In the dog world, there’s no breed more loveable and clownish than the pug! We all get excited whenever we see their adorable little rumps wiggle down the street. Pugs definitely stand out in a crowd. But not everyone knows just how unique and special these dogs truly are.
So, what are some interesting facts about pugs? We cover the 8 facts you probably didn’t know.
1. Worldwide domination! Pugs rank as one of the most popular dog breeds
No matter where on planet earth you live, chances are you have seen a pug! As a society, we can’t seem to get enough of them.
It’s no surprise then at the American Kennel Club ranked pugs as holding spot #29 on their annual 2020 list of popular dogs breeds. In fact, the waitlist to buy a pug can be very long. We have seen an explosion of interest in these dogs lately. Ever wonder how much a pug costs? Even though they are super trendy, a pedigree pug puppy will still cost anywhere from $1,500 – $2,500.
Popular? Yes.
Affordable and easy to get your hands on?
Not at all. If you are planning on adding a puppy to your home, don’t miss out on all of the essentials for them.
2. They were kept by royal emperors in ancient China
Second on our list of interesting facts about pugs is that thousands of years ago, they were owned by royalty.
Pug Dog Club of America shares the breed’s history. Way back in ancient China, these short-nosed dogs were owned by the wealthy. Emperors kept pugs as lapdogs. Often, a pug would be found running around a luxurious palace, playing with royal children, or being protected by guards.
Later, Dutch traders exported pugs to Europe.
And voila!
Pugs were suddenly prized possession amongst aristocracy in England, Holland, and in other countries across the continent.
Pugs have come a long way since 400 A.D. Today, we still value them as sweet-natured companions, just like royalty did in bygone eras.
3. Ugly or cute? It depends on the wrinkles
We can’t talk about pugs without addressing the elephant in the room… (And no, we don’t mean their tendency to be extra gassy and smelly!)
Our third interesting fact is all about wrinkles. To be specific, the deep pattern of wrinkles on a pug’s forehead. Rumor has it that these wrinkles were intentionally exaggerated over the centuries through the process of selective breeding.
The goal?
To make the wrinkles and rolls look like the Chinese word for “prince.” Ultimately, pugs were bred to have wrinkles. These didn’t occur naturally. However, we can all agree that this special physical characteristic is part of what makes pugs so cute.
4. Oink oink. Pugs are loud, proud, and snort like pigs
Indeed, pugs do snort like pigs! One of the funniest facts that we share those considering a pug has to do with how vocal they are.
Pugs are known to be noisy.
Though Pug City is correct in stating that they aren’t loud barkers, pugs do have a lot to say and won’t be afraid to tell you exactly how they feel. We find their sassy snorts hilarious.
5. Pugs are famous and unforgettable movie stars
Parents with kids in the 90’s surely remember Disney’s hit, Pocahontas. Who better to represent this dog breed than Percy the cartoon pug?
It turns out, pugs make phenomenal actors in real-life, too. Factually speaking, pugs have appeared in a dozen cinematic classics over the years. There was:
- Frank from Men in Black
- Lieutenant Pug from 101 Dalmatians
- Mel from the Secret Life of Pets
- Precious from The Nut Job
- JB from Kingsmen
And who could forget our favorite internet celebrity, Doug the Pug? Indeed, it seems pugs were built for stardom. Oh, and if you’re interested in more dog facts
6. “Grumble” is the quirky name for multiple pugs
This next pug fact is rather odd. National Dog Breed Day points out that whenever we see a group of pugs together, it is appropriate to refer to this gathering as a “grumble.” Who knew?
Perhaps the silly namesake comes from all the vigorous snorts, sniffles, grunts, and grumbles pugs are renowned for.
7. Shhh… Pugs have ties to ultra secret societies
We admit, this following fact came as a surprise. Believe it or not, there was a secret society called The Order of the Pug in 1740. It was made up of members who wanted to distinguish themselves from the pope of the Catholic Church. To do so, they chose the symbol of the pug to represent them.
According to historical documents, new recruits for the secret society even had to wear dog collars!
8. Never yell at a pug. They are emotionally sensitive animals
Last on our list of 8 interesting facts about pugs is the following: pugs are emotionally sensitive dogs. This means they need a loving owner.
Pugs flourish when they feel safe and secure.
Since they can be stubborn, a person must be patient when training a pug in obedience skills.
Dog Time gives pugs three stars when it comes to sensitivity levels. Therefore, we must be mindful of how we act around them.
Pugs don’t respond well to negative discipline, such as yelling. Instead, use positive praise.
Pugs are also extremely food motivated – so, load up on the yummy treats.