As iconic dog faces go, the pug is incredibly well known, but so are several other breeds. Are pugs good family dogs? Are they aggressive? Most importantly, do pugs do well with kids, other pets, and being in a home? No one wants a wild, unmanageable dog, and some breeds are known for having an excess of energy. This can lead to destructive behavior. Meanwhile, other breeds end to be very solitary, preferring one person and fighting with other animals. Though good training will help any dog, some living situations and dogs simply aren’t a good fit. Pugs are small and friendly. Moreover, they lack the crazy energy levels of herding breeds. After years of raising pets, I have learned a lot about breeds large and small. I will share what I know about pugs so you know whether they’ll make a good family pet for you.
Are pugs good family dogs? Pugs are good family dogs. This breed is great with children and other pets, so they are suitable for any family. Additionally, pugs only have moderate exercise requirements, and they are small. As a result, pugs are easy to feed, and they don’t have the energy level that makes some breeds difficult to manage.
Are Pugs Aggressive in General
Any improperly socialized dog can become aggressive. Although pugs are good family dogs, you must put in the time, love, and effort to help them grow into their best selves. Mostly, pugs are lovey types who want to go everywhere and do everything with you.
Smaller dog breeds tend to be more fearful and aggressive according to a behavioral report by the Applied Animal Behavior Science, but pugs don’t tend to have it in them ‘by nature.’ If you are caring and gentle with your pet, they will return the favor, but pugs thrive on joy. Play with your pug and set firm limits with them.
These dogs respond well to any positive reinforcement, but they are straightforward to train with food. Do not train via negatives like yelling. Instead, always opt to reinforce the good behaviors. It is always easier if you get them as puppies, but old dogs do learn new tricks if you have the patience to teach.
When pugs do become aggressive, it is always a fear response. They may bark, lunge or even nip. It is rare for this sweet breed to do any real damage, but a frightened pug can be the aggressor if they feel threatened.
Pugs can also growl. While it doesn’t have the same impact as a big barrel-chested dog’s growl, it is still important to pay attention to your pet’s mood and attitude. If they bare their teeth or otherwise take on an aggressive posture, something is wrong.
It is also worth noting that pugs aren’t known for being ‘biters.’ Their short faces are not set up for this form of self-defense. No one wants a dog that tries to hurt them, but pugs are less capable of it than most canines with elongated muzzles.
Are Pugs OK With Kids
Pugs love (almost) everything. Another great reason why pugs are such good family dogs is that they are easygoing. You can trust a pug around cats and other pets, and you can certainly have them around kids. In fact, they love children.
Despite their small size, pugs are not delicate little doggies. The small yet sturdy build allows your pug to roughhouse, tumble, and play much more than you might expect. Plus, those small jaws mean there’s relatively little risk of accidental bites while goofing around.
The shape of your pug’s face means they have to work harder to get anything in their mouths. These friendly dogs will rarely nip unless it’s at a treat or toy.
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Reasons Why Pugs Are Perfect For Families
Every dog, like every human, is individual. Pugs are good family dogs, arguably perfect for any home. The list below includes the top eight reasons why your family should choose a pug.
- Pugs Are Kid and Pet Safe- Since they are not as easily damaged as some toy breeds, they can play, but they also know how to be calm. You will rarely, if ever, see an aggressive pug, and they are superb companions for everyone in the house. Moreover, pugs were not bred to hunt but rather as companions for royalty in China. As such, they don’t have the same instinct to chase other small pets that a hunting dog might come simply by nature.
- Pugs are Friendly and Loving- A pug just wants to follow where their family leads, get belly rubs, play, and cuddle. If you want an affectionate dog, these are the ideal breed.
- Pugs are Smarter Than They Look- With all those wrinkles, and the short face, pugs may not look like the Einsteins of the dog world. However, pugs are smarter than you think and can even be taught tricks.
- Pugs are Fast Learners- All those brains packed into your tiny pugs’ head means they also pick things up very quickly. Not all smart dogs learn fast, but Pugs are easy to train, and you’ll spend less time on it than you would with a dopey doggy.
- Pugs are Low Maintenance- All dogs need TLC, but pugs don’t need a whole lot of extra steps to stay healthy. Just remember to wash and dry those cute wrinkles.
- Pugs have Little to No Bite Risk- A short face means pugs need easy to chew food. People and other pets are not exactly easy to nibble on. Your pet is not built for bite strength, and they don’t tend to get too nippy.
- Pugs have Moderate Exercise Needs- Pugs love to play, and a small bladder means they need to go out and pee whenever they are ready. However, this is not a breed that needs to run all day to be happy.
- Pugs Bark Less – Pugs are not a ‘mouthy’ breed. While these dogs can bark and growl, they don’t default to yapping and yowling like some breeds. Doubtless, this has to do with their royal heritage.
Reasons Why Pugs are Not a Good Idea For a Family
Pugs are good family dogs, but they aren’t right for every family. Any breed has its issues to consider. If you’re on the fence about getting a pug, it is important to consider the downsides as well. Here are some reasons why you might not want a pug.
- Health Issues- Pugs have health problems related to being short-faced little dogs. They can have weight and breathing complications.
