The black Pug is a dog that originated in China and only later reached Europe. However, the Pug breed is recognised by OIPA, the International Organization for Animal Protection, as a group of companion dogs.
Pugs are dogs of ancient origin. They are very robust and docile. Of noble birth, the Pug was adored by Chinese emperors and later became the favourite breed of the Dutch royal house of Orange. They are now widespread throughout the West.
Historical Origins of the Pug breed
The first records of the Pug date back to 600 B.C. in China, where it is called the Lo-Sze Pug. Emperors loved the pug so much that females of the breed were considered nobles on par with their wives. The Pug came to Europe much later, around 1500-1600, when trade relations with China intensified. These dogs were brought as gifts by traders returning from their trips to the Orient.
During the reign of William III of Orange, it arrived in England and became the most popular dog breed with the entire aristocratic family, whose mascot it became. It is said that King William’s Pug saved him from an enemy attack on his camp simply by barking.
In Italy, it was called Carlino by the actor Carlo Bertinazzi, also known as ‘Carlino’ who played the character of Harlequin with an all-black, wrinkled mask that resembled this dog’s snout.
From there, it spread throughout Europe, even winning the hearts of Marie Antoinette and Josephine Bonaparte. In England, it took the name ‘pug’ or ‘mops’ (i.e. snout), which derives from the Latin word ‘pugnus,‘ i.e. ‘fist‘, believing that the bill resembles it.
General Description of the Pug
Decidedly square and collected, the ‘multum in parvo‘ is a Latin term meaning “a lot of dogs in a small space,” demonstrated in its compactness of form, solid structure and powerful musculature.
The pug loves to be at home and does not like to be left alone. Sharing happy moments with his owner is everything to him. It is a great companion dog that adapts easily to life with other dogs and establishes a friendly relationship even with strangers.
He loves to play and has a fair amount of energy and vigour. The black Pug also loves playing with children. He can develop a tendency to put on weight, so it is necessary to provide him with a fair amount of daily exercise. Maintenance costs are average.
Appearance and Attributes of the Black Pug
According to the breed standard, the Pug’s constitution is that of a relatively small and well-proportioned dog. Characterising the Pug’s appearance is the particular conformation of the skull and muzzle. The former is somewhat rounded and significantly flattened, causing that specific expression to be considered very sympathetic.
The structure of the paws is minimal; however, it is characterised by discrete musculature. The back is also mainly developed, tending to be relatively uniform from the torso to the tail. The colours are clearly defined. Silver, apricot, fawn and black are permitted, all with masks.
Physical characteristics permitted by the standard:
- Height: 26 to 34 cm
- Weight: 6 to 8 kg
- Longevity: 12 to 14 years
- Colour: fawn, black, apricot, silver
- Fur: smooth, short
- Coat: masked, two-tone, double coat
Price and maintenance black Pug
The price of a Pug breed puppy, tested and with a pedigree, is between £800 and £ 1,500. Given the breed’s fame and popularity, a severe and experienced breeder should only purchase a Pug puppy.
Thus, it will avoid morphological and psychophysical problems. The breeder you choose will have subjected his breeding stock to the prescribed examinations. The Pug is a small dog, so feeding will not affect the maintenance costs much.
The cost of quality food for an adult pug is around £35 per month. Grooming can also be carried out at home and does not see the need for professional intervention. However, veterinary visits will be as required and testing the Pug for the most common diseases that may afflict the breed is recommended.
Pros and cons of the Black Pug
Top 5 characteristics:
The five most problematic characteristics:
- Child friendliness
- Relationship with strangers
- Sociality with other dogs
- Suitable as a first dog
- Character and temperament
- Tolerance to cold temperatures
- Tolerance to hot temperatures
- Tolerance of being alone
- Hair care and loss
- Tendency to put on weight
Black Pug. Character and sociability
Character and temperament
“Of excellent character and temperament”.
The Breed Standard describes the Pug’s character with a few striking indications: “Great charm, dignity and intelligence. Always have an equal temperament, happy and lively. What more can be said?
The Pug has the regal charm of oriental dogs but, at the same time, has a funny expression reminiscent of a Harlequin. Dignity and intelligence are preponderant qualities. It does not have a fickle character; on the contrary, it is full of temperament and joie de vivre.
