Don't Get A Pug Dog...

Article Title: Don't Get A Pug Dog...
Author: Michelle Arthur

...until you've read this article, chock full of expert Pug
information to help you decide if a Pug is the right dog for you
and your family!

Here's the vital 411 you need to know on Pugs, from their
history to upkeep and health issues, before you bring one home.

Pugs are small in size and are members of the toy dog group.
But don't be fooled...though small in stature, these are quite
powerful and often heavy dogs! Adult pugs vary in weight from
approximately 15 to 25 lbs, with females weighing on the low end
and males on the high end. Pugs are "a lot in a little package"
and you shouldn't be afraid to horse around with them – they're
not delicate creatures, so feel free to play tug and roughhouse
around a bit!

Don't get a Pug if you want a silent dog...Pugs make a lot of
funny sounds, many of them quite loud! They will snort and snore
and make other wheezing noises due to their squished-in
noses…but they tend to not be barkers, so you'll be spared the
yipping characteristic of most other small breeds.

In terms of personality, Pugs are affectionate, loyal, playful
dogs with wonderful personalities. They love to keep your
attention and will do almost anything to keep you entertained.
Many people think of them as little clowns.

Do you have children at home? If so, good news...Pugs get along
very well with children and are ideally suited for a family's
home. Our two Pugs are terrific around our 6-month-old baby, and
they've also played well with our friends' toddlers. They are
not aggressive with other people – far from it! As far as other
dogs, Pugs usually get along well but just be careful as you
would with any breed until you and your Pug get to know the
other dog.

When it comes to training a Pug, be warned, this is a stubborn
breed! They're intelligent dogs and they aim to please, but once
a Pug has something in their minds, it can be tough to change.
The best bet is to use treats as an "ethical food bride" in your
training efforts and to try a positive training method such as
clicker training, which is ideally suited for this sensitive,
affectionate breed.

Don't neglect exercise for these dogs. Pugs need to have plenty
of exercise on a daily basis despite their small size. Daily
exercise will often do a terrific job of helping your Pug stay
healthy. And just a brisk walk for 20 to 30 minutes would be
ideal, so don't worry about running marathons with `em. Just
build some time into your schedule to let these dynamos stretch
their legs every day.

Here's some more good news...Pugs have a life expectancy of 12
to 15 years when healthy, and many live longer! So this means
you can look forward to a long time together with your Pug.
There are two major health issues that you need to keep an eye
on, however -- CHD and Pug dog encephalitis. Check with your vet
for more info on both issues.

This is all the Pug information you need to decide whether this
is the right dog for you...good luck to you!

About The Author: Michelle Arthur is a Pug owner, trainer and
lover. For free videos, training tips and expert advice on Pugs,
see http://www.UltimatePug.com

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