Let us stat with a question. What are pugs? Pugs are very loving, kind, happy, playful, sweet and are good with children and other pets. Pugs are good house dogs and are good in an apartment. With their squished faces and floppy ears, everyone loves them!

Pugs are an ancient dog breed. They have been around since 400 BC. That’s about 2,000 years!! They originated in the 3rd largest country today, China. In the late 17th century pugs were transferred to England by the Dutch East India Company. It was Queen Victoria who popularized them and passed on the liking of pugs in the royal family. An interesting fact is that all throughout history pugs were treated like royal pets. They were even sometimes given their own mini palaces and guards! The AKC market recognized the breed in 1885.

Pugs have changed tremendously in look over the past 2,000 years. The majority changed in 1890s. Pugs used to be much skinnier, they used to have longer legs, and they got shorter muzzles, and their wrinkles has increased. They changed due to selective breeding practices favored by humans.

You are probably most familiar with the fawn color and black mask of pugs.

But did you know that there are so many other colors that pugs can come in? Here are just a few: Black, Apricot, Chocolate, Brindle, and white. Brindle is the least common with only 1% of pugs being that color. While Fawn is the most popular. 63.1% of pugs are Fawn.

Unfortunately, pugs do have health issues just like any other dog breed. Here are some to look out for:

• Obesity. Obesity is when the pug is overweight. And their health gets harmed. Obesity can lead to many other health issues. To avoid this keep your pug on a healthy diet. Most pugs should be fed 2 times a day. While puppies should be fed 3-4 times a day. Usually 1.5 cups of rich dog food should do it. Also it is important to monitor your pugs weight. An average adult pug should weigh 14-18 pounds. Also give your pug plenty of exercise (about an hour is good) even though they may seem happier on the couch.

• Brachycephalic Syndrome. Brachycephalic Syndrome occurs because due to their narrow nostrils and flattened face it makes it difficult for pugs to breathe properly.

• Skin Folds. Pugs have wrinkles all over their body, but unfortunately their folds can trap moisture and bacteria which would lead to infections. To avoid this make sure to clean their wrinkles daily with a moist towel, unscented baby wipes, or canine wipes. And make sure to dry them after. (Here are some tips. Avoid wipes that apply alcohol or harsh ingredients that could dry out your pug’s skin. Scented wipes can possibly irritate your pug skin.)

• Knee Luxation. Because of their short legs they're kneecap can dislocate easily.

• Heat Intolerance. Due to their short muzzles it can be difficult for pugs to regulate their body temperature.  To avoid this on hot walks make sure to always provide fresh water and shade. If you notice restless panting bring them inside a cool shelter immediately.

Sadly there is more. But these are only a few to look out for.

A pug is not easy to find in a shelter. Even though it Is possible, pugs are often sought for. Meaning, if you find one, and you want it, there is a lot of computation. However, there are rescues that were made specifically for pugs such as, Pug Nation or Pug Rescue of Austin. It really depends on where you live.

However, there is another option, getting a pug from a breeder, which would mean getting a pug puppy. In this case you will have to do more research. You can't get a pug from just anyone. You must make sure that they're taking care of the Pug mother and puppies properly. Some breeders just do it for the money and do not care about the animal. Here are some ways identify whether you are dealing with a reliable breeder or a bad breeder:

1.     Ask about health testing for the parents. Good breeders usually would conduct generic testing on the dog that they are currently breeding to ensure that they are free from common health issues affecting the breed.

2.     Ask to visit the Breeders facility. A reliable breeder will welcome you to wherever they are breeding their pug and allow you to the parents and puppies in a healthy and clean environment.

3.  Avoid breeders who say that they always have puppies available. They may be getting these puppies from a puppy mill, so be cautious.

These are just some things to consider when getting a pug from a breeder. The most popular place to get a pug or any breed it the AKC market. These is a well trusted company with usually well trusted breeders. However, you should still do your research anyway if you are getting your pug from this company.A pug from a breeder can cost 1,000 to 2,500 dollars per pug depending on the pug’s genetic history. If you were to adopt however, the price range would be from 50 to 500 dollars. However, you were not promised good health as if you would from a reliable breeder.

Getting a pug is a big deal. So you have to be ready. As soon as you conform that you are getting one start getting supplies.  Your pug will need: Food and water bowls, a collar and leash, bed and blankets, a nail clipper, a brush, shampoo, training traits and toys, a crate (optional but recommended), and a pet carrier.

Even though pugs have a vast number of health issues that does not shorten their life span! The average pug lives 12-15 years. If you want me to get more specific, the average life span for a female pugs is 13.2 years and male is 12.8 years. The number is just an educated guess, even if it is mostly accurate there is always a chance your male pug can live longer than a female. A study shows that neutered pugs, no matter what sex, tend to live longer than pugs that are not neutered. This is because there is a lower chance to get reproductive cancers, reduced risk of infections, less stress, and improved behavior and health. It important to get your pug neutered so he/she can live a healthier, happier, and even longer life. Here are some more tips on how to get your pug to live long and happy:

-Sleep. It is very important your pugs get enough sleep each day and every night. About 12 hours every day minimum.

-Good Food. As we talked about pugs can get obese, which can be dangerous. If you put your pug on a healthy diet, despite those big begging eyes, he/she will thank you later.

-Exercise. Your pug should be getting about an hour which includes their daily walks, playtime, and zoomies.

-Mental stimulation. You should always provide toys and fun things for your pug to do so your pug doesn't constantly get bored.

-Hygiene. Make sure to keep your pug clean by cleaning nose wrinkles and talking him/her a bath every 3 weeks or so.