Despite not traditionally being considered service dogs, pugs make excellent therapy dogs! Although they are not suitable for a Seeing-Eye dog or a guide dog, they can offer emotional support.
Pugs are warm and kind-hearted animals that usually develop an intense bond with their owners over time. However, this is one reason why they would be great as therapy dogs. The following reasons demonstrate why pugs make good therapy dogs.
The Unique Traits of Pugs as Service & Therapy Dogs
Pugs have a reputation for being affectionate and friendly, which are the qualities that a service dog should have. Their small size makes them perfect for companionship and aid in places where larger breeds might be impractical. Furthermore, pugs possess high levels of intuition and empathy concerning human feelings, thus making them fit into roles requiring emotional support.
Because of their friendly disposition, pugs are well suited to therapeutic roles; hence, they can offer solace and companionship to people struggling with emotional or mental issues. Additionally, the strong attachment between Pugs and their masters also suits them for tasks involving intimate human interactions.
The Right Temperament for Therapy Dogs
Training a therapy dog also means understanding that the right dog should be one that can provide companionship, affection, and emotional support. A pug can lift your spirits, provided it has the right personality.
This breed is small to medium in size and has an amazing disposition that helps it cope with different owners’ needs. Pugs get along well with humans, which makes it easy for their owners to feel better and find solace in them. Their sense of humor makes them ideal for those who have depression or are disabled.
This action is very soothing in relation to various diseases as people stroke pugs among patients. In addition, pugs are very loyal because they want to stay close to you all the time. Your pug will make you his world and will enjoy being given attention back.
Low Maintenance and Good Manners
Pugs are a type of breed that requires very little maintenance. In most cases, they tend to be quiet indoors and do not become too active, which is an advantage for older people who want a pet. Notwithstanding, you will have to walk your pug regularly and ensure it gets playing time.
Pug behavior is known to be quite calm. On the whole, they are well-mannered once disciplined but can still learn basic commands. Importantly, they can sit beside you for some time without continual licking or pawing.
If the pet has an older owner or visits a hospital, it has to be able to stay calm in this environment without becoming out-of-control or noisy. Pugs are good therapy dogs because they are social animals and not highly bothered by hospital machines like wheelchairs, tubes, and walkers.
They Like Human Contact
As we mentioned earlier on, pugs are friendly dogs. A therapy dog needs to be comfortable with human contact and around many people. Should their owner ever stay in a hospital with them, there will be unfamiliar faces everywhere. Yet, others will respond happily, unlike other breeds that may become aggressive or defensive.
A therapy pug needs to be able to handle a lot of affection, and pugs really like it! Pugs love to connect, be handled, and be around people in general, whether they are young or old. They are wonderful therapy dogs because they are amiable and upbeat canines who can relate to everyone.
Additionally, a therapy dog needs to be confident, and pugs are confident. When their owners make noises like sneezing, they won’t respond in the same manner as other dog breeds. Pugs provide comfort to individuals in need since they exude confidence no matter where they go.
Focus and Adaptation
Those who have ADD or Alzheimer’s disease have to keep their minds active and engaged, but this is a challenge for them. As far as a pug is concerned, they need to ensure that they are paying attention to the dog and what is going on at that particular time. In this way, pugs help build up a positive vibe around them and assist the owner in maintaining a positive mindset.
Pugs are adaptable dogs that can easily live just about anywhere. They are typical happy-going dogs that relish the company of their owner irrespective of the place or location. It is also important to note that they are adaptable and do not necessarily have to live in large houses or houses alone but can live in apartments and smaller houses.
So they always stay focused and right by your side to give you the proper attention whenever you need them to. People living alone should choose pugs as they are the best therapy dogs who love being at your side at all times, giving you love and care.
Pugs are also considered good first-time dogs because they are not hostile and unfriendly like some other breeds. That is exactly why they might also be one of the most widespread breeds nowadays!
They are Smart
As therapy dogs, pugs are very intelligent canines that are designed to know when you need them. Pugs will come to give you affection and attention if you have a handicap or emotional problems. You may console yourself by caressing and conversing with them.
Pugs may also be a goofy breed, so if you have one in your house as a therapy dog, you will laugh a lot. Additionally, they are excellent at understanding their limits, what is expected of them in the home, and what is and is not acceptable.
Conclusion
As you can see, while pugs might not always be the first pick for therapy dogs, they are capable of taking on the role. When their owners need encouragement, these intelligent, affectionate, and gregarious canines help them stay alert, focused, and positive.
For people who require a therapy dog, both young and elderly can benefit greatly from having a pug. They can obey the orders needed of therapy dogs and do well while walking on a leash. Pugs are kind and patient as well. Pugs are devoted to their owners and want to be caressed, petted, and given attention.
In return, they will return the favor. Pugs are a great option if you’re searching for a therapy dog because they can easily satisfy all of the standards and will make your house seem cozy and loving.
