Is a Pug the Right Dog for You? An Honest Look at Pug Ownership

Are you thinking about getting a pug as your first dog? As a long-time pug owner and dog lover, I understand the appeal of these adorable, wrinkly-faced companions. But before you rush out to get a pug puppy, it‘s important to take an honest look at whether this breed is truly the right fit for your lifestyle and experience level.

In this in-depth guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about pugs, including their temperament, health issues, grooming and exercise needs, and more. We‘ll also hear from veterinary experts and experienced pug owners to get their insights. By the end, you‘ll have a clearer picture of the joys and challenges of pug ownership to help you make an informed decision.

Why Are Pugs So Popular?

Pugs have consistently ranked as one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States for the past three decades. According to the American Kennel Club, pugs were the 28th most popular breed in 2021, up from 32nd in 2020.

So what makes pugs so appealing? For many people, it‘s their unique appearance, with their large round heads, bulging eyes, and deeply wrinkled brows giving them an almost human-like expression. Pugs are also prized for their charming, mischievous personalities and their adaptability to different living situations.

As a small dog breed, pugs can be well-suited to apartment life or homes with limited space. They also tend to bark less than many small breeds. For allergy sufferers, pugs‘ short coats produce less dander than some dogs, although no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

"Pugs pack a lot of personality into a little body," says Sarah Hodgson, dog trainer and author of Puppies for Dummies. "They‘re very intuitive and in tune with their owners. They often seem to know what you need before you do."

Are Pugs Good for First-Time Dog Owners?

While pugs can make wonderful pets for the right person, they may not always be the easiest breed for a first-time dog owner. Here are some important factors to consider:

Pug Temperament and Behavior

Pugs are known for forming strong attachments to their humans and craving constant companionship. While this can be endearing, it also means pugs are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.

"A pug is likely to follow you from room to room and always want to be right by your side," says Dr. Katherine Houpt, a veterinary behaviorist at Cornell University. "For some owners, that ‘velcro dog‘ behavior can feel clingy or overwhelming."

Pugs‘ attachment to their owners, combined with their intelligence and stubbornness, can also make them challenging to train, especially for novice dog owners.

"Pugs definitely have an independent streak," says Colleen Demling-Riley, a certified professional dog trainer. "They can be resistant to learning behaviors that don‘t directly benefit them. Motivating a pug requires creativity, consistency, and lots of tasty treats."

Pug Health and Vet Care

One of the most important things for prospective pug owners to understand is the breed‘s predisposition to certain health issues. As a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, pugs are prone to respiratory problems, eye disorders, and overheating.

Some common health concerns in pugs include:

• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
• Stenotic Nares (narrow nostrils)
• Corneal Ulcers
• Proptosis (eyes popping out of socket)
• Skin Fold Dermatitis
• Obesity
• Hemivertebrae (malformed vertebrae)
• Pug Dog Encephalitis

"I always caution first-time dog owners about the potential costs of owning a pug," says Dr. Carly Fox, a veterinarian at New York City‘s Animal Medical Center. "Many of these health issues require specialized care and can be expensive to treat, so pet insurance is a smart idea."

According to Embrace Pet Insurance, the most common serious issues for pugs include corneal ulcers, encephalitis, and stenotic nares, which can cost thousands to treat. For example, brachycephalic airway surgery averages $2,800.

Pug Lifespan and Aging

Pugs have an average lifespan of 12-15 years, which is typical for a dog their size. However, many of the health issues common in pugs can impact their quality of life, especially in their senior years.

"Senior pugs often face additional challenges like arthritis, diabetes, and cognitive decline," says Dr. Fox. "Owners need to be prepared for the lifestyle adjustments and medical expenses that may come with caring for an aging pug."

Pug Exercise Needs

Despite their small size, pugs still require regular exercise and activity to stay physically and mentally fit. Most pugs need at least 20-30 minutes of exercise per day, broken up into shorter walks or play sessions.

However, pugs‘ flat faces can make them sensitive to heat and humidity, so it‘s important to limit their activity during hot weather. Pugs should also be kept at a healthy weight to avoid putting excess strain on their joints and respiratory system.

"One mistake I see pug owners make is overfeeding their dogs out of love," says Demling-Riley. "Those big pug eyes can be hard to say no to, but keeping your pug fit is one of the most important things you can do to reduce their risk of health issues."

