The Cherished Pug Breed
One of the oldest breeds, Pugs can trace their roots to China, Tibet and then Japan and Europe. When a silver pug name Pompey saved his masters life, the pug became the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland in 1572. The story goes that the pug heard soldiers approaching, licked his master William's face and barked loudly to wake William up. William did wake up and he and Pompey ran to safety.Some experts of the breed think that pugs are miniaturized from Mastiffs over 2400 years ago. Pugs have graced England for generations including the wife of Napoleon who is said to have been bitten by the pug on their wedding night. From Holland to France to England, pugs have held a place in the monarchy.
Pugs are best known for their unusual noses. They have a flat snub nose that frequently develops respiratory problems and is sensitive to extreme cold or hot temperatures. It is best to only exercise him during the cooler morning hours or the evening when the heat won't bother him as much. Pugs have short, good looking coats that shed quite a bit and require lots of brushing to keep it looking good and keep the skin healthy. They are also known to she a lot, so the brushing keeps the hair more contained in the brush than in your house. Pugs have loose skin so keep the area between the folds of skin clean.
Clean your pugs ears often. Check them for debris and make sure the ear is not sore or inflamed. If you do need to clean the ear, use a product made for pets with a cotton ball or Q-tip.
Pugs love people. They are simply content to just be in your presence for the most part, but don't forget to make activity part of their every day lives. Their propensity to gain weight demands lots of exercise to keep them from getting overweight and unhealthy.
Gaining weight is one thing that you must worry about with pugs. Make sure they have a nutrient rich diet of 40 to 50 nutrients. As with all animals and people too, a good diet is key to good health. Once you have established the food you will feed them, do not change. Changing food to often will result in an upset stomach or an imbalance. Fresh water is a must.
If you are not a breeder, it is always best to have your pug neutered. Neutering makes for a healthier, better adjusted pet especially for pugs who need to be kept indoors out of the heat.
Spayed or neutered pets are less prone to ovarian, mammary, prostate, and anal cancer. Also, it will prevent unwanted litters with other breeds.
posted by Posh Pampered Pets @ 11:35 AM
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