Affection for the family
“Great affection towards the family”
The Pug is a champion of affection. It makes no distinctions within the family and turns its attention to everyone. In addition, it has innate sympathy and docility, which can be appreciated by both young and old owners.
The Pug always knows how to put himself in the right way and, for the family, is one of the most valued companion dogs.
Friendly with children
“Very friendly with children.“
The affectionate nature of the pug can also be aimed at very young people who are highly willing to interact with this breed. The Pug likes to play, is patient, willingly cooperates, and adapts to needs.
He is respectful towards children and knows how to move around them appropriately. He is friendly and willingly accepts minor faults, although one must always be very careful with interactions between children and dogs.
Interaction with strangers
“Has a good interaction with strangers.“
The Pug is a quiet dog that shows interest in everyone and everything. If well socialised, it will not be afraid of strangers and will interact with them in a friendly manner. But, of course, when he is in his environment, his instinct to protect his family and home will make him active in guarding, and he will be an excellent spotter.
Sociality with other dogs
“Excellent sociability with other dogs.”
The Pug is friendly and social and gets along well with his fellow dogs. You will get him used to interacting from an early age, always attentive to other dogs’ reactions, as he is small. Despite his structure as a small Molossian, he could get into unpleasant situations. Be careful when he is still a puppy and may not interpret other dogs’ gestures well.
The adaptability of the Black Pug
Suitable for flat living
“Suitable for flat life.“
The Pug is a companion breed and, as such, happily shares a balanced life with its family. It is a small dog that moves quickly in any home. It will be taken for daily walks for its psychophysical healing health. It will also entertain its fellow dogs so that it socialises as much as possible, both with people and with other animals.
The Pug is not a breed that can live outdoors, but if it does have to be outside, it must have a warm place to take refuge and an ideal space for the summer.
Tolerance of being alone
“Impossible to be left alone.”
Because of its size, the Pug can share every moment of the day with its owner. It is not a dog that likes to be alone; as a companion dog, it also prefers to spend time with its family. One must be aware that, when choosing a Pug, the responsibility of presence is indispensable—leaving a Pug alone for too long means having a dog that could develop psychological illnesses.
Suitable as a first dog
“Suitable enough for inexperienced owners.“
The Pug is an adorable breed with a unique, sweet and affectionate character. However, it is susceptible and should be treated with extreme respect, although it is a dignified dog, like all native Oriental breeds.
He has no problems with his approach and is always affectionate and treatable. Even if the owner is a first-time dog owner, the Pug is recommended for its friendly and adaptable character. It does not need special education, as it is brilliant and adapts quickly to its owner’s demands.
Tolerance to cold temperatures
“Breed not very tolerant of cold temperatures”.
The Pug’s very muscular structure is not suited to cold temperatures. Although its short coat is thick, it does not sufficiently shelter it from the cold. Therefore, during winter walks, it is advisable to wear a coat to prevent colds. Daily outings will, however, be a boon for his physique, especially his psychological state.
Tolerance to hot temperatures
“It is intolerant of hot temperatures”.
As with cold temperatures, hot temperatures are not suitable for the Pug. This dog particularly suffers from this environmental condition, mainly because of the particular conformation of its muzzle, which characterises the functioning of its respiratory tract. Heat and humidity can be complex problems for the Pug. It is essential that the owner pays particular attention during the day and encourages daily outings early in the morning and late in the evening.
Care and Health black Pug
Grooming and hair loss
“Hair loss is kept under control with grooming”.
The Pug’s coat is dense and has an undercoat. The Breed Standard defines it as “fine, smooth, short and glossy; neither rough nor woolly.” It undergoes two seasonal moults per year, but hair loss is negligible if brushed at least thrice weekly during these periods.
Salivation and drool containment
“Average drool containment”
The Pug has a short, flattened muzzle, which may result in saliva loss. However, considering the breed’s size, drool loss is almost negligible.
Ease of cleaning
“Little need for cleaning”
Grooming is a manageable phase for the Pug. Good weekly brushing and a wipe with a hair removal glove are sufficient to keep the coat shiny and in good condition. Special attention must be paid to the eyes, which must be cleansed several times a day and lacrimation kept under control. Once a week, the ears are checked for irritation or inflammation.
