Pug Breed Magazine - Showsight

T oday, the Pug is renowned as a superb companion. He is often portrayed in print media, on television and in film as a happy loving member of the family which a true depiction of the breed. With a background typical of an Orien- tal breed, the Pug has been loved and adored through centuries and today his popularity is at an all time high. In 2014, 203 Pugs received their AKC Championships; 71 went on to Grand Champion status. In the Obedience ring, Pugs made their presence known as well: ten Pugs attained their CD and three their CDX! Th e Pug was o ffi - cially recognized by AKC in 1885; in 2014 Pugs were ranked #32 in popularity out of 178 breeds and varieties—although for Pug fanciers he will always be #1. Th e Pug loves his family but also is friendly with others, especially babies. His pink tongue is always ready to give kisses and he loves cuddles. Not the most easily trained, many have been very successful in obedience and as therapy dogs. Th is is a breed meant only for compan- ionship. He does not hunt, track, retrieve point or herd. He enjoys a rough tumble and a quiet snooze on the couch with his person. He is protective of his turf and will alert you to strangers approaching. As a family pet he usually attaches him- self to the person feeding him, but will share his a ff ections. Pugs are very good eaters and one must be careful of overfeed- ing as it is hard to resist those great big black, pleading eyes. Perhaps the worst thing that could hap- pen to a Pug is to be ignored. Th ey enjoy routine and once they understand yours they will want to participate on every level. Th ey are highly attuned to your moods and also will comfort you in times of sadness. Most Pugs in the classes are shown by their owners and often their breeders. Th ey are little clowns and will not always stand perfectly on the table. Do not expect them to because that bubbling personality is a large part of their charm. Th ey are very sensitive to their eyes being covered dur- ing a table exam and are especially unhap- py with a heavy-handed mouth exam. A slightly undershot bite can be determined by a visual exam or a light touch outside the mouth. Th e biggest complaint exhibi- tors have is bite exam and having a heavy hand on these toy dogs. Th e Pug is the largest dog in the Toy group—and his many admirers will argue he also has the largest heart.

by CHARLOTTE PATTERSON

S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , M AY 2015 • 187

Powered by