Fun Pug Facts For Kids

The pug breed is easily one of the most popular breeds in the world. This is primarily because of their tiny size which makes them convenient to maintain and keep in an urban setting where there is a lack of free space. Moreover, pugs are a toy breed. These dog breeds just need love and attention from their family. Pugs aren’t famed for their athletic or physical abilities. In fact, about 30 minutes of exercise a day is usually enough to tire them out. Pug mix dog breeds are an extremely intuitive breed of dogs that require very little maintenance, owing to their small physique and low exercise requirements. Pugs have been extremely popular for many years, and even emperors of China kept pugs as pet animals. This breed is often described by the Latin phrase 'multum in parvo' which means 'a lot of dog in a small space'.

In case of roused interest, read on to learn some amazing facts about these members of the canidae family. After reading about this ancient breed, you may also look at pocket pitbull facts and lab chow mix facts. 
 

What type of animal is a pug?

Pugs are a dog breed that belong to the biological family of canidae, and are scientifically referred to as Canis lupus familiaris. They are essentially a toy breed of dog meant for companionship and love, and they are not particularly made for intense physical activity or security. These dogs simply need love from their families and very little exercise in a day, especially when compared to larger breeds. These sturdy and compact canines are lap dogs with an excellent sense of humor.

What class of animal does a pug belong to?

Chinese pugs, being a dog, belong to the class of mammalia because of their ability to give birth to their young and provide nourishment to them through mammary glands. These dogs, belonging to the family canidae, are known to have an ardent fan following amongst the royal families of Europe. In fact, pugs were allocated the prestigious recognition as the official dog of the House of Orange.

How many pugs are there in the world?

There is no accurate number allotted to the total population of pugs in the world. However, this species of mammal stands far from Extinction. The total population of pugs may differ, and is largely dependent on factors such as their habitat, environment, climatic conditions, nutrition, and health. These members of canidae call for proper care, attention, and training in order to keep them healthy and fit.

Where does a pug live?

Chinese pugs, being a toy dog breed, live in houses, or sometimes farms, as a pet animal. Pug breeds are preferable as pets for people who, besides admiring dogs in general, are particular enthusiasts of lap or toy dogs. Given their small size, pugs are a breed of canine that don't require a lot of space. These dogs can adjust well to small spaces too. However, pug dogs could use some areas to play in and have fun. As dogs of this breed are friendly and playful in nature, it is recommended to live near spaces like a park, or have a home with a backyard to keep these companion dogs active and allow them regular exercise. This will help in managing their weight and control their temperament as well.

What is a pug's habitat?

The roots of Chinese pugs can be traced back to the dynasties that originated in China. Known to have ancestral links with the Tibetan mastiff, these groups of canines were prized possessions of royalty. However, the nobility of pugs wasn't just limited to China. During the 15th and 16th centuries, these members of the Canidae family migrated to the terrains of Europe with Dutch traders. Immediately after invading the topography of Europe, pugs became an instant hit with the royal inhabitants. Pugs, even in the modern world, have a massive fan following. A pugs habitat is essentially a humans habitat. Dogs of this breed are the happiest and healthiest in moderate weather conditions. Pugs could also live well in cities, and congested living quarters as as well on farms with open grounds.

Who do pugs live with?

Pugs live with people as dogs of this breed are kept as companion pets. They are not a solitary group of canines and genuinely appreciate and enjoy having company. Pugs have a friendly personality and love to live their life span to the fullest. This breed is good with children and old people since they are sensitive and intuitive dogs. Pug dog breeds are even overtly cordial with strangers. The temperament of a pug is very warm and loving. This breed can live as a single pet, or with other pets that their families may have.

How long does a pug live?

If the family can maintain the pugs health, and ensure optimal conditions for their health, pugs can have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. A pugs life span can vary depending on factors such as climate conditions, surroundings, changes in the environment, exposure to diseases, and nutrition. When suffering from any kind of health disorder, the life span of these canines is affected, leading to shorter life. In order to prevent any health issues and threats to their life, it is important to keep your canine in their proper surroundings and conditions. Regular visits to the vet are also important to improve their life span as well as quality of life. Pugs are prone to conditions like weight gain and breathing problems.

How do they reproduce?

Pugs, much like other breeds of dogs, reproduce when the male and female members of the species come of age. The heat period for most female pugs is only around two times a year, or on a half-yearly basis. These periods of heat generally last for three to four weeks at a time. It is during these heat periods that male pugs will attempt to initiate procreation. During the heat cycle, swelling in the vulva and blood discharge can be noted in females. This phase is followed by the female becoming receptive to the male which will last for around three to 11 days. Ideally, when female pugs are ready to allow sexual intercourse, the male dog will initiate it and the female will willingly participate. In the case of mutual mating decisions, the reproductive cycle will begin, leading to fertilization. However, for fertilization to take place, male dogs tend to mount the female from the rear side. After a firm connection, they stay in this position for five to 30 minutes before disengaging. The gestation period can range between 58 and 68 days, and after this the female gives birth to an average litter size of about four to five pug puppies.