- Not a Guard Dog- Being small and not a good biter, pugs make bad guard dogs. They don’t bark a lot, so if you want an early warning system for your home and a companion who gives you ‘scary dog’ privilege while you’re out walking, don’t pick a pug.
- Lots of Shedding- You certainly won’t have as much fur in your home as you would with large, long-haired dogs, but pugs shed a lot.
- Loafing Around- Pugs love naps and can sleep up to fourteen hours per day. It would be best if you kept them active so they will stay healthy.
- Smart Dogs Can Be Stubborn- With a good brain comes firm opinions. Pugs can be quite stubborn when they want something or refuse it.
- Food Motivated- Pugs love snacks, perhaps a little too much. These clever dogs will eat almost anything if you give them a chance.
- Pugs Dislike Heat- Do you live somewhere warm? Small and chubby, pugs don’t do great in the heat.
- Too Much Love- A dog who follows you around the house isn’t the best companion for everyone. For certain individuals, this level of involvement with a pet can seem smothering and invasive. Don’t get a pug if you need your space.
Are Pugs High Maintenance as a Dog Breed
Some dog breeds are incredibly high maintenance, requiring daily brushing and hours of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy. Part of the reason pugs are good family dogs is that they are low maintenance. Though they require baths and need love and walks, they aren’t high-strung or extra needy.
One thing first-time dog owners can underestimate severely is how loud some dogs are. Big dogs have big voices while small dogs can become very high-pitched and yappy. Huskies will talk and howl often, but pugs aren’t big barkers. They have a voice, and will use it, but not usually to excess.
There is a persistent myth that pugs don’t shed. This is untrue, and your new pup will still need grooming. Luckily, since they have short hair you won’t find drifts of fur like you might with a fluffier dog. Still, pugs shed much more than some new pet owners expect.
As ‘chill’ dogs go, you can’t go wrong with a pug. Pugs like face-time with their family and enjoy long pets and walks around the block. Like all canines, they need their humans’ love and affection to be happy, but they will hang out and watch TV as well.
It’s important to know that pugs are smart, and they get overly attached to their people. A pug will follow you around the house like a baby duck. They can be a little invasive at times, but it’s because they want to be with you.
Challenge your pug with a snuffle mat for food and low-to-the-ground obstacles, toys, and puzzles. With their bright minds, you can teach a pug lots of tricks. Behind those sweet silly faces lies an active mind. Fortunately, they aren’t as high maintenance as some brainy breeds like collies and golden retrievers.
Despite their looks, pugs aren’t total couch potatoes. These canine companions love to play. A healthy pug needs to go out a lot because they have a small bladder, and they need their walks regardless of the short legs.
In short, a pug is a perfect blend of active, interactive, and relaxed. These pets will play with the kids, but they also know how to settle down and enjoy a quiet evening. Mostly, a pug just wants someone to love all the time.
Are Pugs Generally a Healthy Breed of Dog
Pugs are generally a healthy breed, and they are good family pets. A well-socialized pug is good with pets and people, but they are also not overly prone to anxiety. You can expect most pugs to live for around thirteen to seventeen years.
It is vital to feed your pug breed and size-appropriate foods. It is also important to make sure your new pet sees the vet regularly so they can live a long and healthy life. Shots and other routine care are often all your dog will need. However, there are some potential issues with this breed.
Because pugs are bred for their physical features, you need to make sure you get your dog from a reputable source. Overbreeding via incest within a family to fix traits is common in dog breeding. Sadly, this practice will also fix undesirable traits such as health conditions if the dog breeder isn’t scrupulous.
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Pug Health Concerns
Although most pugs are healthy and happy little dogs, there are a few concerns to keep our eyes out for. Some are preventable with basic steps like good care, but others are a part of being a small, wrinkly-skinned dog breed with a short face.
A common issue for pugs is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). You’ll find this in members of most short-faced breeds, but it is far from universal. The adorable short face can be too small, and this means breathing problems for your pet. Still, with proper care and the right amounts of slower exercise like walks, your dog will still live a full life.
Baths are especially important to this breed. The skin folds that give your pup their adorable wrinkly look can harbor bacteria and get infections and other problems if not cleaned and dried regularly. Moreover, their short legs can have problems in the joints.
Finally, these chubby little bundles of joy are prone to hyperthyroidism. A fat dog may look sweet, but it’s a serious health concern. Ensure that you don’t overfeed treats and never give dogs sugar. See your vet if they have excess weight gain.
Every breed of dog comes with its own unique challenges, and pugs are no different. With good health care, a little luck, and a loving owner who pays attention, pugs will live full and long lives.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a family dog, choose a pug without concern. Although this unique breed has some common health issues for its body style, they are generally healthy little dogs. Most importantly, they won’t tear apart your home with excess energy, and they are great with kids and other pets.
Since they are small, pugs don’t eat as much as large breeds, making them easy to feed. Better still, pugs are only moderate energy canines, so they are fine with a little less walking than energetic breeds. When you want a dog who is good in almost any situation, a pug is ideal. Their only disadvantages are short legs and short faces, so they may need minor adaptations like shorter stairs to climb.
Pugs are all-around great dogs with sweet personalities. Your family will love having one of these friendly little companions at home.
