaluable.
Keep in mind that there can be some special problems
with breeding Pugs, because Cesarean Section is
sometimes necessary to deliver litters. It is also
important that you also check the puppy’s bloodline,
looking for Grand National Champions and tight
ancestry. Again, a reputable breeder would be able
to provide you with this information.
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