Pugs are known for their small stature, wrinkly face, and loveable nature. Originating from China and moving to Europe in the sixteenth century, they’ve become a popular breed in Western society, notably by the English royal family, thanks to Queen Victoria.
Their distinct features include a short muzzle, a light fawn coat, and a square/ compact body shape. Although they come in a variety of colours, they’re known for their beige appearance.
Interested in learning about this quirky breed? Read our guide below to learn about the Pug dog.
If you’d like to get to know the breed a little more closely, here are a few key traits and facts about the Pug:
Pugs have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
Pugs have a double coat and shed a moderate to high amount of fur.
Pugs are a small breed, with slight differences in size across adult males and females. Males' height ranges from 30-36cm, while females range from 25-30cm. On the other hand, males’ weight range from 6-9kg, while females range from 6-8kg.
Let’s face it - Pugs are adorable. From their big eyes to their waddle, they’re a lovable breed that brings happiness to their owners. Despite their cute physical appearance, it’s important to note that they’re often prone to some health problems.
As a result of overbreeding, Pugs can suffer from breathing issues associated with brachycephalic syndrome. This health condition restricts airways and is prominent in breeds with short muzzles and smaller faces. If you choose to buy a Pug, making sure they don’t overexert themselves while doing physical activity can help alleviate symptoms of this condition.
Known for their humorous demeanour, Pugs offer hours of entertainment to their owners. Bred to be lap dogs, they love companionship and any opportunity to spend time with their human(s). Pugs need a loving environment where they can get lots of attention, ideally a family where one person works from home or someone single that’s looking for extra company!
Pugs are a short-haired breed, so you don’t need to spend copious amounts of time brushing their coats. However, due to the texture of their skin, they can prone to bacterial or fungal skin fold infections, specifically on their faces. A way that may help prevent your Pug from getting this skin condition is to clean out the folds with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly once a day.
Because of their compact size and relaxed nature, Pugs may be susceptible to weight gain. Although they’re suited to apartment-style living situations without a yard, it’s important to take them out for daily walks to ensure they remain active. Pugs can overexert themselves if they exercise in hot weather, so opt to take walks earlier in the morning or later in the day.
Portion control is a must when it comes to feeding a Pug. Due to their size, overeating can quickly turn into weight gain. Depending on what your vet advises, it’s usually best to feed Pugs dry kibble as opposed to wet canned food. Kibble can help maintain oral health and is less likely to cause diarrhoea. It’s recommended to create a feeding schedule for your Pug too, which can help you control how much they eat. To tide them over between dinner and breakfast, you can incorporate 3-4 (low calorie) snacks into their diet per day.
Short-nosed breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Boxers can all be susceptible to Brachycephalic airway syndrome, which restricts breathing in the upper airway. Because dogs only sweat through their nose and footpads, they have to pant through their mouths to cool themselves down. With shortened airways, Pugs can have trouble regulating their temperature, which can lead to overheating.
As cute and bulgy as they are, Pug's eyes can cause them problems. Because of their positioning on the face, Pugs can suffer from keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) and proptosis (popped out eyeball). Looking out for red eyes or discharge regularly can help prevent eye problems from developing.
If you’re thinking about getting pet insurance for your Pug, factors like age and location could affect the cost of your premium. Everyday Pet Insurance offers Basic, Standard, Comprehensive and Comprehensive Plus cover that can help protect you and your furry friend. Check what each insurance cover includes.
Claim up to $30,000 a year
Get up to 80% back on eligible vet bills
Your pet is covered from 8 weeks old for life
Claim your benefit on the spot and only pay the gap on eligible claims=
# Policy Terms and Conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Benefit limit amounts vary by level of cover.
* Exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply.
‡ Cover is available for the life of your pet provided you renew your policy each year without any break, lapse or change in the level of Cover. This means once your pet is insured with us and as long as we continue to offer the product, you will be able to renew your policy for that pet for life provided you continuously maintain the cover. Cover is subject to the terms and conditions of your renewing policy. See details in your PDS.
= The gap is defined as the difference between the vet's invoice and the claim benefit under your policy. Policy terms and conditions apply. GapOnly® is only available at participating Vets. Please visit GapOnly® to search for GapOnly® enabled vets. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (PetSure) (ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183).
Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time prior to 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436 (Hollard), arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by Hollard’s Authorised Representative (AR) Woolworths Group Limited ABN 88 000 014 675, AR 245476 (Woolworths). Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time on or after 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, Woolworths. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at insurance.everyday.com.au/pet-insurance.
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