What is their conservation status?

Pugs have the conservation status of Least Concern, since they are one of the most popular breeds in the whole world. Their high demand in the pet dog market ensures that their numbers do not dwindle, and breeders cater to these demands by ensuring appropriate and healthy breeding practices. The population of these canines keeps increasing as female pugs give birth to a litter of new puppies. In fact, it can be safely said that the population of pugs is quite steady and rapidly growing.

What do pugs look like?

Pugs are small dogs by nature. Pug breeds have a short stature which means they can easily fit on an owners lap. Pugs are one of the most popular breeds because of their extremely cute facial wrinkles. Their faces are generally black against their golden-white fur coat, with their eyes popping out and a nose pushed deep into their face. Unlike other dogs, pugs don’t have long snouts. It is almost as if their snout was squeezed into their head. Pugs ears are in tune with the color of their face, and are smooth and drooping. The lower jaw of a purebred pug normally extends beyond the upper jawline. The rest of the pugs body is generally sturdy with strong limbs and covered with a short fur coat. Some pugs may have a double coat of fur, however this is unlikely.

How cute are they?

On a scale of one to ten, with one being the lowest level of cuteness and ten being the highest level, pugs rank at about eight. This is because of their endearing face and expressive eyes coupled with their adorable style of walking, which usually involves a little body roll to each side with every step they take. Moreover, pugs are extremely compassionate and loving dogs who have the ability to sense their families emotions and can behave in a way that soothes them.

How do they communicate?

Like all other dogs, the pug dog breed communicates by using body language, tail movements, and barks or whines. Pugs will, very often, widen their eyes and purposefully look cute so as to attract their owners attention. Happiness is communicated by using tail wagging movements. When pugs wag their tail fast, it usually means they are excited and in a playful mood. Slow wags often indicate that pugs are expecting some movement or engagement from their surroundings. When a pug lies down on their back, it is a call for their owners to show their affection by scratching the dogs belly. Other forms of communication, such as barks, are used by these dogs when pugs feel aggressive about something. Whines are reserved for times when a pug feels distressed. This distress could be caused by external factors such as an uncomfortable presence or an unfamiliar location, or internal factors such as bodily discomfort. Pugs, like other breeds of dogs, also have a tendency to bare their teeth when they feel aggressive. Some lesser-known communication styles involve the licking of their own face when they are mentally or emotionally distressed and uncomfortable with something they need to do. Pugs also raise their paws at their family to show that they are ready to play or that they feel hungry.

How big is a pug?

Pug breeds are, by nature, small dogs that were bred to be kept as a lap dog or a toy dog breed. Therefore, in comparison with a labrador retriever, pugs would be about one-fifth of their overall size. The height of a male pug is 10-15 in (25-38 cm) and the height of a female pug is in the range of 9-12 in (22-30 cm).

How fast can a pug run?

Pug dog breeds are not known for their athletic or physical capabilities, and any person who adopts a pug must know that they are only a toy breed and do not take to physical labor very well. In fact, a pugs average running speed is only about 3-5 mph (4-8 kmph). Regular training and exercise can be useful in improving their speed as well as their life span.

How much does a pug weigh?

Pugs are a group of toy or lap canines, categorized under the small-sized dog group. Adorned with small yet sturdy and compact bodies with large round heads, they are known to possess thick and square dimensions. These canines, even with their robust bodies and jaunty gaits, do not weigh a lot. The weight of a male pug is between 14-18 lb (6.3-8 kg) and females weigh between 12-16 lb (5-7.2 kg). Pugs are prone to being overweight, so their diet must be paid attention to.

What are the male and female names of the species?

Collectively, any dog that matches the characteristics of a pug is referred to as a pug. However, as pugs are the members of the canidae family, they are basically a kennel of dogs. Therefore male members of the species are referred to as dogs while female pugs are referred to as bitches.

What would you call a baby pug?

The offspring of pugs are referred to as puppies. On average, the observed litter size of pugs range between one to 12 puppies. The babies of these canines, with their beautiful and soulful eyes, are adorable sights to behold. In order to raise healthy dogs, these puppies should be introduced to a nutritious diet that consists of the correct amount of proteins and fibers. The puppies of pugs should be looked after and taken care of properly. While raising these dogs, it is necessary to remember that a healthy childhood is a solid foundation for a healthy future.

What do they eat?

Pugs are omnivores. This means they can eat meat, bones, and some types of grains. Pugs also eat vegetables, fruits, nuts and other sources of nutrition. Since pugs are descendants of wolves that have been domesticated over generations, their diet consists of food that their biological ancestors eat, and the food that their human families eat. Food items that are vegetarian and healthy for pugs include baby carrots, french beans, cooked potatoes, oatmeal, and all kinds of meat.