Health and illness
“Health and disease average”
The Pug enjoys good health but needs some care. Pay particular attention to eye diseases, patella dysplasia, and aseptic necrosis of the femoral head. These are the diseases to which it may be susceptible, but as a rule, if you buy your puppy from a breeder, the likelihood of it suffering from any illness is quite rare.
Tendency to gain weight
“Could gain weight if not well fed.”
Keeping in perfect shape is one of the qualities a Pug owner must owner’s face. The Pug is greedy and could put on excess weight if not fed properly. A good diet and exercise will keep the Pug in top shape and not strain the joints and cardiovascular system.
Black Pug Learning
Intelligence and training
“It is an intelligent and active breed.“
As already specified, even the Breed Standard states that the Pug is intelligent. It has a very active temperament and willingly interacts with everyone.
He adapts well to any occasion, and his intelligence precisely supports this quality, which makes him always perceive the same side when dealing with any situation. Black Pug is alert and interpretive. He knows how to distinguish himself by his sympathy and empathy with his family and, above all, with his beloved owner.
Loyalty and escapes
“Very loyal with few tendencies to escape.“
The Pug is attached to his family and home and has no particular propensity for predation. Therefore, it has no reason to stray from its affections to seek excitement elsewhere. Care must, however, be taken to ensure that he is focused while out for a walk to avoid unintentionally getting lost if he is left off the lead, which is, moreover, prohibited by law.
Tendency to bite
“It is undoubtedly not a biting dog.“
It indeed cannot be said that the Pug is a biting dog. On the contrary, black Pug gets along well with everyone and socialises very happily. Such a social dog would never take the trouble to be aggressive except to defend the family. It is not a guard dog but a good spotter who dares to spare despite its small size.
Tendency to hunt prey
“Low tendency to hunt prey”
The Pug is a companion dog that has no predatory instinct. Chasing a cat or other animal is not in its nature, although it might do so, but only for fun. He has no hunter instinct as he loves everyone, but care must be taken so that the black Pug does not become prey, as he trusts everyone.
Tendency to bark or howl
“It’s a good spotter.”
Like all suitable detectors, the Pug loves to bark and does so whenever he thinks it is helpful to alert his owner to something happening that is not agreeable to him. Therefore, if a dog mainly barks, teach it not to bark, and you will soon have good results.
The Black Pug Needs Exercise
Energy level
“Average energy level”
The Pug is a small dog with a low energy level, which it knows how to use well during playtime and interaction with its owner. It loves to lie on the couch at home and relax, but it also knows how to follow its owner briskly during walks that must never fail to sharpen its intelligence and satisfy its curiosity.
Vigour
“Mildness and vigour average”
It is a mild, active, and vigorous breed. The Pug has an innate friendliness that enthuses everyone he meets. He interacts well with anyone, even those he does not know, unless they are dangerous to his family or territory. It is friendly and playful.
Need for exercise
“Needs a fair amount of exercise per day.“
Like all dogs, the Pug needs exercise, which brings excellent intellectual benefits. Walks should be appropriate to his size, and play should never be exaggerated. Vitality and sociability do the rest, which, together with exercise, will make the Pug a happy and fit dog.
Tendency to play
“Excellent tendency to play”
Playfulness is one of the pug’s predominant factors. He loves interacting with his family, owner, children, and other animals. It is a lively dog that needs to express itself in play and be considered a fun family member. He is named after Carlo Bertinazzi, an actor who played the part of Harlequin in Paris, whose black mask resembles our little Malossi. He is practically a “character” but has the dignity and wisdom of all oriental races.
Curiosities about the Black Pug
The Pug is one of the oldest dog breeds born before 400 BC. In Tibetan monasteries, it was famous as a companion dog. An anecdote also shows that Napoleon’s wife, Josephine, owned a Pug named Fortunè, which she used to send secret messages hidden in its collar to her husband. At the same time, she was locked up in the Les Carmes monastery with Madame Tussaud. Fortunè was, in fact, the only one who could visit the lady.
Many famous people have liked this breed, even recently. Pug fanciers include Andy Warhol, Jessica Alba, and even Avril Lavigne. Frank, the dogged agent from Men in Black, is one of the best-known pugs. His grumpy character has made millions of people love this exceptional breed. Another famous Pug in the world is Doug the Pug, the most famous Pug in the world!
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