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Hound Handbook
Breed profile

Pug

A comical, people-focused toy dog. The flat face that makes it famous also brings real breathing, eye and heat problems.

A fawn pug with a black mask stands on fallen leaves in an autumn forest
A pug out in the cool autumn air, which suits that short face far better than summer heat.Photo: Renexist / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Weight
6.3–8.1 kg14–18 lb
Height
25–33 cm10–13 in
Lifespan
8–13 yrs
Group
Toy
Origin
China
Popularity
#38 US#30 UK · 2025

Known for: Flat-friendlyLap dogs

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Affectionate, Playful, Sociable, Stubborn.

Health problems to know about

Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed. Veterinary organisations in several countries urge buyers to choose dogs with longer muzzles or health-tested parents, because breathing problems are common and can be severe.

  • Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
  • Corneal ulcers and other eye injuries
  • Skin fold dermatitis
  • Pug dog encephalitis
  • Hemivertebrae and other spinal problems

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Short, gentle walks and play; avoid heat and hard exercise. Clean skin folds and check eyes daily. Keep weight lean, because extra fat worsens breathing, and walk on a harness rather than a collar.

A good fit for

Flats and quieter homes, people who want a sociable lap companion, owners who can budget for vet care.

Probably not ideal for

Hot climates without air conditioning, joggers, anyone unprepared for airway surgery or ongoing eye care.

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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