Are they slobbery?

Owing to their shortened upper jaw length and squished face, pugs do tend to slobber. Their loose lips droop towards the sides of their faces, and are a contributing factor in their drooling tendencies. In general, when pugs experience heat and tiredness, these are the times when their drooling will be at the peak levels. Pugs are a category of dogs that are rated moderate in the drooling department.

Would they make a good pet?

Pugs were bred to be a toy dog breed that offer companionship and support to their human owners. They are small dogs, and hence very comfortable in compact spaces and families who don't perform excessive physical exercise. Being very intuitive and compassionate dogs that require minimal maintenance, pugs are one of the most popular dog breeds that people choose as pets. Ergo, pugs would make great pets. Pugs coats require minimal grooming, so this is also not a concern. But, a pug may suffer from various ailments, so proper care of their health is required.

Did you know...

Pugs were bred in ancient China for royal households, and Buddhist monks in monasteries. Not only were they bred for royal households but they were essentially given the same treatment and respect that the royals of China were given. A group of pugs is referred to as a grumble. The quality of a purebred pug is determined by the number of loops in their tail with two being the ideal and perfect number. Their short stature and squished noses are the sources of many health problems that relate to breathing. The most common medical issue that arises in pugs is brachycephalies.

Besides finding ancestral links with Tibetan mastiffs, pugs are a group of canines that are known to share their title with another mammal, marmoset monkeys. During the early years of the 18th century, these primates were referred to as pugs. However, this designation was passed on to the dogs, particularly due to similarities between the fascial anatomy.

According to the historical tales of the Dutch dynasty, these mesmerizing wide-eyed dogs played a legendary role in safeguarding the life of the Prince of House Orange. A confidential organization of Roman Catholics were designated after these members of canidae and were recognized as the 'Order of the Pug'. Pugs were considered to be a prized possession by Chinese royals, so much so that these canines were appointed personal guards.

In contrast to the present day robust and small build of pugs, their ancestors were comparatively slender and long. Besides their various historical legends, pugs also possess the esteemed honor of winning the 2004 world dog show. Pug breeds are a pure breed of canines. However, over the years, a number of designer dogs have been reared using the lines of these purebreeds. Pugapoo (poodle pug mix), corgi pug (Welsh corgi pug mix) and husky pug mixes are a few famous hybrids of pug breeds.

Pugs are an ancient group of canines. Their lineage can be traced back to before 400 BC. Pugs have also made big names on the silver screen. These canines can be spotted in numerous works such as 'Men In Black', 'Pocahontas', 'The Nut Job', 'The Adventures Of Milo & Otis', and 'The Secret Life Of Pets'.

These dogs are known to snore quite a lot. Though they are regarded in the category of small-sized canines, pugs are the largest in the category of toy dogs. Usually, members of the canidae family are known to possess wonderful swimming skills, however pugs are not known to be ardent fans of swimming.

Female members of this species are known to outlive male members. While the average longevity of male pugs ranges between 11 and 12 years, female members are known to reach a maximum age of 13 to 14 years.

Pugs, owing to their worldwide popularity, have earned numerous nomenclatures. Some examples of these are doguillo (Spain), mopshond (Holland),  lo-sze (China), mopsi (Finland) and Chinese or Dutch pug (England).

Characteristics and health issues

Although pugs are overall a healthy breed, a number of disorders are known to impact the health of these dogs. Though the average lifespan ranges between 12 to 15 years, these dogs can be affected by diseases, usually impacted by their facial anatomy. Disorders such as obstructive breathing issues, eye infections severely affecting the retina and cornea, keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye syndrome, resulting in reddening, irritation, or discharge from eyes), skin disease (such as cheyletiella dermatitis) and common skin allergies are known to be common issues which may impact the health condition of this breed. Regular visits to the vet are compulsory as they are prone to diseases.

The diseases that regularly impact pugs are: pug dog encephalitis, corneal ulcers, generalized demodectic mange, vaccination sensitivity, obesity, hip dysplasia, cheyletiella dermatitis, nerve degeneration disease, staph and yeast infection and hemi-vertebrae.

Getting your own pug

Pugs are small, loving, and compassionate canines that are a great choice for dog lovers to consider when looking to own a pet. These canines are excellent family dogs, given their friendly, calm, and playful temperament. Categorized under toy dogs, pugs have an adoring nature as well as being calm and gentle. These dogs make excellent options for novice owners. They are known to show low levels of aggression and are warm around strangers. However, due to their infamous popularity, these dogs can be quite expensive. Pet pugs can be available at as much as 600 USD to 1,500 USD. The cost of show canines with breeding lineage can range between 1,900 USD to 6,000 USD.

Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly animal facts for everyone to discover! Learn more about some other mammals including pitbull chihuahua mix, or cheagle.

You can even occupy yourself at home by drawing one of our Pug coloring pages.