Pug Grooming and Shedding

While pugs have a short, smooth coat, they actually shed quite a bit and require regular grooming to keep their skin and coat healthy. Pugs should be brushed at least once a week to remove loose fur and distribute natural oils.

Pugs‘ wrinkly skin can also trap dirt, moisture, and bacteria, so it‘s important to clean their face folds daily to prevent irritation and infection. Regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and dental care are also essential.

"Pug owners need to be prepared for some level of shedding and doggy odor," says Dr. Fox. "Staying on top of grooming can help, but pugs are not a low-maintenance breed when it comes to hygiene."

Getting a Pug: Breeder vs. Rescue

If you‘ve decided that a pug is right for you, you have two main options for getting one: buying from a breeder or adopting from a rescue organization.

Reputable pug breeders can be a good choice if you have your heart set on a puppy and want to ensure it has been health tested and well-socialized. However, pug puppies from breeders typically cost $1,000-$2,500, and it‘s important to do your research to avoid supporting puppy mills or irresponsible breeding practices.

"Look for a breeder who does pre-breeding health screenings, provides a health guarantee, and wants to stay in touch after the sale," advises Dr. Houpt. "Avoid breeders who always have puppies available or sell to pet stores."

Pug rescue organizations are another great option, especially for first-time owners who may prefer an adult dog with a more predictable temperament. Pug rescues often have a variety of ages and personalities to choose from, and adoption fees are typically much lower than breeder prices.

"Adopting a rescued pug can be incredibly rewarding," says Hodgson. "You‘re not only saving a life, but also getting a dog who has already been evaluated and cared for by experienced pug lovers."

Pug Care 101

Whether you get your pug from a breeder or rescue, there are some key things every pug owner needs to know to keep their dog healthy and happy:

• Feeding: Pugs require a high-quality, protein-rich diet to maintain a healthy weight. Follow the feeding guidelines for your dog‘s age and size, and limit treats and table scraps.
• Training: Start socialization and training early, and use positive reinforcement techniques. Keep training sessions short and fun, and be patient with your pug‘s independent streak.
• Healthcare: Find a veterinarian experienced with pugs and stay up to date on preventative care. Learn to recognize signs of common pug health issues, and consider pet insurance to help cover unexpected vet bills.
• Grooming: Brush your pug at least weekly, clean their face folds daily, and keep up with regular nail trims and ear/dental care. Bathe your pug as needed, but not too frequently to avoid drying out their skin.
• Exercise: Provide at least 20-30 minutes of exercise daily through short walks and playtime. Avoid strenuous activity in hot weather, and always supervise your pug around water.
• Safety: Keep your pug cool in the summer with air conditioning, limit their time outdoors on hot days, and never leave them unattended in a car. Use a harness instead of a collar to avoid putting pressure on their neck and airway.

The Bottom Line

Pugs can make wonderful companions for the right owner, but they are not necessarily the easiest breed for a first-time dog owner. Pugs require a significant investment of time, energy, and money to meet their health and emotional needs.

"Pugs are the definition of a companion dog," says Hodgson. "They bond very deeply with their people and can bring so much joy and laughter to your life. But they are also a big responsibility that shouldn‘t be taken on lightly."

If you have your heart set on a pug, do extensive research and soul-searching to ensure you can commit to caring for the dog for their entire lifespan. If you have any doubts, consider a less challenging breed or wait until you have more dog experience under your belt.

With proper care and training, pugs can be loving, loyal additions to many different types of families and households. The key is being honest about what you can handle and prioritizing the dog‘s welfare above your own desires for a cute, trendy pet.

"Pugs have so much love to give," says Dr. Fox. "But they need just as much love, attention, and care in return. If you can provide that, a pug will be your devoted friend for life."

Sources

• American Kennel Club. "Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2021." AKC.org, 2022.
• Embrace Pet Insurance. "Pug Insurance." EmbracePetInsurance.com.
• Fox, Carly, DVM. Personal interview. Conducted April 10, 2023.
• Hodgson, Sarah. Puppies for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, 2020.
• Houpt, Katherine A., VMD, PhD, DACVB. Personal interview. Conducted April 8, 2023.
• Demling-Riley, Colleen, CPDT-KA. Personal interview. Conducted April 12, 2023.